BS m a g Beach Soccer Magazine
NO 05 2 0 1 8
California’s
SoCal Legacy
eyes
2018 Madjer Cup
2018 United Soccer Coaches Convention
- Beach Soccer 101
MUNDALIATO
Club World Cup
HANGING OUT WITH
AARON
CLARKE
THE MAN. HIS STYLE
Plus
Luiz Escobar Gabriel Mohagheghi Mahmud Hadejia Nathalia Murillo Nassim El Hadaoui Saganowsky Bouguslaw beachsoccermag.com
...... we bring the game to you
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CONTENTS 08. 14.
Nassim El Hadaoui
Gabriel Mohagheghi
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18. 29.
FRONTLINE
- Global Briefs - US Coaches Convention
PROFILE
- Saganowsky Bouguslaw - Luiz Escobar - Nathalia Murillo - M ahmud H adejia
COVER
FEATURE
- A fghan Beach Soccer - Mundaliato - Sesimbra Cup - SoCal Legacy
Aaron Clarke
Saganowsky Bouguslaw
Nathalia Murillo
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Mahmud Hadejia
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Meet our amazing
Contributors
Tighe O’Sullivan
Steve Citron
Marieme Ndiaye
Samuel Ahmadu
Member of the Board of Directors at US FootGolf Association (Co-Founder), Created Viaports International LLC in November 2008 to manage multiple properties under one umbrella. Founder and senior director at Pro AM Beach Soccer, a premier Beach Soccer Events in the U.S., and the first in the Western United States that features both youth and adults competitions together. Tighe is also the President of Club Marin, a Soccer club dedicated to creating ‘soccer culture’ within its community.
The President of the Southern California Beach Soccer Club and has been the head coach of a youth beach soccer team named SoCal Legacy since 2013. Legacy is a boys U17 team with a cumulative match record of 82-9-3 and has won 16 youth tournaments, including two consecutive Major Beach Soccer (MBS) National Championships in Clearwater Beach, Florida (in 2015 and 2016), The Beach Soccer Championships (aka The USA Cup) in their hometown of Oceanside, California (in 2017), and the North American Sand Soccer Championships (NASSC) in Virginia
Marieme a young Dakar based sports marketing entrepreneur currently. She spends her time profiling and providing content for several online news media, including thoughts on beach soccer trends. She is also a radio presenter with Radio FM Senegal and Radio Convergence FM. Among many strings to her bow, she is a volunteer media officer for the Senegal National Beach Soccer Team, so it’s no surprise she’s particularly passionate about the sport.
Sam is the Founder and managing editor of SavidNews. com, and Senior Correspondent with Goal.com is a sports journalist with a passion. He is a member of advisory panel for BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year award and a strong women football advocate. He has covered several international sporting events in South Africa, Canada, Cameroun, Ghana and others. The Wigan Athletic fan, with several award nominations including the Nigeria Sports Awards looks forward to winning the CNN Journalist award someday.
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ISSUE 05 March 2018
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T & S Club 24 Hayter Road, London, SW2, United Kingdom EDITOR IN CHIEF
The best of 2018 is here yet and we have seen
amazingly stunning Beach Soccer championships
across the globe, electrified by stars and legends of the game, a few of which we had the honour of exclusively feature for your treat in this fifth Issue of BSmag. From Saganowsky the Polish legend who is still active even after international retirement, to the safe hands of Nathalia the Colombia beauty, and Aaron Clarke the self styled English beach soccer star, and much more.
Taye Olajide ASSOCIATE EDITOR Patricia TO C O N T R I B U T O R S Tighe O’Sullivan Marieme Ndiaye SteveCitron Samuel Ahmadu PHOTO CREDITS FIFA Media BSWW GRAPHICS & LAYOUT. BSmag SPECIAL CONSULTANT.
Also in this issue, we had a slight peak into the last edition of Copa Lagos Beach Soccer reporting the exploits Kebbi BSC, the new kid on the sands. The Club Chairman reviles how the young Nigerian club out of no where gave an impressive performance at their debut international appearance. As we invite you once again to enjoy another issue of BSmag, we look forward to your feedback via any of our channels.
KEDE AIHE AD SALES Samson Mangga (AFRICA) +234 80359 287 18 Josep Maldonado Smith (UK/IRELAND) +34 605 3016 22 Richard Ojeabulu (US/Bahamas)
+242 559 6440
Taye Olajide.
Femi Oladele (Japan/Asia) +817014068600
Twitter / Instagram / Facebook beachsoccermag DISCLAIMER Some photographs and materials in this publication were obtained from readily available public sources. Email: beachsoccermag@gmail.com www.beachsoccermag.com 14 Ziguinchor Street, Zone 4 Abuja. beachsoccermag.com
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FRONTLINE / Briefs
G LO B A L
BRIEFS M
ozambique Ta u Ta u are Mozambique’s beach soccer champions for the first time after nigeria beating Ancora 3-1 in the final of Spain, Arsenal BSC crowned winners the Copa de Futebol de Praia. in Lagos. The Spaniards clinched the title in the international group while Arsenal topped the club challenge.
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ruguay B r a z i l
added a new honour to their never-ending list of trophies. The Verdeamarela edged Argentina in the penalty kick shootout of the final to claim the CONMEBOL Suramericano U20 in Montevideo.
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t FC Lokomotiv Moscow crowned Mundialito kings again! Becoming the first team to seal the Mundialito throne for the second occasion following their victory over Iranian side Pars Jonoobi in the final.
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E
lsalvador
La Pirraya, Salvadoran national champions. Thanks to a tight 6-5 victory over Barra de Santiago to prevail in the Salvadoran National Beach Soccer Championship final at the Costa del Sol stadium.
abul
21 Centor y Club win Kabul Winter Games. The first beach soccer event to take place in the country during ran the winter. The event ran over The hosts successfully retained eight days and their Persian Beach Soccer Cup saw 11 teams. title in a 4-2 victory over Spain.
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ussia
Lokomotiv Moscow ended their five-year wait for a fourth Russian title after beating defending champions BSC Kristall.
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ngland
Arsenal BS won the English National League title in London on Sunday with a 7-2 win against the defending champions Silesia BS St Neots.
