Futsal is an exciting, fast-paced, small-sided soccer game that originated in South America in the 1930s. It is widely played across the world and is the small sided soccer format that is officially recognized by both UEFA and FIFA. The nature of the game places a large emphasis on technical skill and ability in situations of high pressure and is subsequently an excellent breeding ground for soccer competencies that can be translated into the 11-a-side format of the game. Many of the top world class players played Futsal in their youth and credit it with supporting their soccer development. Players of the caliber of Pele, Zico, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Lionel Messi to name but a few of the South American legends all played and enjoyed Futsal.