With no matches this week, we returned to three hours of coaching. It was great to have all the players back in York, training hard, showing real focus, and making the most of the extra time together as a group.

This week we focused on creating space by using a set of gates on the court. The court was laid out with four gates, and when a team was in possession, any player could run through one of the gates at any time. An opposition player then had to follow them through the same gate, briefly removing a defender from play and creating space on the court.

At first, the players were a little hesitant to use the gates, but as the session progressed we saw teams in possession become much more confident. Players began running through different gates at the same time, effectively emptying the court of defenders, which was great to see. Sessions like this help reinforce the importance of constant movement, showing players that if you stand still, you are very easy to mark.

First Hour – Ania G – She may be one of the smallest players, but Ania’s technique is outstanding and she shows absolutely no fear when it comes to expressing herself on the ball. She has some brilliant tricks, plays with confidence, and does everything with a huge smile on her face. Top job, Ania, never change. We love the way you play!

Second Hour – Lily N – When we talk about players who never stop running, Lily is the perfect example. She worked tirelessly all over the court today, never slowing down and never once complaining, no matter how hard or demanding it became. Her energy seems endless, and her commitment is outstanding. Top job, Lily!

Third Hour – Imogen B – Another masterclass from a player who is quickly establishing herself as one of the best in the club. Imogen learns rapidly, takes on instructions, and consistently puts them into practice, highlighting just what an exciting prospect she is. She is physical, fast, and has a real eye for goal, and she’s certainly one the senior players are watching very closely.

When new players join a sporting club, they often face obstacles before we see their true character. They may not have any friends at the club, may not recognise players from previous matches, or may simply be shy. Creating the right environment is crucial if we want every player to achieve their full potential.

At Bootham Futsal Club, we pride ourselves on the following core values:

1. Winning is not the priority
   Yes, winning is nice, but we place no pressure or emphasis on results. Development always comes first.
2. Every player is an individual
   We never treat players the same. Everyone is different, and each player deserves to be supported in the way that suits them best.
3. Development through opportunity
   We give players the freedom to try, fail, and try again, both in training and in matches, because that is how real learning happens.
4. Strong engagement with parents
   We work closely with parents to understand what their daughter is like, what she enjoys, and what she does not. Just as importantly, we make parents feel like a valued part of the club.
5. Fun, fun, and more fun!
   Players learn more when they are smiling and laughing. We make sessions enjoyable, remove pressure, and let learning happen naturally.

When you really think about it, it is simple. Yet so many parents tell us how different we are from their grassroots football clubs, and honestly, I am not sure why. We have had success both on and off the court, but for me the biggest success story is seeing the girls come back week after week. That tells us everything we need to know. We must be doing something right.

A few images from today: