THEY may have been inactive throughout the pandemic, but Warrington Futsal Club have taken a big step forward.

While the past 16 months may have been very quiet as Covid put paid to any training or games, the club has received two pieces of ground-breaking news in the past seven days.

For the first time ever, the town will be represented at the top level of futsal – an indoor, small-sided version of football played with a heavier ball and smaller goals – in both the mens' and women's game.

The club's women will take part in the FA Women's Super Series during the 2021-22 season while the men have been successful in their bid to enter the National Futsal League.

With a thriving youth section already in operation, club chairman Karl Burns hailed the news as the chance to complete a pathway through to the highest level.

"After such a difficult 16 months for everyone, this is such great news and provides the perfect platform for us to move forward into the 2021/22 season," he said.

"We're incredibly proud to be representing the town at the very top level of ladies and men's futsal – this is a first for Warrington.

"Within the club we have a thriving youth section with players from 7-16 years old, but to continue our development we knew it was essential to have our senior teams playing at the very top level.

"This completes the player pathway and will hopefully provide future role models for our young players."

Players will hope to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Jordan Edge – a former Beamont Collegiate Academy pupil who has gone on to represent the England national futsal team.

Warrington Futsal Club are looking for new women's and men's players to help them make the step up to their new level.

If you are interested in joining, email head of coaching Colin Powell on colin@warringtonfutsal.com to find out further information.