Futsal FAQ
1. What is Futsal?
Futsal is a fast paced, dynamic 5-a-side version of football for both male and female players. It is the only 5-a-side version of football officially recognised by FIFA, and is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Futsal is played on a smaller, hard-court surface and usually indoors, making it the perfect sport for all weather conditions. Due to the smaller court size, all players are constantly involved and there is never a dull moment, as defence transforms to attack in a split second. The small court size also helps players develop close control, quick decision making and speed and agility. There are some handy modifications in Futsal, including a smaller, low-rebound ball which aides control and improves striking technique. The goals are also smaller, and players wear rubber soled shoes to aid their agility and speed.
2. What Are The Rules?
Futsal at The Centre is played according to the following Competition Rules & Regulations
Official FIFA Laws of the Game – click the link below
3. Hot Weather Policy
Hot Weather Policy
Being indoors, competitions run regardless of weather conditions. In the hot summer months we encourage participants to drink plenty of water & remain well hydrated.
For Coaches/Managers – it may be beneficial to substitute your players more frequently than usual.
If deemed appropriate, we will extend the half time break.
As usual, parents know their children & how they best cope in unusual weather conditions. Please use your discretion & monitor your child & their friends.
4. When Would I Play? What Comps Do You Offer?
Games are played once a week, midweek at The Centre. The day depends upon the age group/division being played.
Check the leagues for more information.
5. Div 1 or Div 2? What is the difference?
Competitive Division 1 comps are offered for ladies, men and boys (over 12yrs). They are designed for strong, fast, competitive players looking to build or maintain their skills and strength during the Summer. These games are longer (2 x 20min halves) and played on bigger (+33%), specialist Futsal courts like Premier League games.
Division 2 & 3 comps are offered for ladies, men, boys, girls & mixed teams. They are played on standard Futsal courts, newly refurbished with the latest in international sports flooring. Whilst still competitive, they are targeted at players who are looking for a good game with more touches on the ball (given the smaller space) in a friendly, social environment.
Check the Costs/Fees for price differences.
6. When/How Do I Join?
Registrations for our competitions are taken on a team basis. So get a group of your friends, work colleagues or team mates together and make a team.
Futsal is 5-a-side (incl a goalie) but most teams register 6 or 7 players to allow for substitutes. Div 1 teams (see Comps) – 8 or 9 players is recommended.
Individuals may leave contact & experience details at The Centre. Every effort will be made to place all players in teams with vacancies. However, no guarantees are given.
When you have your group together, click the Registration button for step-by-step instructions to register your Team. Then your team mates can register themselves as players into your team.
7. What Are The Fees/Costs?
Fees are twofold:
- Registration/insurance is paid per player when registering. Paid annually in August for the Futsal year starting Sept. Paid either at the Centre or online.
- Game fees are charged per team, per comp and are due prior to play in Week 1. Is a flat fee regardless of how many players in your team. Paid at the Centre or online.
Note: Teams will also require a uniform – simply matching shorts & shirts (numbered)
8. What Do I Wear?
Players may wear regular joggers (or preferably indoor football shoes) with shin pads and matching long football-style socks. Players must wear shin pads and socks must completely cover shin pads. Uniforms are mandatory but may simply be matching shirts and shorts. However, shirts must be numbered. We recommend our partner Elite Sports for numbering should you choose this option.
9. Insurance for Futsal Players - What does it Cover & How Do I Claim?
Follow the link below for info & to print Claim Forms from the Football NSW (Futsal) Insurance website.
10. How do I Become a Futsal Referee?
The Futsal season starts in September and runs through to March each year. All prospective referees must do an official course to be accredited. Then are required to do a refresher course each year. There is an annual registration fee (paid to NSW Referees Assn) for all referees.
Courses usually happen at the beginning of the season. During that time there are lots of games (especially juniors) for younger referees to learn their craft and gain confidence. However, during the outdoor football season, Futsal games dwindle significantly so there are only senior games to officiate.
Course are listed on NSW Futsal Referees website is http://nswfra.com.au/ Once you are accredited and registered as a referee you can be appointed to games locally. Payments are usually made in cash after each shift and vary depending upon age/length of each game (POA).
For more information contact our Futsal Referees Appointments Officer at appdural@nswfra.com.au
