Ethan Martin played a pivotal role in Waikato Rapids' triumph in the 2024 Men’s Ford Futsal Superleague, cementing his status as one of the team’s key players. The Futsal Whites international, who played at last year’s Futsal World Cup in Uzbekistan, was also named the league’s MVP after a great season.

As the new campaign approaches, Martin shares his thoughts on Waikato’s preparations, the players to watch across the league, and what it would mean to secure back-to-back titles.

This weekend marks the start of a new edition of the Ford Futsal Superleague. How are you preparing for the first matches, and how do you see the team compared to last year?

We’ve been preparing well - we’ve been getting touches on the ball since November and have really ramped up the intensity since the new year. We know our first games against BOP Surge will be tactical and physical battles, so we've placed extra emphasis on those aspects over the last week or two.

Compared to last year, the team is largely similar. We’re missing a few players who have moved on, but we’re excited about our new additions. The mix of talented young players and experienced heads remains one of our strengths.

Is it extra pressure or motivation for you to come in as the reigning champions?

I think it’s more motivating. Coming in as reigning champs puts a target on us, but we also understand how tough and important every game is, since we scraped into finals day in the 4th spot last year.

Our goal is obviously to go back-to-back, but we know we need to take it one game at a time.

Which teams do you think could challenge for the title this year?

That’s the million-dollar question! I’ve seen some crazy results in my time - underdogs smashing top teams, top sides struggling against bogey teams all season, 4th-placed teams winning finals day, etc.

So really, it’s anyone’s game, which is what makes it so exciting. We always talk about momentum - if a team hits their stride at the right time, they give themselves a great chance to win.

Are there players from other teams you like - someone you know will always be tough to face?

I’m always impressed by Hemi Innes - he’s a great leader and I pay close attention when defending him because he can produce some magic moments.

It’s also always a bit tough playing against Hawke’s Bay Futsal. Growing up and starting my career there makes that game mean a bit more.

Otherwise, all the other Futsal Whites are great friends off the court, but once we step on, everyone’s ultra-competitive, which brings mixed emotions when going up against them.

Based on what you’ve seen from your team this year, what do you think are your strengths?

From what I’ve seen - touch wood - we really understand that a great defence unlocks a great offence.

I think we have a style of play that allows players to express themselves and bring their own flair to find success. While we emphasise strong tactics and intensity, we also want players to showcase their best qualities and be match-winners. And, of course, we have Casey Sharplin - so need I say more?

What would it mean for you to win back-to-back titles?

We’re taking it one step at a time, but it would be incredible.

We were looking at the trophy, and no team has done it before - so being part of that bit of history would be special.

Futsal is a huge part of many of our lives, and winning another title with our teammates, supporters and friends would be the least we could do to show our appreciation.

The 2025 Ford Futsal Superleague begins this Sunday, 9 February, with the Auckland Home Series and Waikato Home Series.

The Auckland Home Series will take place at Barfoot & Thompson Stadium, where Auckland City x NRF and Hawke's Bay Futsal will meet twice, at 9:00AM and 1:15PM.

Meanwhile, The Peak in Hamilton will host the Waikato Home Series, featuring four matches. In the Women's Ford Futsal Superleague, BOP Surge and Waikato Rapids will face off at 9:00AM and 1:00PM, while their men's teams will play at 11:00AM and 3:00PM.

All matches will be streamed live and free on FIFA+: https://www.plus.fifa.com/en/showcase/151c4b74-bdbc-48c0-b0ec-eafa6726f214

Article added: Friday 07 February 2025