Futsal code making inroads in East Sepik

WITH their motto “kicking for change” the Sepik Futsal Association, using the modified form of soccer to involve youths and adults in sports and keep them away from bad activities.
SFA ended its second annual Sepik Futsal championship for the U20, U17, U15 in the boys’ and girls’ and open women’s division late last month.
The championships were held during the first term school holidays on April 25-29.
SFA spokesman Clarence Hukahu said from Wewak that despite not securing any major sponsors, the local population who grew up with soccer was eager to participate in the code.
The chosen date for the championship enabled a lot of school children to participate.
Hukahu said from nine teams in two divisions last year, they had an increase to 29 teams participating in five divisions.
The teams come from three local associations, primary and secondary schools and communities in Wewak ULG who want to trial Futsal.
The focus for this year’s championship was to introduce the concept to communities who have not played Futsal and select players in the U20, U16 and U14 to prepare for PNG Football Association national championships.
The association is now planning to start two more local associations in Wewak Urban with its existing three for season proper next month.
The association is also looking for sponsors to support its idea of introducing the concept to more communities, LLGs, districts.