The sport of Futsal is a key priority for Ontario Soccer, as identified in its 2022-2026 Strategic Plan, with the overarching aim to grow and develop the sport through programs, services and new initiatives.

Futsal is the official FIFA and UEFA version of indoor 5-a-side soccer and the only internationally recognized small-sided game. There are proven benefits to playing futsal for the overall skill development of young players, with particular emphasis on their physical literacy as well as fundamental technical skills such as dribbling, passing and ball control. Futsal is played on a court surface, as opposed to traditional soccer that is played on grass and/or artificial turf.

These festivals are part of a broader pilot initiative delivered by Ontario Soccer to review various match formats dependent on the age-stage of development. Teams will participate in one modified match format and one senior regulation futsal match during the one-day festival. They will be analyzed to develop Grassroots Standards for Futsal for implementation province-wide in the 2025-2026 Indoor Season.

The coaches of the teams that register for these events shall also have priority access to the upcoming Futsal Coaching Certificate and Diploma courses (January – March 2025).

Ontario Soccer will host festivals at Cardinal Carter Academy in Aurora, Ontario, with four (4) festivals dedicated to female teams and four (4) to male teams.

We encourage all Member Clubs to register teams for these festivals to give their players a chance to experience the fast-paced and rewarding format of futsal. This is a fantastic opportunity to foster player development and create lasting memories on the futsal court!

Please note: If there are potential scheduling conflicts due to participation in other competitions, please share those details in the registration form. Efforts to accommodate club’s and their teams will be made while understanding that Clubs may use the Open Roster mechanism. For integrity of the analysis, players that attend in the morning must also attend the afternoon matches.

Registration cost (per team): $175.00

Registration deadline for all age groups: January 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m.

To register, please visit: https://ontariosoccer.sportngin.com/register/form/845969067

Further information regarding festival rules and the competition schedule will be shared closer to the registration deadline.

For any questions regarding the festivals, please contact Cameron Oliver, Coordinator, Player Development.