There are several reasons why football has long been considered the most popular sport in the world. In addition to being accessible and affordable to play, it requires extraordinary speed and endurance and offers some of the most sophisticated footwork outside of a dance studio.
Now imagine the lightning-fast game played barefoot on the sand in the sun in a stunning natural environment right here in Vancouver.
Taking place each summer in Spanish Banks, Beach Soccer Blast is the only competition of its kind in British Columbia.
Having started in 1996, the event has grown each year, with around 800 to 1,000 players expected at this summer’s showdown in August.
Sand football is said to be even more exciting than the normal game, with the soft surface making it more likely that players will be in the air and attempting tricks like bicycle kicks. Additionally, technical skills like juggling are particularly important in allowing players to maneuver the unpredictable and ever-changing terrain beneath their feet.
βWe find beach soccer is so popular because it’s a great way to spend a sunny summer weekend, especially in Vancouver, where we not only have great weather, but also views of the North Shore Mountains and downtown Vancouver as a backdrop,β said tournament director Dean Tsatouhas. Georgia Straight. βPlus, the weekend tournament is the perfect excuse to go to the beach with a group of friends, soak up the sun and be active.
βBeach soccer is such a fun twist on the sport,β he says. “The added challenge of how the ball responds to sand rather than grass or gravel keeps players on their toes and maintains a fast, exciting pace of play. Playing on a beach also means that downtime between matches is more fun, with teams setting up on the beach for the day with barbecues, music and the chance to cool off in the ocean.”
The Beach Soccer Blast tournament is officially sanctioned by BC Soccer, the governing body of the province.
Five-on-five matches consist of 14-minute halves on a 30-by-50-yard field, using a regulation football (but nets smaller than regulation size). Players do not wear shoes, cleats or shin guards, although some put on socks if the sand is hot or tape their ankles or toes as a protective measure.
The tournament is open to players of all ages and skill levels. The youth division is open to boys and girls teams under 10 and under 16, while the senior division is for players aged 16-18 or 18 and over, with options for men’s, women’s and mixed competitive and recreational play.
Teams can register up to 10 people, and mixed teams must have at least two players on the field at all times.
The Whitecaps Football Club’s ‘Caps Cruiser’ will be on hand at this summer’s tournament, complete with music and prizes.
The 23rd annual Beach Soccer Blast will take place August 9-11 at Spanish Banks Beach East.
