Tell us about the Futsol x Printed Goods collab...
We were aware of the lovely illustrations from the Greaves brothers, Raphy and George, from Printed Goods, and we had quite a few of their works on our moodboards because we love their timeless designs and references to classical motifs and mythology. We were looking to explore how we could use the Futsol jersey as a canvas for creative expression by partnering with artists or other designers to co-design Futsol jerseys. The idea of kicking a ball around with friends is such a lasting image for us and we wanted to highlight that.
Football jerseys aren’t easy to design – it's not just digital mockups which go into production… there's a lot of factors to consider: from how the fabric takes a print to wearability etc. There was a bit of back and forth with Printed Goods but we got there in the end. I love both jerseys and will be wearing them a lot over the coming weeks.
What does football mean to you?
Football is a big part of my life, not just because of my business. It always has been whether playing or watching. Getting outside once or twice a week with friends to play football in the evening is often the highlight of the week; it lets me forget about the rest of my life, clear my head, get outside and just run around with a bunch of other people – there's a huge mental health benefit. Unlike other sports which can be done alone like running or cycling, football is community based – you have to have other people involved and I think that becomes harder and harder the older you get, so when it does happen it's a special event.
Describe the Futsol community...
We're starting to build the network and community initially out of London. We are going to be hosting some screening events over the coming weeks and we have plans to arrange some community kickabouts throughout the city next year. Our spaces will be inviting, inclusive and tend away from the stereotypes of the football pub. Join our community by signing up on our website futsol.co.
What can we expect from your Clubhouses in the future?
It's always been part of the plan to build clubhouses as a mix of retail location and community space. Spaces where customers can browse our newest products, catch a screening of a game, talk about football, meet like-minded fans and maybe even have their weekly kickabouts organised through the brand.
Any tips for finding a community you can connect with?
There are platforms like Meetup or Footy Addicts where you can play games with other people.
What do you think needs to change in Football?
There's often a negative perception about football fans because of hooliganism and the antics of some fans. Football is the world's most popular sport so these fans are definitely in the minority but that's what comes out in the media. They dominate the perception of what it means to be a football fan. There are obviously so many different types of people who are football fans and I think this is often forgotten. I have a lot of colleagues and friends in the creative industries and people are often shocked to hear they are football fans. Like, you can't appreciate classical music and literature, and like football?
Spotlight 3 emerging creatives/athletes we should check out…
@printedgoods, @christianjefferyprojects & @morganebigault
