What are the rules of futsal?

See the rules page for more information.

How do I know what division is best for my team?

Division A (north) is for top teams, most of which have played futsal before. Divisions B/central is the second level and C/south is for lower level teams. There may not be much different between B and C when offered. Generally this delineation is more apparent at U10 and U12. See the 5v5 league registration page for more information.

What if my team is in the wrong division?

We go to great lengths to create level divisions. However, we hold off on confirming divisions until after the first week of play. If a team is in the wrong division, we are easily able to adjust the divisions and ensure that the team plays level competition.

What is a friendly?

A friendly match is a game that does not count toward standings. Sometimes it is with a team in the same division, but often it is across divisions. It is a good opportunity for teams to see opponents not on their regular schedules, often those that might present a different challenge or skillset. They might be up or down a division or age group or even boys against girls.

Are there many blowouts?

No. In our youth leagues we make it very clear to all coaches that lopsided scores are a serious affront to fair play. The lessons of sportsmanship are as important as those of winning and losing, and almost all coaches agree. In addition, the maximum goal differential recorded in regular season standings is +6/-6. Realistically speaking, teams winning games by 8-10 goals should apply some restraints. In our youth leagues, it can be expected that games will rarely, if ever, end with a margin greater than 8-10 goals. In our high school and adult leagues, there is a slightly greater likelihood of a lopsided score.

We want to play a certain day. What should we do?

For U12, U13 and U14, we offer Saturday and Sunday options, which are noted right on the registration page. However, the highest division only plays on Saturday for those age groups. See the 5v5 league registration page for more information.

I don't know anything about futsal, but I am signed up to be a futsal coach! What should I do?

Don't worry! Futsal itself is the best trainer, so foremost just get your players signed up and playing! Make sure you -- and your team -- know the rules. We recommend speaking with one of our senior staff members or a couple veteran coaches before the season. As early as you can, come watch some veteran futsal teams. The high school boys and girls A/north divisions are always entertaining and informative. We can also arrange a training session with one of our professional coaches. And this year we are offering the choice of a pre-season friendly or attendance at our pre-season player clinics – so take advantage of that for sure!

Do you offer any price discounts?

We offer discounts to split teams and to programs that register multiple teams together. See the fees page for more information.

What equipment is needed for futsal?

All players playing in 5v5 leagues must wear shirts with numbers, shorts (only the goalkeeper may wear pants), shinguards covered by socks, and futsal appropriate footwear.

What is futsal appropriate footwear?

Players may only wear footwear that is not a) dangerous to themselves or to an opponent, and b) will not mark or injure the floor. Players are strongly encouraged to wear futsal shoes. See the futsal gear page to learn more about why futsal shoes are so important. 

The following are permitted (per the above):

• futsal shoes
• indoor soccer flats
• tennis sneakers
• running sneakers

The following are not permitted:

• boots
• soccer shoes/cleats
• turf shoes
• wheelies/heelies
• wet/soiled footwear

Why do players need to change shoes in the lobby?

A tiny bit of water, snow, sand or salt tracked into the court can cause significant problems for players and for the floor itself. To eliminate the risk of injury and destruction of the facility, no player may play in shoes worn outside. All players must change their shoes in the lobby or hallway before entering the gym. In addition, keeping futsal shoes clear of water, sand and salt prolongs their useful life, increasing the development of the player and saving money!

Are soccer balls allowed in your facilities?

No! For safety reasons, no soccer balls are allowed in our facilities. Soccer balls will be confiscated.

Do you offer any refreshments at your facilities?

Concessions items are available at our Brookline facility. We sell water, Gatorade, sports and energy bars, bananas, oranges, granola bars, cookies, chips, candy and an assortment of other items.

I see a photo I would like a higher resolution copy of. Can I get one?

Most likely, yes! Send us a note and we'll see what we can find for you.

Is futsal worth the drive to Brookline?

Absolutely! Teams and players come from as far as Melrose, Lowell, Bedford, Framingham and Rehoboth to play futsal. Our officials come from places like Billerica, Marlborough and Braintree. There is simply no better winter soccer option; and no program is more professional or more dedicated to your success and enjoyment than Massachusetts Futsal. And especially on the weekend, it's not a bad drive either! See the who's playing page to find out what clubs and teams play futsal.

How do I sign my team up for your league?

See the 5v5 league registration page for more information.

Can individual players sign up for leagues, too?

Yes. Interested individuals should first try to get their whole team to play! That is the only guaranteed way to participate. If you're not able, complete our free agent registration page and we will do our best to place you.

How does the free agent process work?

• Parent/player registers online
• Parent/player sends Massachusetts Futsal a check for $25
• If enough free agents of same age/level, a new house team is created and players are charged an additional fee of $100
• If not enough free agents of same age/level, Massachusetts Futsal contacts teams in applicable divisions to inquire whether they need players
• If existing teams need players, Massachusetts Futsal matches the free agent with the team (first come first served) and further financial arrangements are made between the player and the team
• If no existing team can be found, player remains on free agent list until placement

How many players are on a 5v5 futsal team roster?

Team fees are for 10 roster spots. Teams may elect to carry 12 rostered players, but the 11th and 12th players cost an additional $10 each for insurance purposes. See the policies page for more information.

Are split/sibling teams allowed to move players?

Split teams may add up to three players from their sibling team per game. In this case the coach must pick up the roster cards for both teams so that all applicable players are accounted for on a roster. The total number of players active for a game may never be greater than 12.

I have a question that isn't answered here. What should I do?

See the contact us page and send a message to the applicable person.