U7 & U8
Introduction to Futsal & Fundamental Skills
This is where it all begins. Our youngest players are introduced to the fundamentals of futsal in a fun, safe, and encouraging environment.
Sessions focus on:
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Developing basic futsal contextual demands
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Building coordination, balance, and agility
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Learning simple game rules and team roles
We use an ecological coaching approach , meaning we let kids learn through guided play rather than rigid drills. Coaches create small-sided games and dynamic scenarios that allow players to explore movement, make decisions, and naturally develop their understanding of the sport — all while having fun!
Building the Foundation - Learn to Train (Part 1)
At U10, players continue building the fundamental motor skills and basic technical abilities required for futsal. The environment remains playful and exploratory, with a strong emphasis decision-making , and team interaction .
Coaching Approach
An ecological dynamics framework is used, emphasizing guided discovery and game-based learning . Players learn best through modified games that allow them to solve problems in realistic contexts.
The use of small-sided and conditioned games allows children to explore solutions within a game context, which enhances both skill acquisition and motivation.
U9 & U10
U11 & U12
Refining Tactical Thinking - Learn to Train (Part 2)
At U12, players enter a critical window for skill refinement and tactical awareness . This stage focuses on improving technical consistency , game intelligence , and physical conditioning .
Key Focus Areas:
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Contextual Technical Skills: More complex dribbling, feints, first-touch control, and accurate passing under pressure.
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Tactical Understanding: Positional responsibilities, self-regulation, transitional moments (attack to defence and vice versa), and basic set pieces.
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Physical Development: Enhanced speed, agility, and endurance; beginning of structured fitness elements.
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Psychosocial Development: Team cohesion, leadership, and emotional regulation.
U13 & U14
Tactical Specialization and Physical Growth - Train to Compete
At U14, players enter a critical phase where they begin to specialize in roles and positions. This stage is marked by increased physical growth due to puberty, which can impact coordination, balance, and fatigue resistance. The training environment becomes more structured, with greater emphasis on tactical understanding , position-specific development , and physical conditioning .
This aligns with the Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model, which identifies this as the "Train to Compete" stage—where athletes refine their skills and prepare for higher-level competition.
Coaching Approach
A periodized training model is introduced, planning sessions around weekly and monthly cycles to ensure optimal performance while minimizing injury risk. Coaches use deliberate practice methods—structured, goal-oriented repetitions with feedback—to improve technical consistency and decision-making.
U15 & U16
High Performance Preparation - Train to Win
At U16, players are transitioning into elite youth levels, often competing regionally or nationally. This stage focuses on high-performance preparation , including advanced technical execution , complex tactical systems , and mental resilience .
Coaching Approach
An integrated performance model is adopted, combining video analysis , data-driven planning , and individualized feedback . Coaches collaborate with strength and conditioning specialists, sports psychologists, and nutritionists to support holistic player development. Players also engage in reflective practice , analyzing personal performance using video tools and performance metrics.
GIRLS
York Futsal (C.I.C) work in partnership with Bootham Futsal Club who provide futsal coaching for girls.
The club is based in York and all futsal coaching sessions are taken by fully qualified FA coaches with age groups ranging from U10 to U18.
For more information call 07720 441953 or click on the link below to visit their website.
