COFFS Harbour Futsal and its centre is one of the best-kept secrets of Coffs Harbour sport.

Coffs Harbour Futsal’s summer seasons are currently underway with rounds having been played at the centre based in the North Boambee Valley.

The social men’s competition is held each Monday night, with social games held each Friday night.

Coffs Harbour Futsal’s junior competitions are held on Wednesday and Friday afternoons.

Byron Escobar is the Head Director of coaching for Far North NSW and is based at the Coffs Harbour Futsal centre.

He took up the role five months ago after moving from Brisbane, and told News Of the Area that local players had shown potential to excel at a higher level.

“There are some great players in Coffs Harbour, and a lot of people don’t know of the pathways that are available,” he said.

“But those who know about these opportunities are doing really well.”

Escobar highlighted the differences between futsal and traditional football.

“The ball is smaller and it doesn’t bounce as much, and the game is much quicker and everyone is accountable,” he said.

“You have to see the play two steps ahead before it happens and you really have to get behind the ball and help out because it’s so quick.”

The coach said the future of Coffs Harbour futsal was bright.

“The Coffs juniors have a strong under 8’s team coming through, and there are a lot of bright prospects for the future,” he said.

Harley Parker is the man behind the creation of a group and page on social media which led to the start of Friday night social games.

He explained the intentions behind creating the idea for social games on a Friday night.

“The aim was to get a social futsal night going for people who couldn’t play in the futsal competition on a regular basis but still wanted to kick a ball when they could and those who also wanted to keep fit as most six a side outdoor soccer competitions were pushed back and some cancelled due to COVID,” he said.

“We have a good mix of players who have turned up over the last three months, and we take the first 21 names and then make the three teams as fair as possible on playing ability, then each team plays each other twice in four 20-minute games each Friday night.”

 

By Aiden BURGESS