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ermany 2015 champions
Rostocker Robben are German champs after upsetting holders BSC Ibbenbüren in final to claim back National glory.
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anzania anzibar Zanzibar are Copa Dar es Salam Zanzibar Beach Soccer hosted their Beach Soccer 2017 champions. South African counterpart to a 6-0 loss in an international friendly,
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araguay UAA are the new
S
enegal Beach Golf BSC
Paraguayan champions!. The Asunción based side takes Puerta anzibar del Lago’s crown following a win San Miguelito claimed their second Panama over Aregüeña in the National National Beach Soccer Championship held at the Club Campestre el Beach Soccer Championship. Bramadero, in Penonomé.
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P
eru
Brazil crowned South American kings again! The Verdeamarela bend Paraguay in the final of the Copa America Fútbol Playa Perú 2018.
wins all three matches to emerge the National Champions held at the Diamalaye Beach in Dakar.
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FRONT LINE / On the Pitch
T I G H E
O ’ S u l l i v a n 2018 United Soccer Coaches Convention - Beach Soccer 101
F
ebruary 19th, 2018 was a big day in the history of beach soccer in the United
States. It’s the day two of the largest soccer organizations in the world for coaches and youth players recognized beach soccer as a sharp tool found in the shed for developing players to a higher potential. The educational session named “Beach Soccer 101” was introduced by the United Soccer Coaches (formerly “The National Soccer Coaches Association of America”) and sponsored by the United States Youth Soccer Association as a teaching tool for the development of players through the sport played in the sand.
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each Soccer which FIFA describes as the “Celebration of the Beautiful Game” got
a long awaited shot in the arm in the United States. FIFA and Beach Soccer World Wide, based in Barcelona, have been waiting patiently for the sport to grow in North America. This introduction will spark further confidence in the direction of the growth of the game, but has also given coaches, directors, and state associations a glimpse at a revolutionary way to improve the standard of play on grass in the United States.
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FEATURE
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his shift to include beach soccer as an educational tool by both organizations
has also been well received in state associations as executive directors and their representation came away looking to be part of the US Beach Soccer National Championship in 2018. It presented opportunity for state associations to add to their offer to clubs and players to develop. They now have a reason for coaches to train their players in this medium and to increase their soccer acumen exponentially.
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he session itself covered a large range of subjects important to the sport. It began
simply with “Why Beach Soccer” which clearly defined the expediency in which coaches can take advantage of the S.A.Q.’s (Speed, Agility, Quickness) not only more creatively, but much quicker than any avenues they have explored previously. For example, the idea of “Running
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hether we are speaking to better balance, concentration, composure,
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he presentation continued by introducing specific rules needed to be understood,
or striking the ball off the uneven surface the
as well as what a 2 hour progressive techni-
years is a perfect illustration of how a player
beach offers a plethora of opportunities for
cal/tactical training session could look like,
builds and strengthens tendons and fast
technical and tactical ideas which are new
in the sand. It addressed the importance
twitch muscle fibers to make them faster and
and challenging to a young player thirsting
of the goalkeeper, who is considered the
stronger when returning to grass. In addition,
for greater knowledge. This while creating
quarterback and most important player on the
it addressed the emphasis of the last decade,
greater interest and increased motivation.
team, as well as the emphasis needed on set
or more, of moving away from flighted balls
Players cannot hide in the sand and must
pieces and the importance of the composure
to the “tiki taka” short controlled passing
move, so the effort you will see from your
needed to be taught not to foul. It wrapped
game. This inevitably has led to players losing
players will also surprise most coaches at first.
up with videos and illustrations on how to
composure to address the ball in the air. We
Then they can use this to their advantage in a
begin to teach your players how to bike and/
all want our players to play in tight possession,
multitude of ways which will improve learning
or overhead kick. This is not only fun for the
but we also have a clear sense of reality when
and the excitement of new challenges and
kids, but from my personal experience of over
these kids are under pressure, a vast majority,
skills which have not been tried in the grass...
25 years of coaching on the grass it leads to
will put the ball in the air especially if a wide
including the bike kick!
more fantastic goals from your players as their
in High Heels” which I have been touting for
confidence and concentration of meeting the
player looking to unload a cross. But, we don’t emphasize it nearly as decades gone by.
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K
o Ishikawa, a Bolivian, Tahuichi 80’s/90’s player, in the era of Marco Etcheverry, and
each Soccer emphasizes everything play-
now coach of the Japanese Profession team
ers don’t train on the grass, and with what
Tokyo Fusion once commented to me, “Of all
ball skyrockets with this introduction and continued practice of this skill. Their bodies will move and adjust in ways you will have never seen before introducing them to the beach.
we do, it adds an incredibly different element
the types of futbol one can compete, Beach
changing the players perspective. Earlier kids
Soccer more than any other, by far takes the
are mastering the “three small toes” for scoop-
most technique, and is without a doubt, the
ing and flicking to teammates and essentially
most tactical and strategic one can play“. So
giving them great familiarity with addressing
simply putting them in the sand in a fun envi-
ers to the technique and tactics of beach soc-
flighted balls. Not to mention greater strength
ronment not only creates an alternative way
cer. We can all honestly understand this and
and comfort in passing and striking using the
of thinking and approaching the game, but in
know the fact it’s a fun and alternative way to
outside of the foot.
turn makes them stronger, faster, and smarter
get more out of your players. Not to mention,
when they return to the grass.
the proven bonding experiences we have seen
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e have gone into decent depth in regards to explaining how there are so
many benefits to introducing your young play-
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FEATURE
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his funny enough was a new concept even to myself which I could not help but
include as yet another practical illustration on why the fundamentals of beach soccer help improve a players. The ability to play with a different frame of mind gives them a sharp advantage over other players who have not. Maybe if they had the experience of lifting and scooping they would have been able to maintain more strength throughout the match? Maybe they will get the chance to find out in the future? It is not difficult to understand the advantage a team would have in those conditions with beach skills. Pugg Owner Bob Armel. Mr. Armel historically has been one of the biggest promoters of beach soccer in the United States sponsoring multiple events in the sports beginning around 2005.
