Futsal East

FUTSAL EAST provides an environment for players and teams to improve their ball skills while having a ton of fun. Here are answers to some common questions.

Q: What do I wear?

A: Shinguards are required. Soccer cleats are the preferred shoe on the St. Croix Valley Rec Center’s Field Turf, but indoor soccer shoes and tennis shoes will work. Pinneys will be provided for all teams that do not have uniforms.

Q: Can parents watch?

A: Absolutely! There are four games going on at one time, so there may not be much room, but parents are always invited to cheer on their children!

Q: When are the games?

A: Games are played on Fridays, with games starting at 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, or 8pm.

Q: How long are the games?

A: Each game consists of two, 25-minute halves, with a five-minute half-time. Games start at 5 minutes after the hour and end promptly on the hour.

Q: Is my team guaranteed a spot if we register by the deadline?

A: No. We have room for 32 teams in each “season,” and leagues typically fill before the deadline. When we’re full, we’re full.

Q: How is futsal different from soccer?

A: Your players will find it’s a very fast game, requiring (and developing) strong foot skills and quick decision-making. Even though games are played on small fields, no one gets to rest while they’re playing. The futsal ball is smaller and heavier than a soccer ball, so it stays on the ground much more. Also, futsal is a no-contact sport. Players will obviously come in contact with each other when they play 50/50 balls, but we do not want players leading with their shoulders, and of course slide tackles, pushes and raised elbows will not be tolerated.

Q: How do we substitute? What about throw-ins? What about the other rules? Are there referees?

A: Substitutions can be made at any time, and changes are made on the fly, like hockey. A player cannot enter the field until another player leaves the field. There are no throw-ins in futsal. All re-starts are done by kicking the ball back into play, except for goal kicks, which are thrown back into play by the keeper. Don’t worry about the rules, as all games are refereed, and referees are instructed to teach as they referee the early games. Click the Rules tab for more complete rules.

Q: My team is really bad/good. Will we be competitive?

A: There is a wide range of skill levels, particularly at the younger ages. Within each age group, we divide teams into stronger and weaker leagues. In addition, a team trailing by five goals gets to add a player to the field.

Q: Can I register a co-ed team?

A: Absolutely! Co-ed teams are welcome and will be placed accordingly. Also, strong girls teams can ask to be placed with boys teams at their skill level. FUTSAL EAST is all about fun and development, and we will make accommodations to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

Q: How do I manage/coach a team?

A: The coach/manager is responsible for three things: (1) Register the team and pay the team fee. To register, you need to submit the team registration form and an individual liability form for each player. (2) Ensure you have enough players at each game. (3) Ensure either you or another adult is on the sideline at each game, supervising substitutions and supporting your players.

Q: But I don’t know how to coach!

A: A great soccer mind once said, “The game is the best teacher.” In other words, the best way to figure it out is to simply let them play the game. We hope FUTSAL EAST fosters an environment where parents, coaches and players put the fun of the game first and foremost, and let the kids play and enjoy the game.

Q: So, who’s in charge here?

A: FUTSAL EAST is not affiliated with any soccer club or community center. The concept was developed by soccer parents from the eastern suburbs who sought a fun training opportunity for their kids. Someone will always be on site to answer questions.