FUTSAL

The Next Step in Player Development

Take your game to the next level with Futsal.



What Is Futsal?


  • Futsal is an indoor soccer game played with two teams of five players each, including a goalkeeper.
  • It's played on a hard court (like a basketball court) with a smaller, heavier ball that doesn't bounce as much as a regular soccer ball.
  • We offer 4 different programs for player development in Futsal.
  • Our wide range of programs offers something for players of every level, whether you're a recreation player or a national player! Open for players birth year: 2008-2019.   
  • Open to external players!


How Futsal Helps Develop Players


Year-Round Development – Especially in Winter

  • Break from Outdoor Soccer: An opportunity to do something around your outdoor soccer training or add another training a week.
  • Futsal as a Winter Solution: Many clubs now shift to indoor futsal during the winter months, ensuring uninterrupted development and consistent engagement.

Consistent Play and Fitness

  • No Weather Interruptions: Indoor futsal eliminates the risk of weather-related cancellations, allowing players to maintain their rhythm and fitness.
  • Regular Competition: Weekly games and training sessions keep players sharp and motivated throughout the year.

Comfortable and Enjoyable Environment

  • Indoor Facilities: Games are played in warm, dry, and well-lit environments, making the experience more enjoyable for players, coaches, and parents.
  • Positive Atmosphere: The fast-paced, high-energy nature of futsal keeps players engaged and excited to play.

Technical and Tactical Growth

  • More Touches, More Learning: The increased ball contact accelerates technical development.
  • Game Intelligence: Players learn to read the game better, anticipate opponents’ moves, and make smarter decisions under pressure.

Transferable Skills to Outdoor Soccer

  • Better First Touch: Players develop a soft, controlled first touch that translates well to the outdoor game.
  • Quick Passing and Movement: The speed of futsal enhances passing accuracy and off-the-ball movement, both crucial in 11-a-side soccer.
  • Confidence Under Pressure: Players become more composed in tight situations, a skill that’s invaluable on larger outdoor pitches.


Why Futsal?


More Ball Touches – 600% More Than Outdoor Soccer

  • Increased Interaction: With only five players per side and a smaller playing area, each player is involved more frequently. This leads to significantly more touches on the ball, which builds confidence and comfort in possession.
  • Accelerated Skill Development: The constant engagement allows players to refine their dribbling, passing, and shooting skills at a much faster rate than in traditional outdoor soccer. Futsal is widely recognized by FIFA as an integral part of player development.

Faster Decision-Making

  • High-Speed Environment: Futsal’s fast pace demands quick thinking. Players must assess situations and make decisions in seconds, improving their reaction time and game intelligence.
  • Tactical Awareness: The confined space and rapid transitions help players develop a deeper understanding of positioning, movement off the ball, and spatial awareness.

Improved Ball Control and Technique

  • Smaller, Heavier Ball: Futsal uses a size 3 ball with less bounce, encouraging players to use proper technique and control.
  • Tight Spaces: The limited space forces players to master close control, quick turns, and precise passing.

Creativity and Flair

  • Freedom to Express: The nature of the game encourages creativity. Players often try new moves, tricks, and combinations that they might not attempt in a traditional 11-a-side game.
  • 1v1 Situations: Frequent one-on-one scenarios help players develop confidence and the ability to beat defenders.


Where Did Futsal Originate?


Futsal was invented way back in 1930 in Uruguay, a country in South America. A teacher named Juan Carlos Ceriani wanted a version of soccer that people could play indoors when there weren't enough outdoor fields or when the weather was bad.


He also created a special, smaller, heavier ball that doesn't bounce as much, making it perfect for playing inside. Futsal became really popular, especially in Brazil, where many famous soccer players like Pelé learned their amazing skills by playing it when they were kids. The name "futsal" is just a short way of saying "indoor soccer."





OUR PROGRAMS

Join the Futsal Family!

Registration is now open for the 2025-26 season!

Frequently Asked Questions Q/A


  • What’s the difference between our Teams and our Developmental Trainings?

    TEAMS is a fall and winter training program.  Players must try-out for these teams.  We are looking for the best 16-24 players in the 2007-2015 age groups. Player's train together with the possibility of Regional and National Tournaments.


    DEVELOPMENTAL TRAINING is a 5-week training program created for players that enjoy playing futsal and want to stay busy in the winter and get ready for the spring season. This is also a great place for our younger players who didn’t make our Teams program but might want to play at a higher level in the future. We will have 2 sessions North and 2 sessions South.


  • Is Teams Program going to be a lot of travel?

    Not all players will participate in tournaments and if they do a tournament, most are local. If players do really well and advance, they could do a national tournament. 

  • Where are Teams practices?

    We bring everyone together at Charlotte Country Day School. 

  • How often do Teams practice?

    Practices are a minimum of 1-2 times a month. Our goal is to create trainings around players outdoor trainings. 

  • If I miss a practice, will I be able to make it up?

    Yes, we will have opportunities for extra opportunities.

  • Will outdoor soccer conflict?

    Most likely not. 99% of trainings and tournaments will work around the outdoor schedule.  Of course, players will be on many different outdoor teams and will have a few conflicts.

  • Can players from outside Charlotte Independence Play on Teams?

    Yes. Futsal programs are open to players from any club.

  • Will there be team fees?

    Yes, there could be team fee based on if your child’s team attends a tournament.  This cost could be tournament registration, coaches travel, and player card. 

  • Who will coach my players team?

    Players will be coached by Charlotte Independence Soccer Club staff. We will have a pool of coaches for each team. 

  • Possible tournament Dates so far?

    To be deteremind. 

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Futsal Contact Form

news FUTSAL


September 19, 2022
Listen as Director of Futsal & Camps Pat White, Assistant Director of Futsal Mary Rea, and Staff Member Emily McMillan discuss the future of the Futsal Program and upcoming opportunities.
By Tommy Turner January 30, 2022
3 players Selected to Youth National Futsal teams, Compete in Spain