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t the end of the day, let’s just talk facts. Beach Soccer offers players an alternative
opportunity to enhance their soccer acumen, develop quicker, stronger, and faster players. from clubs coming to tournament in force
in those conditions. At halftime he explained
The game itself averages 9 goals per game
with 20 or more teams as the chance for the
how he tried to tell the players they needed to
with a shot every 30 seconds. Player’s cannot
club to come together closer as a community
get the ball off the ground, out of the mud and
hide in the sand and simply work harder and
with a weekend on the beach. But outside of
water, and keep the ball in the air. The players
improve quicker in many aspects which are
the obvious, what other practical ways can
were amiss and the logic just didn’t settle in as
almost entirely transferable back to the grass
these skills truly be those sharp new set of
they had never been trained in a way to lift the
game. This is NOT ROCKET SCIENCE. There is
tools to be taken out of the shed?. In speak-
ball and carry on in the air. But with his advice
a reason why Brazil is Brasil and whether you
ing to one of the Directors of Coaching in
and constant reminders they picked up on it
talk about futsal or beach soccer this is some-
California about beach soccer he stated I was
in the 2nd half and improved their play. But,
thing the United States needs to put more
speaking to the choir. Josh Kalkstein, Techni-
the reality was it was June in Indiana, and who
emphasis on. We need to create better players
cal Director of Soccer Operations at Marin FC
would of thought, as they didn’t have rain gear
for the future, so we don’t embarrass ourselves
Alliance, reminded me how in the community
as they were fatigued and frozen to the bone
with another exclusion from the World Cup.
we no longer play in water bogged fields.
by the end of the first half with more interest
Europe, Africa and even Asia have discovered
Whether this is due to field turf conversions, or
in the hot shower at the hotel than getting the
this as their beach national teams have also
because the new generation of players don’t
result.
excelled in recent years, but here in the United
get their “feet wet” like they used to, it was clear where he was heading. He described a recent trip his Northern Californian team took to a DA (US Development Academy) showcase competition in June of last year in Indiana. On the last day of the event it was pouring rain and the field was more than ankle deep with water. The players were at a total loss as they tried to kick the ball harder throughout the first half, which we all know simply just wears them out, with more frustration than progress. It was clear to him the other teams based on the east coast had more experience playing
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States with the emphasis more on the youth
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e clearly stated if his players had ever
it will pay dividends across the board in the
trained in the sand and developed those
future. So the moral of the story is learn how
techniques then the ideas he was expressing
to teach it!
would not have been foreign to them. Kalkstein believes they definitely would have had more success and quite frankly fun play-
Y
ou can get more information on our YouTube channel “YourBeachSoccer” also
ing in the difficult environment if they were
on our website www.proambeachsoccer.net
not fatigued by half time. Having played on
for updates as it becomes available.
the beach himself over the last few decades he
hopes to see greater emphasis as he realized how much it would have helped his team.
Tighe O’Sullivan
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S
AGANOSKI BOGUSLAW
“I still feel a part of the Beach Soccer Community”
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profile / FEATURE
B S
- Who is Sagan? - Hard to say, difficult to speak about oneself. I’m an ordinary family guy,
and my biggest passion is Beach Soccer.
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- It was known that 2017 World Cup would be your last international appearance for
your country, after a daring comeback. Looking back at your outing in the Bahamas, do you feel you’ve had a fulfilling international career?
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- I decided to finish playing for the National team, my story began at the
World Cup in Brazil and ended at the World Cup in the Bahamas, great way to finish. As a competitor naturally, I’d like to do more but I also have some feeling of fulfillment.
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foundly called is the most recognizable player in the
history of Polish Beach Soccer since 2016. He has been associated with the team of KP Łódź, featured at the Polish championships, Polish Cup, Polish Super Cup, the Euro Winners Cup 2015, 2016 World Championships and 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.
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- Your story is quite inspiring, driven by
striking mid fielder, born March 6, 1977 in Sagan as
agan who also played on the grass and indoor football variety (futsal) has a son called Erik, named in honor of
Eric Cantona.
true love. Would you consider penning
down these life experiences?
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- Haven’t thought about it but could be an interesting read.
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- Describe your personal feelings at the ceremonial exit accorded you after your
final game with Tahiti at the last Beach Soccer World Cup in the Bahamas.
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- It was great, an exceptional feeling, yet on the other hand I understood it
was the end of a part of my life. I would really miss playing in the national colours.
B S
- Everyone knows you are retired but not tired, what next? - Each time I go out on the sand I become a warrior and until I have
the strength, health and will, it’ s not likely to change. The fact that I no longer play for the National team does not mean you won’t see me around as I still feel strongly a part of the Beach Soccer Community.
B S
- Thank you for your time and we wish you the best. - Thank you for having me.
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KILO ALFA CO. LTD.
#203 5-4 Toyotamakita, Nerima-ku, Tokyo, JAPAN 1760012 Tel: +81-3-6721-0952 / Fax: +81-3-6721-0952 Info@kiloalfa.co.jp Produced by
We provide worldwide service
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AARON CLARKE BSWW AMBASSADOR ENGLAND BEACH SOCCER CAPTAIN ARSENAL ACADEMY COACH ARSENAL BSC CAPTAIN SABLE DANCER
Representing your country is a dream come true, but to be able to represent over a 100 games leaves me speechless.” Clarke
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COVERE
Club
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A aron Clarke is English pro Beach
Soccer star who plays forward for
Arsenal club and the England Beach Soccer national team.
Considered one of the
best on the sand, is listed among the first twenty Beach Soccer global ambassadors recently appointed by Beach Soccer Worldwide and regarded by many as a player with high skills and fine touch. His many individual and team awards includes; - Copa Lagos club champions 2017 - Virginia Beach Soccer champions - English league champions - English Super Cup champions - Dunkerque Trophy champions - USA Oceanside champions - Sal Cup runners up - Malmo Cup winners - Barbados league champions. Here we present our short chat with the star, his personality and passion.
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ho is Aaron Clerk? am the England and Arsenal current beach soccer captain. I started play-
ing beach soccer in 2013 with Thailand being my Debut tour. In the tournament we played Portugal, Germany and Thailand. I scored my debut goal against Portugal which was an amazing feeling.
try to compete in tournaments all around the
COVER
world.
