Reflecting on 2025: A Year of Growth, Challenge, and Gratitude
As 2025 draws to a close, I’ve been reflecting on a year that has brought moments of immense joy, deep personal challenge, and tremendous progress—both in life and in the continued growth of Futsal Escocia.
Futsal Escocia Academy: A Year of Record Growth and New Ambitions
On the business side, 2025 has been one of our most exciting years yet at Futsal Escocia.
Our academy now welcomes over 400 children each week, giving more young players than ever the chance to enjoy and develop through futsal. We also saw record numbers register for our Winter Leagues, a testament to the passion, commitment, and trust our community continues to show.
This year also marked a major investment in the future of our Street Feet 3v3 programme. We introduced inflatable pitches to elevate the experience and create a unique, fast-paced environment for young footballers. Our first official 3v3 tournament takes place this Christmas, with 60 teams participating—a fantastic milestone and the foundation for something much bigger. Plans are already underway for regional and national tournaments in 2026, bringing even more opportunities to players across Scotland.
Player Development will always be at the forefront of what we deliver. Everyone connected with Futsal Escocia should be proud to see 11 players go on to represent Scotland at football and futsal whilst a number of others are lucky enough to make a living out of the game. They should provide motivation for our younger players and highlight what can be achieved through hard work, desire and sacrifices. We also know that only a tiny percentage actually go on achieve their dreams and ambitions, however, we support every player on their journey and set the foundations for challenges they will face not just on the pitch but also off it.
From a personal persepective, if they are still playing and enjoying the game into adult level we are doing well. Anything above and beyond that is a bonus.
Our Teams
I am delighted with the progress that we have made on the court. Our first team finished 2nd in the league last season and we know that there is not much between the top 5 teams in the country. Our aim is to finish in a play off position and see where that takes us. We will also look to try and win silverware in the Scottish Cup.
It is fantastic to see the likes of Sean Martin, who has been involved at Escocia since 7 years of age, make his first team debut.
The B Team is currently top of the SFL Edinburgh and finished the year for the 2025/26 session with maximum points in the league. The B Team has saw the likes of Liam Ford, Quinn Brown, Archie Clunie and Sean Martin make the step up from the u16s. This is something we take enormous pride in and they will be joined by further 2010's and 2011's in 2026.
The youth teams are progressing well with new team camps and sessions making a difference tactically. The next stage for these groups is international competitions so they understand futsal better.
Personal Journey: Highs, Lows, and the Pursuit of 1% Better
This year has been a powerful reminder of how unpredictable life can be, but also how resilient we can become when we focus on growth and lean on those around us.
One of the highest moments of my life came in Rio de Janeiro, where I got engaged to Claire—an unforgettable milestone that filled the year with happiness, excitement, and gratitude. Alongside that, I committed to fulfilling personal goals and building better habits day by day. By aiming to do 1% more every day, I’ve been able to transform my health and wellbeing in meaningful ways:
These changes helped me lose weight, feel stronger, and—most importantly—become mentally clearer and more grounded.
But 2025 was also a year of profound loss. Claire and I experienced the heartbreak of losing a child during pregnancy, and earlier in the year we faced the devastating passing of our sister-in-law to cancer. These moments reshaped us. They reminded us that while life presents difficult challenges, with the right mindset, and with the love and support of family and friends, we can move forward, carry our memories with us, and continue to grow.
Looking Ahead
2025 tested me, inspired me, and pushed me forward. I’m grateful for everyone who has been part of this journey—family, friends, colleagues, and the incredible families involved with Futsal Escocia.
As we move into 2026, I’m committed to continuing the same mindset that shaped this year: improving by 1% every day, supporting those around me, and building something meaningful for our community and beyond.
I am passionate about futsal and genuinely believe it serves as an unparalleled developmental tool for aspiring footballers. I am confident that Scotland would greatly benefit from the growth of the game and enhanced coach education. With the support of governing bodies, I am hopeful that we can achieve this.
Thanks
Thanks to all our coaches, academy and teams, for the fantastic work you do. I seriously couldn't do it without you.
Also, thanks to friends and family for your support throughout the year. It means the world to me.
Thank you all for being part of our story. Players, coaches, parents, spectators you are all part of it. Here’s to growth, resilience, and exciting new chapters ahead.
Russell Taylor - Director & Head Coach, Futsal Escocia
