While most visitors paid attention to the matches on the fields at Canada Soccer 2023 Futsal Canadian Championship, some observers at the side line were looking at the action with a different lens.

“This is the first time I volunteer, and the first time I watch Futsal,” said 12-year-old Anson Dai who is one of the volunteer ball boys in the Championship.

Anson started playing soccer only 2 years ago. When he knew that the Futsal Nationals was coming to Calgary, he signed up as a volunteer right away.

“Soccer is fun, but I think Futsal is a different game, fast pace and players are skillful.”

As a ball boy, Dai had to focus on being an effective ball distributor and retriever. But he could also be hands-on” and understand why Futsal is different than other forms of indoor soccer.

“When I touch the ball, I realize that the ball pressure is different, less bouncy, I guess that’s why Futsal is unique, and the passing is so beautiful!”

In fact, it is one of the key reasons Futsal has helped develop world class players including Neymar Jr., Zidane, and our National treasure – Christine Sinclair.

“Sometimes I get caught watching the match,” Anson spoke with a grin, “I am proud to tell my classmates about this experience and tell them that being a good ball boy is not easy.”

Dai’s father, Alfred, is also a Calgary local Futsal referee. Before the tournament, he assisted by taping the bright yellow field markings accordingly. Another hero without cape.

So, no one should be surprised that their regular father-son conversations are about soccer.

“I have signed up to write the exam so that I can become a mini-soccer referee, I also want to see the Futsal Nationals coming back to Calgary again soon.”

“Oh, also, I would like to try to play Futsal one day.”

And, the seed planted.

Tags: Canada Soccer, Futsal, Futsal Calgary, Futsal Canada, Volunteerism, Volunteers