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hat else takes your time aside beach soccer and are you involved in a project
you’ll like to share?
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am also a football coach for the Arsenal Academy and this is my 8th season
coaching the elite boys from 9-16 years old
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ou are widely traveled playing the game, which destination would be your favorite
and why?
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have been to many tournaments in different countries but I really like Nigeria’s
Copa Lagos, I have always been welcomed to this tournament with open arms and the fans always provide us with amazing support.
with the academy. I have worked with some great coaches and learnt a lot which has also benefited my beach soccer career.
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ou were recently capped a 100, what does this mean to you and how would this
impact your career going forward?
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epresenting your country is dreams come true but to be able to repre-
C C
opa Lagos, tell us about it your experience at the last edition. opa Lagos 2017 was another amazing tournament, this is the first time I
have played in the Clubs tournament. I think the beach soccer in Nigeria is a very good standard. When we were preparing for championship, I knew we would play against physically stronger and quicker teams so my training focus was more on technical and mental parts of the game in order to be one step ahead. I feel Nigerian beach soccer is improving year by year and I look forward to see what it is like at the Copa Lagos 2018 edition.
sent your country over 100 games leaves me speechless. However I could not have achieved this without my team mates who have been with me every step of the way and helped me progress as a player. I have also worked with quite a few coaches like Angelo Schirinzi, Angel Lopez Torres and Ramiro Amarelle who have all helped me immesely in my career.
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ould you be willing to take up coaching full time?
enjoy coaching but don’t
think I will go in to management, for
T A
ell us a bit about your club. rsenal BS had a successful season last year winning five trophies, three in
England & two international.
now I’m focused on playing and trying to improve as an individual and as a team. I have only been playing this
H
ow have you been able to perfectly blend
sport for 5 years so
your pro career in beach soccer with your
there is still a lot to
other engagements?
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learn and I’m enjoy-
each soccer is something I enjoy and
ing the process and
have wanted to do for years, I remem-
look forward to the
ber being a child and watching the Sport on
future.
TV and now to be able to represent my country and play the sport all around the world is dreams come true. Beach soccer has to be a priority for me in order to improve therefore I make sure I am available to train every day and
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hank you ou’re welcome
anytime.
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uiz was studying to become a professor of Physical Education at the University of the State of Rio de Janeiro (UERJ) in 2015, and just like ordinary days, several lectures were taking place on various subjects but one was about physical fitness in the beach soccer by Gilberto Costa (currently the head coach of the Brazilian Beach Soccer National Team). This particular lecture got him excited and led to securing internship with the Brazilian national team then headed by Alexandre Soares. The following conversation ensued his first day on the job; Soares - Which path will you take, Coach or fitness trainers? Luiz - How many Coaches do you have? Soares - About 16, Luiz - How many physical trainers do you have? Soares replied that he had only Gilberto Costa as fitness trainer, and then Luiz knew that was his path. After few months with the Brazilian team, and his first international experience, Luiz moved to South Africa as technical assistant with the national team headed by Marcelo Mendes. It was a special project with more than sixty children learning to play beach soccer. In 2007, Luiz got invited by Marcelo Mendes to be the physical trainer for the UAE Beach Soccer team, then preparing for their first FIFA World Cup that was held in Brazil. This was a huge challenge due to the short time available and cultural difference, but overall, the UAE had a good first time appearance. “I had the privilege working with a fantastic group and a great
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manager, Bader Harib who provided me with the best working conditions”. Later in 2008, he returned to the Brazilian team as assistant coach (physical trainer), this was yet another great challenge for someone who only had 3 years’ experience in the sport. And between the years of 2008 and 2011 was indeed a sublime period for Luiz, because he had an exponential professional growth with the most successful national side. These periods, Brazil had her first appearance at the CONMEBOL qualification tournament held in Argentina with an unbeaten run, and also for the first time on a European soil (France) their FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup outside of Brazil.
Till date, Luiz has been head coach of important teams around the world, from SC Corinthians Paulista a Brazilian team in the club Mundialito 2015 and the following year, Botafogo F R for two years where his journey really began. He restructured Botafogo in the national and international scenario, secured great national achievements in the face of daunting challenges. And in 2016 he moved to the Hungarian Federation facilitated by Bruno Malias Mendes. There he developed an excellent project working across all the ages. “I had the privilege of working with many young people thirsty to learn about the game and I relived the energy of a smile on the face of a child”.
2009, now experienced, but having less responsibility since Brazil underwent a reformulation, with the retirement of some athletes. Luiz initiated a physical monitoring program for athletes to be kept in high performance all year. And in that year, the team had an exceptional physical performance that culminated with yet another FIFA World Cup title in Dubai.
He was also part of a unique project in South Africa organized by the Hungarian Federation for two years. Following this exploits, beach soccer was introduced to Debrecen University, unifying practice with knowledge. Currently, he is working with the head coach of the Al Arabi Sporting Club in Kuwait to help development of beach soccer.
Following the World Cup in Ravenna, Luiz had a two year disconnect with beach soccer. “It was the moment when I learned to value my true friends, a very difficult time”.
“Fascinating culture and incredible atmosphere in which I’m currently working to understand, I’m convinced that if you continue to work with this professionalism, willingness and dedication, it is certain that the future of all will be brilliant to achieve higher and higher flights (inshallah)”. Luiz
But soon after in 2014 he got invited to be part of a the Botafogo Beach Soccer team, and a few months later, back to the Brazilian national team. “I had to come back because I have more to give for a sport that has given me a lot”
LUIZ ESCOBAR
Profile / FEATURE
PASSO DA SILV
HEAD COACH AL - ARABI SPORTING CLUB (KUWAIT)
Luiz, a Physical Education graduate from Rio de Janeiro State University (UERJ) and expert in Sports Training and Physiology of Exercise has the following portfolios: - Head coach of Botafogo F.R. (Brazil) 2016/2018. - Head coach of Debreceni Egyetem Atlétikai Club (Hungary) 2017. - Head coach of BFC Siófok (Hungary) 2016. - Head coach of S.C. Corinthians Paulista (Brasil) 2015. - Assistant coach (Physical trainer) of Brazil 2008/2011 and 2015. - Assistant coach (Physical trainer) of Bahamas 2017. - Assistant coach (Physical trainer) of UAE 2007. - Assistant coach (Physical trainer) of South Africa 2006.
