FSJ Futsalistas and Zamyad FC represent BC at Futsal Nationals
Two British Columbian Futsal teams have now represented BC on the National Stage and gained immeasurable experience.
Held at the Seven Chiefs Sportsplex on Tsuut’ina Nation, in Calgary, Alberta, the Futsal Nationals took place from April 9-12th. Four action-packed days saw teams from across Canada come together for the chance to be crowned National Champions.
On the Men's side, Zamyad FC opened the tournament with two tough matches against Saskatchewan and Alberta. The men rallied together and used their brother-like bond to turn their tournament around.
"When you come here, there is a different level" says Mo Karimi of Zamyad FC. "In the first two games we gave the other teams too much respect. Today we changed that and put some pressure on our opponents and were able to get the result."
Despite a strong comeback and a penalty shootout in their consolation final, Zamyad FC would finish in 6th place in their first Futsal Nationals.
On the Women's side, the Futsalistas opened with two hard fought matches against Alberta and Ontario before facing off against New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in the playoff round.
Hailing from Northern BC, the Fort St. John Futsalistas have overcome many hurdles on their journey to the National Stage. "For us to get to this level is an honour" says Claire Turner of the Futsalistas.
"We have players from Prince George, Quesnel, some players are in Grand Prairie, Alberta, even Victoria and Montreal, so we don't all get to come together and practice like these other teams do" adds Futsalista Captain Jordynn Mcpherson. "So when we get to a tournament weekend, it's kind of trying to get together and find the rhythm while we're there."
Given the adversity of not being able to train as a group before the tournament, the Futsalistas take a wealth of knowledge and experience back to their towns and aim to return to the National Stage again next season.
BC Soccer would like to extend a huge congratulations and thank you to Zamyad FC and the Fort St. John Futsalistas for representing British Columbia with class.
As Futsal continues to grow in popularity across the Province, BC Soccer is committed to developing players, coaches and referees that will raise the level of Futsal in BC.
