As the futsal season fast approaches, the NAIT Ooks men's futsal team, under the guidance of Head Coach Jeff Paulus, is gearing up for a unique challenge that blends technical prowess with logistical considerations.
Heading into the 2024 futsal season, Coach Paulus admits, "I honestly don't know what to expect this season. We certainly have very good technical players, and this alone allows us to be competitive in futsal, but we do suffer from a lack of training space. How fast we come together with our systems will determine our success," he reflects. The emphasis on technical ability sets the team apart, underlining their competitiveness in the futsal arena.
Coach Paulus sees the futsal season as an opportunity to extend the soccer team's cohesion into the second semester. "It keeps our players getting touches on the ball and allows us to stay involved with our athletes," he states. Despite being an extension of the soccer season, the team has clear aspirations for the futsal championship. "Of course, our goal will be to reach the championship weekend and, in satisfying that, go for a gold medal," adds Coach Paulus, highlighting the team's competitive spirit.
Both tournaments and the ACAC Championship will be played at Portage College this season. With significant travel on the horizon, Coach Paulus expresses relief at the centralized venue. "Driving to Portage is much better and safer than driving to Fort Mac or Grande Prairie in the winter, so I am delighted that it is all this one venue," he notes. Regarding familiarity, Coach Paulus dismisses concerns, stating, "I don't believe that the travel will be an issue for the group at all as Portage has a fantastic facility for hosting futsal. As for familiarity, it really shouldn't matter as the surface of the gym floor and dimensions of the field are quite standard regardless of where we play."
As the NAIT Ooks men's futsal team prepares to navigate the challenges and opportunities of the upcoming season, there's a sense of anticipation and readiness for the 2024 season. The first tournament kicks off on Friday, January 19th.