This is what I went through, this is who I am, and maybe I can inspire people to keep going forward. Thanks to my family who always supported me in all the decisions and circumstances and gratitude to all who helped me on this journey. Luiz
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Nathalia Andrea Murillo Castaneda - BSWW Ambassador - Antioquia BSC Goal Keeper - Colombian
It’s a honour to be able to carry the flag of my country and women all over the world. Promoting Beach Soccer� - Nathalia BSWW Ambassador 2018
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Profile / FEATURE
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Profile / FEATURE BSmag - Congratulations on your BSWW ambassadorship, did you see this coming?, And how would this affect your commitment
BSmag - What would be your dream achieve-
gong forward?
ment this year?
Nathalia - It truly surprised me when I got
Nathalia - My main goal this year is to play
the news. Its indeed a honour to be able to
the Euro Winners Cup for which I have been
carry the flag of my Country and women all
training over a year. But if this doesn’t happen,
over the world, promoting the beautiful sport
I can also play the tournament in Virginia, and
where ever I go, this is my commitment which I
the European league.
have taken with pride.
BSmag - Lets go back in time, what’s your beach soccer story?
Nathalia - Beach Soccer for me started early 2015, after being introduced to the sport by Santiago Alzate; the current Coach of the Colombia national team. And from the first training day, I fell in love with the sport so I left all other sports and dedicated myself to Beach Soccer. Initially, I was the only female, as there were no other women in the team. However, this made me strong.
BSmag - Hoping to be a Coach someday ? Nathalia - Yes!, I hope to train several female and even male teams. But my desire mostly is to work with FIFA, helping to promote the sport in my capacity. It is necessary to nurture and support the growth of new talents, with a focus on young people and women.
BSmag - What else takes your time? Nathalia - I’m currently in my final year at the University of Antioquia studying Sports training. I also run a run a sports clothing company called Eleven Factory with my boyfriend and a few other partners. And I love going out with friends and family.
BSmag - Thank you for your time. Nathalia - Thank you for having me. I wish to also thank everyone for the support, particularly Antioquiq Club. And to my family, friends who has supported me, I hope to be a good ambassador, represent my country and South America the best way I can. My sponsors who have helped me get where I am today, thank you.
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Afghan beach soccer
52ndGlobal ranking and 10th in Asia, the Afghanistan Beach Soccer national team established in 2008, but did not commence effective participation in competitions till 2012 when it featured at the Asian Beach Games held in Haiyang, China crashing out at the group stages. They did not feature in the 2014, however at the 2016 edition of the Asian Games held in Da Nang, Vietnam, the Afghan team still with very limited facilities finished in an impressive fourth place. During the 2013 AFC championships, they went in with their best selection of young players, and got two victories against the host Qatar and Saudi Arabia but failed to reach the knockout stages. This also repeated at the 2017 Asian qualifiers held in Malaysia. The team now preparing for the 2019 World Cup qualifiers hopefully looks forward to their first qualification for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup.
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MUNDALIATO
CLUB
BEACH SOCCER
WORLD CUP
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FEATURE
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he Mundialito de Clubes (Club World Cup in English) is a biennial (annual until 2013) international club beach soccer
competition contested between top clubs from across the world. The tournament is loosely similar to the FIFA Club World Cup in association football, however participating teams are not regional champions, instead entering via invitation.
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rganised by Beach Soccer Worldwide (BSWW), the competition was founded by BSWW with Brazilian sports agency
Koch Tavares in 2011 and to date has always been hosted in Brazil; the tournament should not be confused with BSWW’s existing Mundialito, which takes place in Portugal for national teams. Russian side Lokomotiv Moscow are the most successful team with two titles. Brazilian clubs have always dominated with at least two clubs in the top four in every edition.
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n the first two editions (2011 and 2012), squads were specially assembled to represent well known association
football clubs from around the world, incarnated purely to compete in this event. Players of many nationalities (of which they were the best of) were invited to play; they were then allocated to one of the clubs specifically for the purpose of the event using a draft system conducted by BSWW.
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ince 2013, the draft system has been retired. Clubs and their squads that compete either already exist before-
hand competing in their respective domestic club league in their country or remain specially assembled purely for this competition, but now with squads materialised behind the scenes with players choosing to play for said team at their own discretion.
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argem-Grande Paulista Sao Paulo hosted the 2017 edition for the first time. It brough together international
beach soccer giants in a electric atmosphere. Botafogo, Flamengo and Corinthians were on home soil, as CA Rosario Central, Iranian Pars Jonoobi, Levante UD, Sporting Clube de Portugal all wanting the biggest part of the cake. But the 2012 champions FC Lokomotiv Moscow became the first team to seal the Mundialito throne for the second occasion, following their narrow win over Iranian side Pars Jonoobi in the final of the competition.
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NASSIM
EL HADAOUI
With over 480 goals in club and national team appearance, Nassim, the Moroccan legend has got no end in sight to his quest for more glory, including Top scorer at the BSWW Morocco Tour 2014/ 2015, Best Player at BSWW Morocco Tour of 2014, 2015 and 2017. Also, Top Scorer at the 2015 Istanbul Cup, Top Scorer 2014 Dubai Intercontinental Cup and recently Top Scorer Copa Lagos 2017. Awarded over 40 Times Man of the match awards, the North African star also has the following team awards to his credits; - 2nd place France League 2014 - Champions France League 2015 - 2nd place Swiss League 2012 - Champins Swiss League 2013 - Champions Swiss Cup 2012 and 2013 - Champions Italian League 2015 - Italy Cup Champion 2015 - 3rd Place Spanish League 2016 - Morocco League Champion 2013-2017 - Champion Morocco BSWW Tour 2014-2015 and 2016. - 2nd place Morocco BSWW Tour 2017 - 3 times quarter finalist Euro Champions League - 2 times semi finalist AFCON Beach Soccer BSmag - Tell us a little about yourself and family Nassim – I’m 30 years old, the eldest of a fraternity of 4 children. I was born into a sporting family, my father being a great player in the history of Moroccan and French football and my mother a half-field and windsurfing athlete. BSmag - You have been a consistent player and recently recorded your 100th goals for your country. What does this mean to you and do you see this number doubled soon? Nassim – I’m very happy because it was a goal for me, and yes I still hope to mark the history of the Moroccan Beach Soccer, to reach the 200 goals would be something remarkable for me, and with hard work everything is possible.
