Ahead of the UEFA Futsal Champions League, we caught up with Raphe Barber
Background and Beginnings
Carrington, best known for its ties to Manchester United’s training ground, is home to an extraordinary young talent: Raphe Barber. Living with his Caribbean/Scottish mother and English/Welsh father, Raphe’s unique background has given him a distinct perspective on life and sports. Currently, he juggles his role as a coach for Manchester Futsal under the mentorship of Kingy, and he’s also pursuing entrepreneurial ventures in the culinary world with plans to open a Caribbean food unit with his family. Additionally, Raphe recently qualified as a lifeguard, preparing for new opportunities with Trafford Borough Council.
Introduction to Futsal
Raphe’s journey into futsal began unexpectedly. After having to leave Manchester City’s Academy due to the painful onset of Osgood-Schlatter disease in his knees, Raphe found solace in futsal. “I was introduced to futsal when my grassroots football team, Broughton, entered the Warburton Cup. Despite the pain, I couldn’t resist playing,” Raphe recalls. This pivotal moment led to a triumphant win for Broughton and introduced Raphe to a sport that would become his passion.
Watching the Manchester Futsal Team play against a select team of world-famous futsal stars and professional footballers ignited Raphe’s interest even further. After being spotted by Bolton Wanderers’ Recruitment Officer, Raphe joined their Academy and tasted victory in the International Super Cup Tournament. However, the persistent pain from his Osgood-Schlatter disease ultimately ended his football dreams, steering him towards a dedicated futsal path.
The Perfect Match
Finding Manchester Futsal’s training sessions at the local Powerleague Soccerdrome was a turning point. “It was the perfect ‘match’ for me,” Raphe says. The rolling substitutions allowed him to play through the pain and continue honing his skills. Under the guidance of coach Sam Richardson, Raphe thrived, even as he battled his knee condition.
At 16, the pain finally subsided, and Raphe was invited to join Manchester’s first team, marking the start of an impressive futsal career. His dedication and talent earned him a call-up by England Futsal, although COVID-19 and subsequent FA decisions disrupted his aspirations. Nonetheless, Raphe’s passion for futsal only grew stronger.
Influences and Inspirations
Two figures stand out in Raphe’s futsal journey: Sam Richardson and Ilya Ovechkin. “Sam was my first coach and taught me so much about the game and tactics,” Raphe shares. Ilya provided continuous support and encouragement, helping Raphe refocus his love for the game. Both mentors played crucial roles in Raphe’s development, guiding him through challenging times and nurturing his talent.
A Dynamic Sport
Raphe’s love for futsal stems from its dynamic nature. “The game requires concentration at all times and a high level of fitness,” he explains. The strategic aspects and the constant need to be available for teammates make futsal uniquely engaging. For Raphe, it’s more than a sport; it’s a way of life that demands and hones the best in its players.
Returning Home
Playing for Manchester Futsal Club feels like coming home for Raphe. “Since I began playing there at age 13, it has been great; it feels like a family,” he says. Rejoining the team after a hiatus, Raphe is eager to regain full fitness and showcase his true potential. “I hope next season I can show everybody what Raphe Barber is really about.”
Skills and Aspirations
Key to success in futsal, according to Raphe, are listening skills, ambidexterity, and effective communication. His immediate goal is to progress past the group stage in the Champions League, but he also harbors dreams of representing England’s first team once again. “I know I am more than capable of doing so,” he asserts.
Hosting the UEFA Futsal Champions League
Manchester hosting the UEFA Futsal Champions League is a source of immense pride for Raphe. “I hope we can attract people to futsal and appreciate what a great game it is,” he says. Preparing for this major event involves rigorous training and fitness, with Raphe aiming to prove that England can compete with the best in Europe.
Community Impact and Advice
Raphe believes futsal can significantly impact young athletes in his community, showcasing the high fitness levels and ball skills required to excel. His advice to budding futsal players is simple: “Practice, practice, practice, and enjoy experimenting with your moves and skills.”
Beyond the Court
Outside of futsal, Raphe’s interests are diverse. He enjoys gaming, watching films, editing, and spending time with friends. Passionate about editing, scriptwriting, and movies, Raphe’s creative pursuits are as dynamic as his sports career.
Raphe Barber’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the transformative power of sport. From overcoming physical challenges to aspiring for international glory, Raphe’s story inspires both on and off the futsal court.
Come and catch Raphe and Manchester Futsal Club in the UEFA Futsal Champions League this August. Tickets are available now at www.manchesterfutsalshop.com
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