Courtesy: Daily San Diego Soccer News


Super Mario Pushes to Expand Futsal

By Kathy Snyder

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

San Diego Futsal League founder Mario Mrakovic is in the process of cementing Futsal youth and adult leagues that will run six months and 12 months a year.

“There are really no youth Futsal leagues out there and the sport is soon to be in the Olympics,” Coach Mario said. “There are attempts, but it always falls down flat or it is on a small scale. I hope to have it done right and get the numbers lit up.”

Coach Mario already ran two annual youth leagues with 14 and 21 teams competing, and two tournaments with 24 and 32 teams competing. Each team roster consisted of about 8-10 players.

Futsal is fantastic training for soccer according to Futsal parent and team photographer, Diane Scavuzzo: "Our son (Michael Scavuzzo) loves to play soccer and his footwork has improved incredibly through Mario's programs.”

Players in Presidio and recreational leagues don’t have to miss out on the opportunity to improve their soccer skill, touch and technique through Futsal.

“I never like to run any leagues or tournaments during the Presidio or AYSO league season," Coach Mario said. "Only clinics where players come to hone their skills and get the touches.”

Coach Mario calls his style “frantic, high-paced and passionate, with lots of technical and fundamental intentions," and claims that if you can play Futsal, you can play any sport (this is not reversible, though).

“The qualities and benefits of Futsal are never going to be second best to anything else out there, and it is always my first priority and a goal to provide the best possible training and gaming in San Diego.”

"I love Futsal,” said Michael Scavuzzo, member of the Surf BU8 White. “It is so fast, everyone gets to kick the soccer ball and try to score. It is great fun."







Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com