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Profile / FEATURE
“I think it is time for BSWW and FIFA to trust Africa for this, not only in Morocco but also Nigeria, South Africa or Egypt. The World Cup has gone through all continents except Africa it’s time we are considered”. - Nassim BSmag - Reflecting over your career. If you were to step back and choose between playing on the grass or sand, would you always choose beach soccer? BSmag - Your family all involved in beach soccer, Dad a coach, Mum event planner, your brother and you play for the national team. How did this happen? Nassim - Everything evolved naturally, my parents introduced Beach Soccer to Morocco in 2005, after that my brother and I participated in a lot of youth tournament which we often win, with him as best player and I top scorer. I joined the national team in 2007 and my brother in 2012. It’s a great opportunity to share such moments with family. BSmag - Is being in same team as your brother and coached by your father having any influence on your quality of play and career decisions? Nassim – Yes !, great positive influence, In my Career, my father is always a guide for me because he has the experience and to realize before me a great career of player. On the field it is very special but it is a happiness, when I play for my father, he is proud of me and that I help him to carry the team and our flags as high as possible. My brother is a warrior and he is very talented and I’m always eager to play by his side. BSmag - Describe a typical connection between yourself, brother and father on the field of play that produced a perfectly desired result. Nassim – It’s a pretty special connection because all three are competitor, we love to win. In a fair match with a simple gaze we can transmit messages and understand each other message perfectly without anyone else knowing what’s happening. It’s truly a blessing from God to allow me to live such moments and I feel lucky to be able to have them on my team.
Nassim – Yes!, It’s on that I would choose the sand because I am addicted to the beautiful game played barefoot on sand, it allows to live unique moments, and discover the world. And I’m always proud to wear the jersey of Morocco beach soccer. I would always choose Beach Soccer 100% BSmag - Are you considering stepping into your father’s shoes someday?... Coaching? Nassim – I hope so someday. I passed my degrees in Coaching, and got the CAF licenses D, C, B while waiting for the A course. I already assist my father in his duties as a Coach and I hope one day to follow his path and continue the great work he has already put in place. BSmag - Your numerous awards and trophies should be a full cabinet now. Do you think the passion for the game would naturally transmit to your kids? Nassim – I would like, but honestly I can’t impose anything on them. However, I would advise them to play active sports because it is a school of life that we learn beautiful values. As my parents did for me and I thank them immensely. BSmag - Morocco is rated top five in the continent, and one of the best destination. Do you think it can host the World Cup soon? Nassim – Morocco is ready to host the world, we have the perfect natural location and great hotels that are needed for such an event. I think it is time for BSWW and FIFA to trust Africa for this, not only in Morocco but also Nigeria, South Africa or Egypt. The World Cup has gone through all continents except Africa it’s time we are considered. BSmag - Thank you .
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Dr. Gabriel Mohagheghi
President Real Munster Beach Soccer Club
Who is Gabriel Mohagheghi. M - I’m a Medical Doctor and President of Real Munster Beach Soccer Club. Tehran born, but came to Germany for studies 13 years ago. I’m a graduate of Experimental Science and I currently practice in a Germany Hospital. And talking about sports, I have played active soccer since childhood, with the hights being the age of nineteen in 1st and 2nd devision of under 21 teams. But unfortunately, I got an injury which put an end to my active soccer career, and then became a manager of my own club. And now fully involved in soccer and sport management. You wear many caps, a medical practitioner, Soccer club manager. How have you been able to combine these successfully? M - As you know, I‘m President and owner of Real Münster and not trainer. But since soccer has been my life long passion, I am fully tied up by sport rather than my jobs and anything else. Moreover, I have been thought to be organized during the time I studied in Germany and it helps me to manage how to do my duties in best way. I am learning to be better time by time and hoping to manage all of them in best way.
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You recently led you club to a training tour of Senegal, tell us a bit about this exploit. M - One of our crucial plans is to have good collaboration with countries with potentials of the best beach soccer players in world. In my opinion Senegal is one of these. Our main goal is to become one of best clubs in world in the next six years, since we started three years ago. Therefore we still have 3 years to go. We are one of best teams in Bundesliga and in next season and we are hoping to be champions of Germany. And to be on the right track, we recruited two Senegalese players into our team for the next three years. We also plan to establish a beach soccer academy in future where the Senegalese FA and sponsors would supports. We believe the academy plays a vital role to recruit more talented players and would create the much desired link between African players and Europe clubs. It would be a huge advantage for all parties. It appears you are poised to fortify your club, are you looking to sign more players? M - Good players from different countries and continents are always welcomed to our team. Our arms are always open to any player who can help us to make our dreams come true.
Profile / FEATURE
Last year your club finished in 3rd place at the Bundesliga (German Beach Soccer League ), what should we expect this season? M - As I mentioned above, although the competitions are more intense this year, but we are quite optimistic that we would be champions of the Bundesliga this year.
And lastly, how soon can we see Real Munster bsc at the Mundialito de Clubes ? M - Although the Europe Winners Cup is really intense, we will do our best to win it in next 3 years and represent European clubs in Mundialito de Clubes.
Do you have any project your club is engaged you like to share with us? M – We are Planning to have an international club tournament in Mßnster. But unfortunately the time is short and this may not happen as desired which we are so sorry about that. But it will gave us more time to prepare our team for not only Bundesliga but also for Europ Winners Cup. Moreover, recall I mentioned we are establishing a Beach Soccer Academy in Senegal which is a very important project.
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MAHMUD HADEJIA …K P I
CEO EBBI beach soccer
lease tell us about yourself ’m Mahmud Hadejia, the Chairman of Kebbi Beach Soccer Club and also a serving member of the Beach Soccer and Futsal committee of the Nigerian Foot-
ball Federation. My academic background is Project Management and Marketing from Leicester’s Demontfort University in the UK. My love for sports goes way back to my childhood., Although I played basketball and Polo among others, but play leisure soccer only and I have got some great soccer skills to show. Currently my obsession is Beach Soccer, a full-time commitment to promote and develop the sport.
