Futsal set for step forward
Tuesday, February 14, 2006
Article summary
A distinguished lineup of guests will gather this morning for a packed day of activities at the second UEFA Futsal Conference in Las Rozas, Madrid.
Article body
Rapid growth
Each of UEFA's 52 member associations will be represented at the Spanish Football Federation's modern headquarters for the conference run in tandem with UEFA's football development division. It will help to take Futsal another step forward, with the small-sided game having already seen rapid growth in recent years. There has been a particularly marked development since the first UEFA Futsal Conference held in Italy in 2002, with more nations involved, wider audiences and a notable improvement in the standard of play.
'Further expansion'
In a joint address outlining the aims of the conference, UEFA President Lennart Johansson and UEFA Chief Executive Lars-Christer Olsson said: "The many recommendations and ideas put forward at the [2002] conference were well accepted by the member associations and today, four years on, Futsal is at the next stage of its development in Europe. Naturally, its further expansion brings with it new training-related aspirations and needs for coaches and players, and these will be discussed."
Spanish success
The Madrid setting is certainly a fitting one. Spain are the reigning European and world champions and their club teams have also dominated continental competition. In today's opening presentations, all-conquering coach Javier Lozano will share the secrets of his success and also introduce a practical session featuring local children. Strong coaching and talented youngsters go a long way to explaining the Spanish story.
Major role
In addition, UEFA technical director Andy Roxburgh will discuss the governing body's role in the development of Futsal. It has played a major part in promoting the sport, both through its successful tournaments – the UEFA European Futsal Championship and the UEFA Futsal Cup – and initiatives like these conferences and the UEFA Futsal Workshop staged for emerging nations last year in the Czech Republic.
Strong foundation
With more than 150 Futsal-focused participants from across Europe and beyond involved over the next two days, and plenty of opportunities set aside for considered discussion and reflection, there can be no doubt that a strong foundation will be laid for the future. uefa.com will provide full coverage of proceedings, so remember to return here for all the latest from Madrid.
