Club Menai hosts gala event launching Small Sided Games

This program is based on a ?street football? culture seen in South America and many of the developing football nations. SSG is played in over 60 countries around the world including France, The Netherlands, Germany, Great Britain & Ireland. It has underpinned the development of French football to the power house it is today.
SSG is a grass roots football competition that emphasises fun and skill development. Teams compete on the day but not for competition points. We call all these modified games Rooball. Games are played on smaller fields with fewer numbers e.g. in the U?6?s its 4v4 on a small pitch with no goalies. The small sided games give players more touches on the ball, encourage them to make decisions appropriate to their age and most of all have fun.
SSFA is introducing Rooball in the SSG format this year for ages 6 – 9, beginning in April.
Guests on the night included Ben Buckley, Rob Baan and John Boulos and 3 other representatives from FFA. The presence of Ben (CEO), Rob (Technical Director) and John (National Competitions Manager) was a testimony to FFA?s commitment to grassroots development. A strong representation from Sutherland Council was also present.
Stephen Burke (Director of Community & Recreation), Ray Whiting (Manager of Sport & Recreation and Jess Goddard, Council?s Sport & Recreation Officer were all in attendance. The support of Council is integral to the success of all our football programs.
Beginning April upwards of 18000 football players will begin another season. Around 12000 of these players are juniors including nearly 5000 girls. In amongst all this will be our Rooballer?s playing small sided games. SSFA wishes everyone associated with this great sport all the best for the season.
Our thanks go to Club Menai for providing the venue free of charge, Council for their ongoing support and FFA for demonstrated commitment to and delivery of small sided games.