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hy beach soccer?, Why Kebbi? Both are clearly two extremely different brands but you have managed to make a fine cocktail of it.
each Soccer being a unique sport, a perfect blend of soccer action, entertaining drama, and entertainment with lots of goals. I followed the sport keenly, before
its introduction to Kebbi by myself and some friends. To state the fact, Beach Soccer prematurely existed in Kebbi with kids playing barefoot on sands. The challenge was we never had the opportunity to learn and play according to the Laws of the
“I’ll like to urge all FA Chairmen to collaborate with the private sector on the introduction of the game.”
Game but we still called it Beach Soccer anyway. But having realized what was missing, we took that bold step and the rest is now history as Kebbi is now the home of Beach Soccer in Nigeria under just three years of its introduction.
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ell us about your annual tournaments. he first edition of Kebbi Beach Soccer Sallah Tournament was held in 2015 featuring only Kebbi based teams. But over the years it has grown to become
a national tournament with teams from other states battling for the prestigious trophy. Its timing of Sallah (Eid-Fitr) festive holiday period makes it quite unique in the calendar year. People troupe in from all works of life to experience the excitement of beach soccer. It always a carnival atmosphere with lots of traditional and cultural display as side attractions. In 2017, the Nigerian Football Federation provided technical support which raised the standards, and teams from other parts of the country participated. The Kebbi State Government has always gave maximum support, His Excellency the Executive Governor, his family and cabinet members are regular patrons of the event as it has evolved to become a viable brand promoting sports tourism and socio-economic in Kebbi State. It would interest you to know that the tournament was recently awarded as the best sports event of the year 2017 in the region.
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Profile / FEATURE
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our club had a debut appearance at the 2017 edition of Copa Lagos Beach Soccer, what does this mean to the club? eah I must admit Copa Lagos was a wonderful experience
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hat are your plans and ambitions for the club? he plan is to continue doing the right things and improve in areas we have challenges. Already we have
for the Kebbi Beach Soccer club popularly known as Kebbi
drawn up a programme and the popular annual Kebbi beach
fishers. We were underdogs going into the tournament as debu-
soccer sallah tournament 2018 fourth edition comes up later in
tants but our hard work made the difference. Ahead the competi-
the year. But largely, our ambition as a club is to participate in
tions, we hired an experienced technical team led by Coach Abdul-
tournaments both in Nigeria and internationally. Our dream is to
lahi Isa who is CAF licensed and a coach with the Sand Eagles, and
have a world class Beach Soccer stadium facility in Kebbi that can
club had several training matched with the national team. All these
host international matches. but personally, I want to change and
built a lot of confidence necessary for a fresh club going into an
improve lives positively, give a platform to young players who
international tournament. And this was evident in our 9 -11 narrow
haven’t had the right opportunity. A recent example is Umar Bu-
loss to Arsenal Beach Soccer Club in the opening match, a much ex-
langi, the Club’s pioneer captain who got called into the National
perienced side being the English Champions. However, we won our
team.
subsequent games and eventually were tied on same points with Arsenal log table but the head to head rule gave it to the European boys. We felt accomplished all the same, being out first outing, picking up Man of the match awards in all games played.
The team also set the record of the highest number of goals (26) scored in a single edition of Copa Lagos tournament.
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ow challenging has it been running the club? o be honest challenges do come but we have managed to overcome most of them as they Appear, As we have
a committed and passionate players and experienced manage-
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id you see your appointment into the NFF Beach Soccer committee coming?, And how would this help grow the
game?
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irst of all, am not sure I saw it coming, non the less, I’m ready to play my role to develop the sport in the country.
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igeria, a highly rated team particularly in the continent but no league. Do you share in the call for a league? eah sure, I agree its been long over due, but my approach is a little different. I think we need to start by encourag-
ment team. I recall, one major challenges we faced at inception
ing and supporting more states to adopt beach soccer and host
was acceptance and trust In the viability of Beach Soccer in Kebbi,
local tournaments. This would ensure more teams across board,
a landlocked regions without any natural beach environment. We
then a National league would make a good sense. I therefore like
get questions like; do you even have a beach? Why are you wasting
to urge all FA Chairmen to collaborate with the private sector on
your time when you can do other regular sports? It was certainly a
the introduction of the game. This will surely go a long way mak-
bold and crazy idea but were overwhelmed by passion and I knew
ing the game more popular across all states. But to achieve all
beach soccer is played on sand not inside the water. We also taped
these, a lot of hard work and commitment is required put in place
into the culture of what attracts people, particularly soccer and
necessary structures and that’s why we need the Governments
how the timing of the tournament will fit in to attract large crowds.
and the organized private sector.
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hank you for your time.
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Sporting CP wins
2018 CUP
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S
esimbra Cup 2018 Beach Soccer Tournament organized by DMC Events in collaboration with the
Parish Council of Castelo Sesimbra was held between the 30th March and 1st of April 2018 at Ouro Beach Stadium in Sesimbra city of Portugal.
Sesimbra Cup 2018 Rating 1º Sporting CP 2º Casa Benfica Loures 3º GR Amigos da Paz 4º CF Chelas 5º Real Munster 6º GD Sesimbra 7º GD Alfarim 8º ACRUT Zambujalense 9º ACD Sótão 10º GR Olival Basto
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he tournament in its 2nd edition featured a total of twelve teams drawn from the elite and national divi-
sions of the Portuguese Championships, also had Real Münster Beach Soccer club of Germany a guest International team invited for the tournament. A total of 24 games were played over three days, with Sporting Clube de Portugal lead by the legendary Madjer winning all games to emerge winner of Sesimbra Cup 2018.
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he annual event sponsored by Mário Narciso the National Beach Soccer Coach is already adopted into
every team’s schedule, since it opens the Portuguese Beach Soccer Season .
