By Michael Uugwanga
Recently appointed Futsal Namibia chairperson Abisai Simon says the development of the sport in the country must start at grassroots level, with the introduction of structured youth leagues.
Simon told Confidente this week that Futsal Namibia needs to establish age-group competitions to ensure young players are introduced to the sport at an early age.
He was appointed chairperson of Futsal Namibia at the Namibia Football Association (NFA) executive council’s annual general meeting on 19 September, marking a new chapter for futsal development in the country.
“Absolutely. This is actually one of the areas I believe we need to correct.
“If we only introduce a player to futsal when he or she is 17, 18 or 20 years old, we are already starting late compared with established futsal countries,” Simon said.
He said the long-term objective would be to introduce age-group structures, starting with categories such as Under-9, Under-11 and Under-13, before progressively expanding to older age groups for both boys and girls.
“Grassroots development is not only about finding national-team players. Futsal can help children develop technique, quick decision-making, confidence on the ball and an understanding of small-sided football,” he added.
For the grassroots programme to become a reality, Simon said Futsal Namibia would need to work closely with the Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU), an independent national body mandated to regulate, develop and promote sport and physical recreation in schools.
“Schools will be extremely important in achieving this. We want to explore school programmes, festivals, development competitions and community activations where children can first experience futsal in an enjoyable environment before progressing into structured competition,” he said.
Simon said the aim was to create a clear pathway for young players to enter the sport and progress through the system.
“Our job is to create the pathway so that a child can start playing futsal at a young age and continue progressing through the system.
“As chairman, my main responsibility is to provide leadership and strategic direction to Futsal Namibia together with the newly elected executive committee.
It is no longer only about organising competitions; we need to build an institution that can develop and sustain futsal throughout Namibia,” Simon said.
