However, futsal coaches don’t have an easy job as they are constantly presented with new challenges. The biggest one is that many outdoor coaches in the region discourage futsal in Atlanta and don’t fully understand the benefits of the game. Regardless, Richard and the rest of the futsal staff at Sudamerica find it extremely rewarding to watch players transition their futsal mindset and learned skills to the larger field.

For the industry as a whole, Richard hopes that futsal continues to become more accepted. If players learn to think and control the ball in tight space situations, they will be more prepared for the unexpected on the bigger stage. Futsal is what the country needs to catch up to the rest of the world at a faster rate. Some of today’s biggest stars, such as Ronaldo, Messi, and Neymar, all began their careers by playing futsal in their youth while falling in love with the game over and over. Sudamerica hopes that their futsal efforts will help others see the game as it is: a beautiful sport of finesse, concentration, and precise execution.