Extract from a larger article published by the Northern Weekly


Go and play inside

by Kathryn Kernohan

The thought of attending sport training at a muddy oval in the grips of winter holds little appeal for many Melburnians. It’s no wonder the popularity of indoor sports has skyrocketed, but which one is right for you? Check out our pick of the top indoor sport options and get active.

SOCCER

This is one of the world’s most popular indoor sports; here in Melbourne it’s futsal (a variation on the world game) that is more widely played. Futsal is a five-a-side game played with a ball slightly smaller than a standard soccer ball on a hard court surface. There’s an emphasis on skill and creativity, as well as ball control and intricate passing in tight spaces.

Organisations such as Futsal For Life and Aussie Indoor Sports run social competitions (men’s, women’s and mixed) and the latter also runs junior competitions.

Aussie Indoor Sports’ George Gemetzis says futsal is played by up to 120,000 people across the country. ‘‘It’s played at a high intensity, so it is a great way to keep fit and socialise at the same time,’’ he says. ‘‘Futsal is the excitement of soccer in an all-weather venue.’’




Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com