2008 Woodie Awards
Futsal Kicking Up on the North Coast
Soccer, minus sliding in the sludge
Matt Drange
Issue date: 2/6/08 Section: Sports
For individuals who enjoy the excitement of soccer but not getting soaked, Futsal, a new variation of indoor soccer, might be a great idea.
Futsal, now being offered at multiple locations around Humboldt County, is a variation of indoor soccer that features a low-bounce ball in a 5-on-5 game. It is played within the boundaries of a standard basketball court and presents competitors with opportunities to improve their fundamental skills. It has been around in Samoa for the last few years, but is also starting to pop up in locations such as Scotia.
This year, the season begins Feb. 23.
Readers may have heard of something similar to Futsal through the Humboldt State University intramural program, which offers five different indoor soccer leagues. Jan Henry, who is in charge of intramural sign-ups, believes that Humboldt State has enough indoor soccer leagues already. "It doesn't seem like there is a need right now. Most students seem to be accommodated with what we have to offer," she said when asked about the possibility of Futsal coming to Humboldt State.
The games prove to be much more fast-paced than a soccer match, and at the same time retain the excitement of playing the game. There are many age groups that comprise a series of leagues, which range from 4- to 6-year-olds all the way through adults.
There is also support for the notion that soccer players who are already playing would benefit from trying Futsal. Humboldt State men's and women's soccer head coach Andy Cumbo recommends Futsal for any soccer player. "I think it's great. [Futsal] is more demanding as a sport; it forces the player to be more skilled and creates more touches. The more opportunity to play the sport, the better," he said when asked about the idea of Futsal as a class or an intramural.
[Eliz. recommends as SIDE BAR:]
Individuals interested in joining a Futsal league can simply go online and download a registration form for free. Sessions begin Saturday, Feb. 23 and will run through Saturday, May 3. Team packets are available at Big 5 in Eureka, Jog'n Shop in Arcata, Solo Soccer and More in Eureka, and Thomas Home Center in McKinleyville. For additional information visit the Web site at www.insidesports.ws or call (707)839-6554.
Futsal, now being offered at multiple locations around Humboldt County, is a variation of indoor soccer that features a low-bounce ball in a 5-on-5 game. It is played within the boundaries of a standard basketball court and presents competitors with opportunities to improve their fundamental skills. It has been around in Samoa for the last few years, but is also starting to pop up in locations such as Scotia.
This year, the season begins Feb. 23.
Readers may have heard of something similar to Futsal through the Humboldt State University intramural program, which offers five different indoor soccer leagues. Jan Henry, who is in charge of intramural sign-ups, believes that Humboldt State has enough indoor soccer leagues already. "It doesn't seem like there is a need right now. Most students seem to be accommodated with what we have to offer," she said when asked about the possibility of Futsal coming to Humboldt State.
The games prove to be much more fast-paced than a soccer match, and at the same time retain the excitement of playing the game. There are many age groups that comprise a series of leagues, which range from 4- to 6-year-olds all the way through adults.
There is also support for the notion that soccer players who are already playing would benefit from trying Futsal. Humboldt State men's and women's soccer head coach Andy Cumbo recommends Futsal for any soccer player. "I think it's great. [Futsal] is more demanding as a sport; it forces the player to be more skilled and creates more touches. The more opportunity to play the sport, the better," he said when asked about the idea of Futsal as a class or an intramural.
[Eliz. recommends as SIDE BAR:]
Individuals interested in joining a Futsal league can simply go online and download a registration form for free. Sessions begin Saturday, Feb. 23 and will run through Saturday, May 3. Team packets are available at Big 5 in Eureka, Jog'n Shop in Arcata, Solo Soccer and More in Eureka, and Thomas Home Center in McKinleyville. For additional information visit the Web site at www.insidesports.ws or call (707)839-6554.
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