Now in its 12th year, the programme caters for young players from Under-8 to U-11 to help showcase their skills in an environment similar to some of the world's most technical players.
Four venues are being used - Corduff in Dublin 15, Applewood in Swords, Castlelands in Balbriggan, and Gormanston Park - and the programme is run in conjunction with Fingal County Council’s sports department and community partner Swords Pavilions. It ensures that young players will not go weeks without playing football due to pitches being unplayable. There is also the well-known technical and decision making aspects of futsal which ensures there are goals and skills a plenty.
Commenting on this year’s Futsal programme Paul Keogh, FAI/FCC Development Officer said: "We are starting to feel a genuine interest and growth in futsal from grassroots coaches in Ireland. It has taken a number of years but coaches are now really embracing futsal as a tool to aid players' development and enjoyment of the game.
"It was fantastic to have Stephen Kenny present and his attacking philosophy sits very well with futsal, which is all about freedom of expression and fearless play. Stephen spoke very favourably of futsal and it’s potential in Ireland.
"My colleagues Sharon Boyle, Jamie Wilson and Paul Breen were delighted with the number of clubs present at the launch night and we are all looking forward to it kicking off on the 11th January. Support from Swords Pavilions once again is very welcomed and with their support we will again be linking this year’s futsal to our healthy eating initiative ‘make nutrition your goal’."
Fingal County Council Senior Sports officer Niall McGuirk said: "Futsal is a means for the sports department in Fingal to assist with participation levels and physical activity. Using sport for social and physical wellbeing is of paramount importance and having the added angle of nutritional education once again this year is fantastic.
"Changing habits is a challenge but from evidence from last year this programme really did succeed and it was great to see Swords Pavilions being acknowledged for their support at the recent Fingal Chamber awards."
Ireland U-21 boss Kenny stated: "I was really encouraged by the possibilities of futsal in terms of player development. The essence of attacking play combined with quick decision-making is an approach I fully concur with. Some of the most talented players in the world have been exposed to futsal in their youth which can only aid our future players."