Pikachu has joined up with the England squad to host a massive nationwide futsal tournament throughout England to support the National Youth Futsal programme.
The English F.A and Pokémon Company International have joined hands to host a nationwide futsal tournament in England. The pair have signed a 3-year deal with the aim of promoting participation of school and club teams from across England in their National Youth Futsal programme. Together, they will aim to make the sport a natural part of children’s football development.
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Pokémon made the announcement on their twitter. The tweet featured their Mascot, Pikachu who very cleverly wore the no.25 on his shirt. The number represents his place in the Pokedex. The electric mouse is arguably the most popular pokemon and will certainly help attract the attention of young children in the country.
Pikachu has joined up with the England squad
Anyone fancy a kickabout? ⚽
We're teaming up with @FA to host a massive nationwide futsal tournament throughout England, with the finals to be held at St. George’s Park in May 2020!
Find out how you can #MasterTheBall with Pikachu here: https://t.co/wCdulAVpVg pic.twitter.com/QM4Al1nJB0
— Pokémon UK (@PokemonNewsUK) September 6, 2019
The FA write on their website that through this partnership, they will aim to raise the profile of futsal. Futsal places emphasis on technical ability, decision making and reaction time of players; resulting in more technically confident players.
England’s Futsal head coach Michael Skubala was at St. George’s Park for the partnership launch and said:
“It’s great to have such an iconic brand as Pokémon to sit alongside Futsal development in England.
“We’ll work hard together to engage with young players so that they can experience Futsal as part of their football development. It’s an exciting, fast-paced, technical game and I know they will love it.”
Dan Kiddle, head of commercial partnerships, added:
“We’re delighted to welcome the Pokémon Company International as a partner to support our National Futsal strategy and help grow participation in England. Pokémon is an instantly recognisable brand across the world and we’re excited to work with together to encourage young players, of all abilities, to play the game of Futsal.”
The two parties will also work closely to create initiatives targeted at participating schools and clubs and will culminate at the FA National Youth Festival in May 2020. They will also support the England men’s national Futsal team.
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