A NEW girls’ futsal club will open in York this weekend.

Based at St Olave’s School, and run by Pro Coaching Academy, Bootham Futsal Club York will hold sessions from 4.30pm to 6.30pm every Sunday, open to girls aged from under-10s to U18s.

Pro Coaching Academy director and head coach Chris Collins, who has also been running a futsal club at Manor CE Academy for over two years, said: "Last season we took a group of U14 girls to the Regional FA Futsal tournament in Gateshead. The girls loved it and wanted to play more, but there were no girls’ futsal clubs in York.

"Junior Roberti does an amazing job with the boys at York City Futsal Club, based at the University of York, but he simply has no space for the girls.

"We contacted North Yorkshire Sports to see if they could help, and they have generously supported us going forward. It has taken about six months to get to this stage, so all we need now are new players,"

Futsal is fast-paced, small-sided indoor football which is officially recognised by UEFA, FIFA and the FA. It is played on a hard surface, with a heavier ball and hockey-sized goals.

Collins, who also took a group of U12 girls to the national futsal finals in Birmingham, said: "Futsal is the fastest growing indoor sport in the world. It is fun and great for making new friends.

"Everyone is welcome, regardless of ability."

Sunday's first session is free. The new club are also offering established girls' football teams a free one-hour futsal session. For details, phone Collins on 07720 441953 or email info@procoachingacademy.co.uk

Collins, a Level 3 FA coach, is studying for his UEFA 'B' qualifications in both football and futsal. He is also currently U13 Academy coach at York City FC, as well as coach for Rawcliffe U15 Girls.