Futsal - a fast-growing sport

Very little information is given in the media on the local Futsal league set-up. This league is continually expanding and developing. It is increasing in popularity because it is a competition where friends can form a team and apply to take part.

There are four divisions in the Futsal competition. There are 11 teams in the First Division, which is played twice weekly at the Corradino Pavilion. Normally, a team from this division ends up playing in one of the European competitions and players from the national team are drawn mainly from this top league.

There are two sections made up of eight teams each in the Second and Third Divisions. The biggest number of teams is in the Fourth Division which is split into three sections.

Facilities are a problem as there is only one covered venue while the other matches, come rain or shine, are played on pitches which are open to the elements. This does restrict the development of players as they are unable to show all their skills on hard pitches.

The Malta FA is investing heavily in this sport and will continue to upgrade facilities and bring out the talents of the most promising players. The appointment of a national coach from the Czech Republic, Michael Striz, a couple of years ago and Malta's entry in the international field, ensured that our players will gain the necessary experience to compete.

Next February, the Maltese national team will be taking part in a preliminary tournament for the UEFA Futsal Championship. The teams in the group, besides Malta, are Albania, Georgia and Greece.

Another problem hampering the organisers of the Futsal league is that of referees.

The increasing number of matches calls for more officials. The MFA has launched a recruitment drive in this field and a course is planned for prospective referees. There is no need for Futsal referees to be conversant with the Laws of the Game for 11-a-side football.

Futsal has its own set of laws. Prospective candidates for referees may even be former players or young people who would like to achieve a sense of leadership. Eventually, a referee may even reach the FIFA list.

Malta presently has one FIFA Futsal referee in Franco Cachia. He takes up his international duties in January. Hard work and determination will see referees reach the top. Those interested in taking up Futsal refereeing should apply by sending an email to tom.restall@mfa.com.mt.