How to Become a Pro Futsal Player
The Ultimate Guide to Becoming a Futsal Pro
What is futsal? Futsal is the fastest-growing indoor sport in the world - and that means more and more professional opportunities are popping up. The U.S.-based National Futsal Premier League was founded in 2018, and the Union of European Football Associations alone has more than 50 top-level futsal leagues.
Being a futsal pro is now a legitimate option for young athletes. However, it will take a lot to achieve this dream. Here are six tips for becoming a futsal professional from Bownet Sports®.
Maintain a Busy Training Schedule
Just like in every sport, there are a lot more athletes trying to become a futsal professional than there are spots available. So, you're going to have to outwork your peers. Plan on training or playing 5-6 times a week consistently. Areas of focus should include shooting, passing, coordination, ball movement, tactics and even on-the-fly substitutions. Furthermore, owning futsal equipment such as portable nets and futsal balls is a must.
Get Physically Fit
Futsal is a high-intensity, fast-moving game. As such, you'll need to be in great shape to play professionally. In Physical and Physiological Demands of Futsal, researchers determined that being a futsal player requires the ability to sprint repeatedly while also having endurance. This may mean adding cardio and weight training sessions each week in addition to your skills training and games.
Be Ready to Travel
We're not just talking about driving half an hour to a weekend pick-up game. You'll need to be willing to go all over the country to participate in major tournaments. Furthermore, most professional leagues are overseas - not just in Europe, but in places like Asia, Australia and South America. Going abroad may be your best chance to get a shot.
Build a Brand
No one's going to offer you a contract, or even a tryout, if they don't know you exist. Use YouTube and social media to get your name out there and show you're committed to becoming a pro. Upload photos, highlight videos, game updates and anything else that showcases your abilities. It's a surprisingly effective way to get yourself on the radar of scouts, coaches, agents and sponsors.
Know You'll Have to Sacrifice
Putting the needed time into your futsal training often means missing out on other things. You'll have to accept not staying out late the night before a game, abstaining from alcohol and junk food, missing gatherings with friends or forgoing that new phone in favor of a tournament registration fee. You also need be careful about what you say publicly or post on social media as controversy can deter potential interest.
Be Positive and Resilient
In elite athletics, mindset is as important as physical skills. There will be times when it feels like you're stuck in a rut with training, or you think you were unfairly passed over for a tryout. Instead of letting those things deter their efforts, a true professional will use them as motivation. A positive outlook can be what separates you from someone who is just as talented.