With it's accelerated pace it's become one of the fastest growing sports in the country.

And it's on its way to Manteca.

Give Every Child a Chance is currently in negotiations with Youth Education Sports to bring Futsal -- a mini-indoor soccer game that has grown extensively throughout the world -- to the children of the organization.

Discussions are already underway with the Manteca Parks and Recreation Department to secure game locations for a league that will bring the unique and wildly popular game to the tutoring locations throughout Manteca and surrounding communities.

"We're excited about the possibility of this happening," GECAC Program Director Chuck Crutchfield said. "It's definitely a game I think that the kids will enjoy."

It's a game that's been around for more than half a century -- with its roots firmly entrenched in the South American countries of Uruguay and Argentina.

Also considered mini or salon soccer -- the game puts a unique twist on traditional soccer without compromising the sanctity of the game.

Futsal proudly garners the sanction of FIFA -- the governing body that rules over the International sport.

Reggie Evans of Youth Education Sports has made it his job to travel around to various locations throughout the Central Valley to promote athletic leagues like the ones currently being planned for Futsal.

"It's really an easy game for people to pick up and run with," Evans said. "It only requires one referee, and it is extremely fast paced so the kids get more out of it not only in exercise but fun."

A free educational clinic on how to play the unique game -- which utilizes a weighted ball to keep it in play more than the traditional soccer ball -- will be offered to all interested participants on May 11.

The Manteca Parks and Recreation Department will be bringing back the Dr. V. Softball Tournament as well as a fundraising method to help raise the $1500 necessary to launch the new leagues.

"It's an exciting and fun game and we think that people will catch onto it," Crutchfield said. "We hope that the community will get behind us on this because it's something that we are expecting big things from."

Volunteer coaches as well as referees are currently being sought for the Futsal league -- and high school and college age volunteers are eligible for a stipend that comes in the form of a savings bond for every 20 hours of time. For more information, contact Give Every Child a Chance at 825-7003.

By JASON CAMPBELL

Staff reporter of the

Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin