blog.gov.jeFutsal Jersey began as an initiative to introduce a new sport to the island, aiming to get everyone involved. While establishing leagues has been challenging due to competing sports and commitments, the project quickly found its niche. Members discovered that futsal offered a unique space for players to hone their technical skills, build confidence, and embrace teamwork—all while enjoying the game away from mainstream football. Today, Futsal Jersey’s mission extends beyond skill development, creating an inclusive and judgment-free environment for players of all levels.
Introducing the Men’s Learning Disabilities Team
The journey to establish a men’s team for individuals with learning disabilities began on a rainy February night in 2023. Futsal Jersey’s founder, Martin Cassidy, noticed the Jersey Men’s LD football team training outside in challenging conditions. Inviting them indoors for a free futsal taster session proved to be a turning point. The players loved the experience and soon committed to weekly sessions, which have now been running for 18 months. The initiative has become a highlight of their week, providing a safe, supportive space to learn, grow, and enjoy sport.
Why Futsal Works for the LD Team
Futsal offers a blend of fun, fitness, and personal growth. It provides a safe environment for players to experiment, make mistakes, and learn without fear of judgment. The game encourages teamwork, decision-making, and technical skill development, all while fostering social inclusion. Unlike more competitive sports, futsal’s non-elitist nature makes it an ideal platform for building confidence and connection among players.
Goals and Vision
In the short term, the team’s goal is to show up, support each other, and improve with each session. Long-term aspirations include representing Jersey in off-island LD matches and competitions. For many players, being part of the team has created a sense of belonging and pride, strengthening connections within the LD community and beyond.
Looking Ahead
The future is bright for the LD team. Plans include continuing weekly sessions into 2025 and exploring opportunities for off-island tournaments in collaboration with Futsal England. Futsal Jersey also hopes to expand its offerings to other community groups that could benefit from similar programs, further fostering inclusion and growth through sport.
How You Can Support
The local community can make a difference by giving their time and presence. Being there, showing care, and offering encouragement can have a lasting impact on the players and the program. By supporting initiatives like this, the community contributes to a more inclusive and connected environments for all.
Futsal Jersey’s journey demonstrates the power of sport to unite, inspire, and transform. Through programs like the LD team, they’re building more than just skilled players—they’re creating a thriving, inclusive community.
Want to learn more? Click here.
Connect Me: Connecting Our Communities
The Connect Me initiative has been instrumental in sustaining the team’s progress. Funding from Connect Me has enabled Futsal Jersey to provide qualified coaches, equipment, and in-house matches at no cost to players.
Connect Me is a Government of Jersey initiative that provides grants of up to £5,000 for projects which increase opportunities for Jersey residents to participate in arts or physical activities for wellbeing. Click here to find out more.
Find out about the Elemental Service
Elemental is an online social prescribing platform that allows healthcare professionals to refer patients to community programs and services that can help them improve their health and well-being.
Islanders have the flexibility to self-refer or seek assistance from a link worker. Elemental showcases a diverse range of charities and services which also includes organisations that have received funding from the Connect Me scheme to deliver community-based activities.