| “What is with the special ball?” The futsal balls (the only ones sanctioned by FIFA for futsal, and the only ones used here at GFA) are specifically designed for futsal. Smaller in size, and with 30% less bounce than a traditional soccer balls, futsal balls are designed with the same core principle in mind that are the basis for futsal. An emphasis of skill and technique over physicality. The futsal ball forces the player’s actions rather than the ball’s bounce and momentum to propel it. This ultimately helps the player develop better footskills, quicker reflexes, a better control of the game and development of their soccer IQ. “What is with the special floor?” No more pieces of rubber in your shoe, no more wrinkles on the field, no more nasty rug burns. We at GFA realize the importance of the quality of the playing surface that your child/ team will be using. That is why we installed the state of the art indoor SnapsportsÒ flooring system with its ShocklockÒ and BouncebackÒ technology, specially designed to slid laterally, thus reducing the impact on athlete’s joints. This patented material also contains a dual stage vertical impact absorber, reducing athlete fatigue and injury. “Can a players use the walls in futsal?” No, and the reason is very simple. There are no boards/walls to play off of in traditional 11v11 outdoor soccer. Not being able to play the ball of the wall forces the player into the same mindset and decision making that is involved in traditional 11v11 outdoor soccer. Using touchlines like the traditional outdoor game, futsal forces the player to think 2 steps ahead with every action he/she takes. Not being able to smash the ball against the boards forces a player to take better care of possession, make decisions quickly, use their brains and abilities to get out of a situation, and put proper placement/ pace on their shots. “What equipment does a futsal player wear?” If your child plays outdoor soccer competitively, he/she most likely has all the equipment needed to play futsal. The only change is that at GFA players are to use a traditional indoor soccer shoe. For safety reasons “turfs” are not allowed at GFA. “Are their many blowouts?” Simply put no. Futsal was intrinsically designed with fair, competitive, fun play in mind. With our 30 minute games, and a running game clock; both teams are always in a game, and don’t have time to run up the score. Also, here at GFA, you will work with our league administrator, Salvatore Zito (sal@gostofutsal.com) to ensure that your team plays in a league/tournament that meets the specific level and goals of your team. “Is futsal safer than indoor soccer?” Much of the physical intimidation and forceful play that rears its ugly head in outdoor and turf soccer is not allowed in futsal. In futsal, skill and smart will always win out over power and strength. This mindset is backed from multiple avenues including: -the officially sanctioned FIFA rules and regulations (slide tackling is explicitly prohibited in futsal and at GFA) -the special futsal referee licensing courses -the focus that GFA pays to this particular issue. While novel and entertaining, the hockey like dasher boards, common in many indoor soccer are an all too frequent cause of injuries and concussions. This often happens when players smash the ball recklessly off the boards or when collisions occur in an attempt to get to the ball. Yes hockey players use them, but hockey players also wear pads and helmets. “My team/ child is very athletic and physical but lacks some soccer/futsal skills; is futsal good for him/her?” If this is true for your team, then futsal is something you should integrate into your training regimen immediately. Don’t be surprised if your team isn’t as dominant as usual, the first time you play at GFA. While based on traditional soccer, futsal has been known to have its own mindset. This is based on the specifics of the game and how they are designed to encourage technical and tactical development. Do not worry, In no time at all you will see a vast improvement not only in the skills demonstrated by your players but by their ability to integrate them into practical game situations. “How does futsal promote better technique?” Strong technique is the foundation of good futsal. Everything at GFA is designed to increase the technique and skill level of soccer players who walk through our doors. There are many reasons why it is proven that players who regularly play futsal are so successful at the outdoor game: -reduced pitch size and limited number makes sure every player is constantly involved and a factor in the game play - the lack of hockey style dasher boards forcing players to make quicker and better decisions. -the specially designed ball, built to reduce bounce and encourage the player’s touch -the inability to succeed via overpowering your opponent in this low contact game -an environment that encourages creativity, a natural love of the game, and most importantly fun! If you don’t believe us, maybe these guys can change your mind: "In futsal you need to think quick and play quick so it's easier for you when you move to normal football (outdoor soccer)." – Pele, Brazil national team, 1957-1971. 92 appearances/ 77 goals
"I came out of futsal and developed my skills in this way of football. I play the same way now (in the outdoor game) as I did on the futsal courts as a kid." – Denilson, Bazil national team, 1996-2003. 61 apperances/ 9 goals "When you come to play normal football (outdoor soccer) it's easier if you've come from a futsal background." – Rivelino, Brazil national team, 1965-1978. 92 appearances/ 26 goals
“Can you actual backup your claims?” Because we at GFA realize that you might need more convincing, we invite you to investigate the many resources that we have provided on our website. We provide a detailed list of all the teams that play futsal, here at GFA. Any of these coaches will surely testify on the benefits futsal has had for their team. We also have a section on our website dedicated to testimonials from many of our satisfied customers. While we try to provide the customer with the most credible information possible we realize that the product sells it self. We encourage our future customers to ask the players, coaches, and parents first hand what they think of futsal and GFA. If you do decide to visit our Totowa facility, let us know as we will set up a personalized meeting to go over your needs and how gusto futsal can meet them. “Ok, I’m interested and want to give it a try now.” |