Touches Of Brazil On Brighton Beach
Published 16th Aug 2006 by Mark Bisson

Wannabe Ronaldinho's can learn a few footballing tricks from the keepy-uppy experts when the hot new Brazilian sport of footvolley kicks off on Brighton beach this weekend.

The UK Footvolley Open, sponsored by Lastminute.com, is a showcase for 8 of Britain's best teams and takes place on Saturday 19 August. The tournament, which also visited Brighton last year, will be lit up by the England footvolley team and some impressive talent from Brazil.

Originating on the beaches of Rio de Janeiro, footvolley has become the new sporting craze sweeping Britain. Combining the summer sex appeal of beach volleyball with acrobatic football moves and outlandish skills, it's a sport with growing appeal to adults and kids. Footvolley has similar rules to volleyball - but the ball can be passed with any part of the body except the arms and hands.

On Saturday, spectators can watch the professionals in action and they'll also have the chance to hone their own skills. Public have-a-go sessions will be run throughout the day.

Spencer Mintram, director of organisers Yellowave Beach Sports, said: "The footvolley players ooze skill from every metatarsal. It's just incredible what they can do with the ball - they really have flair in abundance. Spectators will be treated to an exciting visual display of footballing artistry.

"The event is also an opportunity for football players of all ages to watch and learn from the UK's best footvolley players. They can then improve their keepy-uppy skills and footballing abilities in the workshops we'll be running.

"You never know, we might even see some of the Brazilian-style footvolley tricks gracing the playgrounds of local schools in the coming months!"

Spectators can watch the event for free, with many vantage points available right next to the beach court and on the upper promenade. Last year's footvolley championship at the same location was a huge success, attracting thousands of spectators.

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