The word ‘Soccer’ in itself was supposed to be fun, thrilling, and enjoyable. But, a few great minds decided to add a little beach to the sport, thus giving birth to Beach Soccer. Beach Soccer, also known as Beach Football or Sand Football, is played on some form of sand, preferably on the beach.
People have been playing soccer at the beach for decades now, but it was not until 1992 that the idea to play this ‘twist’ on traditional soccer as a professional sport came up.
History
Beach Soccer Worldwide was a company set up in 1992 to develop the game and establish its rules worldwide. The company is known for playing the most significant role in popularizing the game which was played recreationally on the beaches of Brazil.
FIFA took over the role of governing body from Beach Soccer Worldwide in 2005. The rules framed by BSWW were so impressive that FIFA acknowledged them and made their rules the official laws of Beach Soccer.
The first professional Beach Soccer event was organized in July of 1993 in Miami Beach. The first Pro Beach Soccer World Championship was held in 1995 in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil was crowned the first champions, followed by the US and England respectively. You can check the latest beach soccer events here: https://thebossbet.com/beach-soccer/
How is it played?
The sport of Beach Soccer is entertaining in all the senses of the word. The sand adds another element to the sport, putting aerobic strength, teamwork, and individual skills to the test.
- The game of Beach Soccer never ends in a draw. In the case of a draw, the game goes into three minutes of extra time followed by penalty shootouts if the scores are level.
- The games are played on a sandy area or a surface of the sand, preferably the beach. The dimension of the field of play is usually 35-37 meters in length and 26-28 meters in width.
- The goals are slightly smaller than that of the traditional form of soccer, being 2.2 meters in height to 5.5 meters in width.
- Each team consists of five players each, including the goalkeeper. Substitutions are unlimited from a selection of three to five players.
- Players are not allowed to wear shoes and must play with bare feet, although ankle guards are permitted.
- The game is divided into three periods of 12 minutes each.
- Throw-in and kick-in is allowed, which dictates the pace of the game.
Conclusion
The level of skill required for this precious game is on another level. The sandy and uneven surface on which is it is played makes it both fun to watch and hard to play.
On average, about eleven goals are scored in each match of Professional Beach Soccer with a goal being scored every three to four minutes. Since the sport gained its professional status, all games are televised.
The audiences and crowds watching the games are entertained with music and shows. Attend one during the weekend. After all, what could be better than watching a game of soccer at the beachside with your friends and family.
