Sporting Fingal players Kevin Dawson, Conan Byrne and Ronan Finn made the trip with the FAI Ford Cup trophy to Gormanston School last weekend for the NDSL/Drogheda schoolboy/girl Futsal tournament.
Saturday just gone was the last of three successive weekly events at the Indoor venue involving 60 teams from Under-7s to Under-9s.
Due to recent weather conditions, one of the few sports to beat the cold snap was the novel indoor game, allowing kids get some valuable football practice in while others were idle.
Futsal the official 5-a-side version of football produced plenty of goals, skills and smiles with the winners being all those that took part.
The module has been specifically set up to get away from the often over-competitive nature of small sided games.
All teams who registered for the series played two matches per week where the emphasis was on skill development rather than three points.
The module, which is backed by the FAI Grassroots department, is being rolled out by three FAI Development officers, namely Paul Keogh (FAI/Fingal County Council), Mick Pender (FAI/Fingal County Council) and former Shelbourne legend Mick Neville (FAI/Louth County Council) while it also has the backing of the local councils Fingal and Louth.
Development officer Paul Keogh said he was delighted with the way the programme, stating:
“The benefits of the introduction of futsal into the playing calendar are there for all to see.
“No weather issues, comfortable surroundings, and more touches for the boys and girls. The fact there was no ‘three points’ at stake also added to a better skill learning environment.
“What was really positive was the feedback from the parents, coaches and players. This is the second year the NDSL have supported this venture and it is also great to have added the Drogheda league”
Derek O’Neill, who introduced to concept of Futsal to Ireland ten years ago and now FAI National Futsal co-ordinator, endorsed the initiative.
He said: “It’s a fantastic to have children as young as six and seven playing this skilful part of football, particularly in the cold of winter when so many pitches fall foul to conditions.
“We are delighted with the feedback we have received and believe this type of game is going to have huge benefits for Irish youngsters. For those interested and to really appreciate the module I would welcome them to come to Gormanston and see it for themselves.”
Tony Gains, Hon Secretary of the NDSL, gave it the thumbs-up by saying. "We as a
league are thrilled that this programme has been so well received by children, parents and coaches. The priority in the NDSL is to provide football for our kids and this is a terrific environment in which they can learn and develop their skills in an enjoyable setting."
Pictured above at the NDSL/Drogheda Futsal tournament in Gormanstown last Saturday are Ashbourne's Under-9 team and coaches with FAI Ford Cup trophy along with Sporting Fingal players (l-r) Kevin Dawson, Conan Byrne and Ronan Finn.