TEAMS will converge on Port Macquarie this weekend for the 2017 Australian Sports Nutrition Port Futsal Cup.
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This will be the first time an international size court competition has been held in Port Macquarie, with many state and national level teams coming to compete, as well as local teams.
Eastcoast Eagles and Port Macquarie local Jess Hayes is looking forward to playing on her home court for the first time.
“I think it will be a great tournament with a lot of hard matches,” she said.
“I’m really looking forward to it, especially playing at home in Port Macquarie, which is exciting because friends and family can come and support which is a good feeling.”
Fulltime outfit Atletico Brisbane will be the team to beat, as one of the few professional fulltime teams who will be competing.
Jess’ Eastcoast Eagles team have had several run ins with the Queenslanders, making for a feisty clash when they meet this weekend.
“Brisbane and us have a bit of a rivalry and we just don’t get along with them very well, to be honest,” she said.
“They’re very competitive, a little bit dirty, but we manage it.”
Men’s player and Port local Matt Warner said it was a great chance for people to experience proper futsal.
“It’s good to play in Port, and it’s the first time I’ve played in a large futsal tournament in the town, so it gives locals a chance to see what futsal really is, instead of only watching kids run around on small courts,” he said.
“It’s a high level of competition, very intense and physical and the competition will be fierce.”
Eastcoast Eagles coach Mick Day the opening of the new addition to the stadium means this is the first time they have been able to hold an event on international size courts.
"There will be some great futsal on display with many top level players and coaches here,” he said.
“Atletico Brisbane will be the team to beat, but I’m sure the NSW teams will give them a run for their money.”
Play starts at the Port Macquarie Indoor Stadium tomorrow morning (March 25).