Futsal is the only form of ‘indoor football’ or ‘five-a-side’ that is officially approved by FIFA and New Zealand Football. The name “Futsal” comes from the merging of the Spanish/Portuguese words for football (Futbol or Futebol) and the French or Spanish word for “Indoor” (Salon or Sala).

Age to start:

Futsal is gradually becoming widely established in NZ. You can find out more about local teams at NZ Football.

Futsal: rules of the game:

The basic rules of futsal are;

• Typically a futsal game is played on a rectangular pitch with a goal area at each end.
• A game is played between two teams each consisting of 5 players with one of those players being the designated goal keeper.
• The aim of the game is to score a goal by kicking or heading the ball into the goal that is guarded by the opposing team’s goal keeper.
• The team that has scored the most goals at the end of the game is the victor.

Find the full list of the rules of futsal.

Futsal: suitability:

The sport of futsal is suitable for boys and girls. Young children are able to develop early motor skills combined with important social skills in a fun and safe environment. Children are able to participate in modified versions of the sport that cater for the age and skill level of the child.

Futsal is similar to soccer in that it is a low contact sport so the risk of serious injury is low. Children are able to participate and build fitness in an enjoyable and safe environment.

Sign up dates:

Futsal is played as a summer season with most clubs conducting a registration period from late August to early September. Contact your local futsal club for specific details as to how to register to play futsal.

Many local clubs run futsal competitions all year round. Contact your local club for further information regarding futsal season and registration periods.

Futsal sporting tips:

To successfully participate in futsal you require;

• Aerobic fitness
• Excellent ball skills
• Good vision
• The ability to work well in a team