FUTSAL Jersey’s Under 17 squad headed to Madeira yesterday to take part in The Funchal International Futsal Competition.
Futsal is a fast-paced, small-sided version of football, played indoors with a smaller, heavier ball than in traditional 11-a-side football, rewarding close control and quick decision-making.
Cassidy has been working tirelessly to grow futsal as it’s own sport in Jersey and has largely succeeded. Multiple junior age groups train regularly at Beaulieu school, showcasing the increasing demand for the sport.
The tournament starts today and is running until the 9 July, showcasing some of the world’s best players in the Brazilian-inspired sport.
The under-17 age group have impressed Cassidy and, after turning down previous invitations to Madeira, Cassidy is confident his youngsters can compete at this level.
“We’ve been invited over for the last three seasons, but we just weren’t ready,” said the coach.”
“But our under-17s have shown really good signs over the last year and we thought if there’s a chance to get there this year, we’ll definitely go.”
Futsal is known for moment of brilliance and high skills. Born in the samba-lined streets of Rio De Janeiro it has honed the craft of many of the world’s most skilful players, including the likes of Brazilian legends Ronaldinho and Neymar.
It is played throughout South America but has been embraced more recently across Europe and Cassidy wants to continue promoting the sport and establish it in Jersey.
The notion of close control and decision-making resonates with Cassidy, as he believes it can have a positive impact when transitioning to eleven-a-side football.
“All of the academy players in South America play futsal up to the age of 12 and I’m now converted. I totally understand why, because if you get the basics right and you make the right decisions, most of the time it will have a positive impact.”
“We’re giving kids from the age of seven that information, and we’re seeing massive results from the younger players. We’re giving these lads some really good new habits and consistently doing the same things over and over again.”
Futsal is similar to basketball in the sense it is organised chaos on such a small pitch. It is notorious for providing an entertaining watch, with players keen to showcase their flair and skill.
Coach Cassidy is assured in his squad’s ability with the ball, continuing: “In possession we’re really, really strong and I think we’ll score goals. But in futsal you have to remain compact, it is all about clever movement as well as creating a block in defence.”
Cassidy has developed his U17 squad into a stellar futsal side, bringing confidence into the camp headed into the tournament.
“These boys are the best group we’ve got over here and we want to go and do ourselves proud. Regardless of results every player is going to come back better for it.”
“Better competition improves you as a team, and I’m sure there will be a few surprises in there. I’m confident we will cause some problems.”
Cassidy made it clear that the travelling squad are not the only team showing promise in the five-a-side discipline, adding: “We’re going to scope out for the U13s and U11s next year. We’ve got some really talented boys at that age too.”
“I think once we see the standard of the tournament, we’ll be waiting until we can go over again and compete at all age groups. The only way to learn and improve is taking us off the Island and competing against stronger opposition.”
“We need to educate ourselves and learn the hard way, maybe by losing some games, but by testing ourselves in the process. We’re well aware that we have to be super fit and really organised.”
Helping with the organisation of the squad is former England Futsal development lead Luis Melville. The decorated coach will undoubtedly bring plenty of expertise to help the team compete effectively against top-class opponents.
Cassidy is pleased to have Melville on board, adding: “We’ve got Luis coming over to help us with the matches. He’s going to run the games for us as he’s an expert and well known in the futsal world. He’s going to be a great addition and help the boys massively.”
The mix of coaching experience and raw talent stands Jersey’s finest showboaters in good stead ahead of their debut appearance on foreign soil.
Jersey’s first fixture is on Friday at 2pm, the games are available to stream here: https://youtube.com/@marketingfranciscofranco?si=DG7K-5ty9I27kwhe