With Head Coach Chris away in Bristol supporting the ladies team, today’s sessions were led by coaches Paul, Michael and Tyler. This was no small task considering it was the first session back after the half term break, when players always return eager for their futsal fix.

Following recent matches in Leeds across the various age groups, it was clear that some core futsal fundamentals needed revisiting. A key focus was ball control, as several players had slipped back into traditional football techniques by using the side of the foot rather than the sole. In futsal this can allow opponents to press quickly or disrupt the next pass.

The session focused on high repetition passing and receiving, encouraging players to control the ball with the sole, move immediately after passing, and position their bodies to face the direction they wished to travel when receiving possession. Although the session started a little slowly as players shook off the rust from the break, it finished with some excellent quality futsal. Players fully embraced the techniques and the ball was moving sharply around the court by the end.

A huge well done to coaches Michael and Tyler. It looks like Coach Chris might be able to enjoy a few more Sundays off!

First Hour – Iris W – She had an excellent week at Futsal. She listened carefully throughout the session and showed real enthusiasm in everything she took on. Her passing and control were solid, and despite her diminutive size she gives it everything in the match at the end all while holding high what these sessions should be all about, Fun!! Incredible Iris!

Second Hour – Miesha D – High speed, high octane, power way beyond her size, Meesha shone within a very very strong group today. Great passing, electric pace and some wonderful finishes showed that this relative newbie to Bootham has a great future ahead of her which we are excited to be part of! Magnificent Meesha!

Third Hour – Alexis D – It’s not often that you see the goals move when the ball hits the net, apart from in Batley, but everything that Alexis hit today was an absolute rocket! Mix that together with some great skills, excellent close control and 100% in everything that we asked of her and you’ve got a great all-round player on your hands. One for the ladies in the future? Astonishing Alexis!

When Chris and Suzy founded Bootham Futsal Club nine years ago, they had dreams. Not just of building teams or winning matches, but of creating opportunities. At the heart of those dreams was one powerful thought. Could a Bootham player one day pull on the famous Three Lionesses shirt and represent England? At the time, it felt like a distant ambition. Today, it feels closer than ever.

With the introduction of the England Under 19 and Under 17 national squads, Bootham now proudly has four players on that pathway. Eleanor and Lacey representing the Under 17s, and Erin and Heather wearing the badge at Under 19 level. Seeing players from our own sessions step onto the international stage is something that fills the entire club with immense pride.

Representing your country is never given. It is earned through countless hours of effort when nobody is watching. Early arrivals to training. Staying behind to practise just one more repetition. Listening, learning, overcoming setbacks and showing the resilience to keep improving every single day. These players inspire those around them because of their commitment, their belief and their love for the game. Whether it is these four players, or one of the younger athletes now beginning their own journey at Bootham, only time will tell who might make that final, incredible step to senior international futsal.

But one thing is certain. If that day comes, the Bootham family will be there with enormous pride and smiles that say everything words cannot. For the first time, thanks to the growth of England Futsal, the dream feels real. And honestly, we cannot wait to see where this journey leads.