Best player Ricardo Ferraz - Missé (C.F. Chelas) Top scorer Duarte Vivo (Sporting CP) Best goalkeeper Tiago Petrony (Sporting CP
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California’s SoCal Legacy Look to win
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2018 MADJER’S CUP
EXTRA
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oCal Legacy, a competitive youth beach soccer team from Oceanside, California, USA has accepted an invitation from Figueira Beach Sports City to compete in the first annual Madjer Youth Cup, being hosted at Buarcos Beach in Figueira da Foz, Portugal this summer.
The competition is endorsed by one of the greatest beach soccer players in the world, João Victor Saraiva, better known as “Madjer”, who plays for the Portuguese National Beach Soccer Team and is a strong advocate for the sport. “Expectations are undoubtedly very high, considering that it will be the first international youth tournament held worldwide”, said Madjer, the sport’s greatest ambassador, “this is a tournament which comes to fill an existing gap in the beach soccer world.” The event is also sanctioned by Beach Soccer World Wide (BSWW), the organizing body
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designated by FIFA to manage all aspects of beach soccer as
But more importantly than their statistics and match track record,
a professional sport. “A competition of this kind, that involves
the team has been able to convert their performances into first
young players and enhances the formative aspect of our sport
place medals and trophies, having won 16 local and national tour-
is great news!” said Joan Cuscó, the longstanding CEO of BSWW,
naments, including several contests in various locations across
“Besides being played in one of the cradles of our sport,
the United States. They have been a dominate force at the local
as is Portugal, with the name of one of the greatest ath-
Southern California tournaments, such as in Soccer in the Sand’s
letes of beach soccer ever, the expectations could not be
Coronado Island National Qualifier and Copa Cabana’s El Segundo
greater,” he stated, highlighting the importance of such con-
Tournament, which Legacy has won 3 and 4 years in a row respec-
tests in a recent interview posted on the BSWW web site.
tively, but their most impressive championship titles include two consecutive Major Beach Soccer (MBS) National Championships in
The first edition of the competition will include both a U16
Clearwater Beach, Florida (in 2015 and 2016), and their more recent
and U18 age division, for players with birth years of 2003/2004
title victories at The Beach Soccer Championships (aka The USA
and 2001/2002 respectively. Twelve to sixteen teams will be
Cup) in their hometown of Oceanside, California, in addition to the
placed within each division, for a total of 24 to 32 teams,
most prestigious youth beach soccer tournament of all, The North
representing countries from all over the world.
An official
American Sand Soccer Championships in Virginia Beach, Virginia
opening ceremony will commence on Thursday, June 21st,
(both victories just weeks apart in 2017). The team appears well
and the finals will be held a few days later on Sunday, June
positioned for a higher level of competition, “Indeed,” states Steve
24th. The fans at beautiful Figueira da Foz will certainly be
Citron, head coach for Legacy, “we have been training with Nick
treated to hundreds of incredible beach soccer matches, at this
Perera, Captain of the US Men’s National Beach Soccer Team, since
unique, one-of-a-kind youth beach soccer festival. The orga-
2015, we have the experience of playing in nearly 100 tournament
nizers plan to expand the divisions to include U14 and U20 in
matches, and we have won all the big titles in North America, so this
subsequent years along with both male and female offerings.
international competition is truly the next logical step for the team.”
The event has attracted many teams throughout the world
Like most teams looking to compete at this first-ever international
including from countries such as the UK, Senegal, Portugal,
event, the challenge is to raise enough funding to help pay for travel
Spain, Argentina, Venezuela, El Salvador, and Switzerland. Many
related expenses. “Our most pressing need is funding to help us get
of these youth teams are being led by older professional or
the team to the event,” Citron added, “we are reaching out to our
national team coaches and players, who share a common vision
community for help in the form of donations and business sponsor-
for promoting and growing the sport. This includes Spanish
ships that can allow these deserving young men to participate in
beach soccer legend Ramiro Amarelle, who is bringing two
this important competition, as it appears we will be the only team
teams for each age division. Madjer is reportedly bringing one
there representing California and the USA.” SoCal Legacy BFC is a
team for each age division from the Sporting Lisbon youth
non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization that teaches and promotes the
academy. This kind of talent, commitment, and passion are all
sport of beach soccer and is the fundraising arm for the team. “The
the ingredients needed to ensure a highly successful event.
team has had the opportunity to travel throughout the state, and across the nation, to compete and win at these major events and
Consisting of some of the best beach soccer players nationally
this has only been possible through our many successful fundrais-
and having been hand-selected from multiple high schools and
ing events and the generosity and support of our friends, relatives
competitive soccer clubs within the region, SoCal Legacy is now
and community at large,” said Dean Gillespie, SoCal Legacy’s team
heading into their sixth straight beach soccer season and is con-
manager, “and this is our largest endeavor yet. We really need our
sidered by many as one of the best U17 beach soccer teams in
community and local businesses to help back this team, so they
North America. The team has an overall record of 82-9-3, with
can represent our state and nation on the international stage.”
most of their losses occurring back in 2013 and 2014, when they
“This is going to be an incredible experience for the players”,
were still in the very early stages of development. If you review
stated Citron, “It is the closest thing there is to a youth Beach
the statistics closely, the fact is they have only lost 3 matches
Soccer World Cup and it is attracting a lot of interest, which
since 2015, with some occurring when they were playing up in
is really great for the future of this sport.” Beach Soccer has
a higher age bracket, a strategy that their coach has frequently
been growing in popularity and has even been consid-
deployed to keep the team challenged and continually evolving.
ered for inclusion as an Olympic event on multiple occasions.
Since inception, the team has scored 629 goals and allowed only 257, which means when these young men from
“We are extremely excited to participate in the first annual Madjer
Southern California step onto the sand to compete, they
Cup”, concluded Citron, “and we’re looking forward to making history
score nearly 7 goals a match and allow less than 3 goals
with the other teams , establishing what we hope will ultimately be the
against - impressive by any measure, and exciting to watch.
premier international youth beach soccer tournament in the world.”
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SoCal Legacy BFC has created a GoFundMe campaign and has been hosting various fundraising events to help get the players onto the Portuguese sand. They are also actively seeking business sponsors who may be interested in supporting the team. See the contact information and link below to make a tax deductible donation or to discuss sponsoring the team.
Steve Citron
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