Entries are now open for male and female Under 10s to 16s teams from across Essex to take part in the popular Futsal Qualifiers during November and December.

The qualifiers offer the opportunity to enjoy small-sided football in a competitive environment and test themselves against other teams from across the county, an area of the game which grows season after season.

Futsal is a five-a-side game, normally played on a flat, indoor pitch with hockey-sized goals and a Futsal-specific ball which has a reduced bounce. Although Futsal is very much a game in its own right, there are also a number of benefits for football by encouraging young people to play Futsal as part of a balanced training programme, improving their overall technical development.

Qualifiers were introduced five seasons ago due to the popularity and interest in the game. The competition structure this year sees each Group Area hosting a qualifying round for Under 10s, 12s, 14s and 16s Boys teams.

A winner and runner-up (depending on the age group) can secure a place in the finals which, this year, are being held at the new sports arena at the University of Essex. This will involve playing the winners from the other Group Area qualifiers.

The female competition sees teams from Under 10s, 12s, 14s and 16s will come together at the same venue and the winner will be determined on the day. There is also a schools category for Under 13s boys’ and girls’ teams. Winners from each age group then go on to a regional competition.

To book a team place in the qualifiers, view the download links in the Excel files at the foot of this page. Information on Futsal is also shared by @EssexCountyFA on Twitter and by ‘EssexFootball’ on Facebook.

Age on 31st August 2019 (Eligible Age Groups)

6 - Under 7s or 8s
7 - Under 8s or 9s
8 - Under 9s or 10s
9 - Under 10s or 11s
10 - Under 11s or 12s
11 - Under 12s or 13s
12 - Under 13s or 14s
13 - Under 14s or 15s
14 - Under 15s or 16s
15 - Under 16s, 17s or 18s
16 - Under 17s, 18s or Open-Age