FUTSAL chiefs in Warrington have been delighted by the take-up of their annual youth tournament after it sold out for the third year in a row.

Places were snapped up quickly for next weekend’s Warrington Youth Futsal Championships, with the tournament taking place on June 16-17 at the University of Chester’s Padgate campus.

Futsal is a modified, five-a-side version of football played indoors on a smaller pitch with a heavier ball, with emphasis placed on skill and technique.

Former Beamont Collegiate Academy pupil Jordan Edge can be held up as an example of the town’s futsal success.

Having played football for Matthiola and Warrington Schoolboys in his younger days, the 19-year-old now plays for Manchester Futsal Club in the FA Super League and has won two England caps.

Karl Burns from tournament organiser Wire Futsal, believes Warrington is “a hotbed” for the sport.

“We’re delighted by the response we’ve had, but at the same time we’re not surprised,” he told the Guardian.

“This is the third year we’ve run the tournament and we’ve sold out of places on each occasion.

“We’re looking forward to another great tournament. There should be some great talent on show.

“If you look at people like Jordan Edge, who has gone on to play for England, it shows there is talent in the town.

“He’s an example of what can be achieved.

“Warrington could be a bit of a futsal hotbed and we’re trying to unlock that.”

Summer leagues in the under 9s, under 10s, under 13s and under 14s age groups have also just started as opportunities to get into futsal continue to grow

Wire Futsal are looking for local businesses to support the Warrington Youth Futsal Championships. Any interested parties should contact Karl Burns on 07722127227 or email karl@wirefutsal.com.