Many readers may be already familiar with the sport of Futsal, a version of 5-a-side indoor football that became widespread in South America before becoming popular in Europe more recently, but did you know that there is a Bohemians Futsal team?

The team was formed by former members of the Bohemian Supports Club who had been playing 11-a-side in the Leinster Senior League but moved to the indoor game and now compete at Futsal AUL Premier Division, a highly competitive league with some top class competition. And as Futsal is officially recognised by UEFA the top team in Ireland even get to compete in European competition each year.

While many have the view that Futsal is purely a game of finesse, tricks and technique – and a good first touch and quick brain are a great advantage to have on the futsal court -the game is also robust and physical with plenty of burly number 9′s populating the league. The sport began in Uruguay and quickly gained popularity throughout South America. It is now a truly global game although the sport in Ireland is still in its early days.

The Bohemians Supporters club side are currently in preseason training ahead of the new AUL season which is beginning in September. The club has recently played friendlies against last season’s cup champions Blue Magic and Northern Irish league side Omagh Futsal Club.

The club is always looking for new members and is currently fielding two teams. If any other Bohemian F.C. supporters are interesting in getting involved, (as players or indeed assisting with the running of the club) please contact futsal@bohemians.ie.

Or better yet come down to one of the training sessions which take place each Sunday at 10am in the Inspire Fitness Centre on the Navan Road, just a short distance from Dalymount. Training also takes place each Tuesday at 8pm in Blanchardstown in the Sport Ireland complex at Abbotstown. The club are also happy to talk to businesses or individuals who would be interested in helping to sponsor the team.

The squad are already provides players for two teams, a premier and a reserve side and already have close to 30 players from a widely diverse background, however there are ambitions to grow the club further. As summer ebbs away and the doom and gloom of the close season looms why not get in touch and get involved.