Our CLUB

Who We Are

Gilberto Damiano & Rodrigo Sousa – Co-Founders

Escolla was created by two friends from Brazil who grew up surrounded by Futsal. They brought that passion to the UK and combined it with UEFA and FA coaching qualifications to create a modern, inspiring way of teaching the game.
Our coaches aren’t just here to run sessions — they’re mentors, role models, and part of your child’s journey. Many come from both sporting and educational backgrounds, so they understand how to nurture children as people first, players second.

Futsal players family coaches together on one picture

Why Futsal

Futsal is at the heart of everything we do. It is our specialism.

It’s fast, exciting, and full of creativity — but it’s also an incredible tool for player development. Many of the world’s best footballers started with Futsal, and we’ve seen first-hand how it sharpens skills, decision-making, and confidence.
At Escolla, we use Futsal not only to develop athletes but also to help young people grow as teammates, problem-solvers, and leaders. Whether they continue into football, stay with Futsal, or simply play for fun, the lessons they learn stay with them for life.

Our Vision

Our vision is simple:

To be a leading Futsal Club in youth development, helping young people achieve their goals — in sport, in education, and in life.
We’re building pathways for players, coaches, and families — from grassroots sessions in local communities to competitive teams and national competitions. Most importantly, we’re building a family where everyone feels welcome and supported.London Escolla is more than just a futsal academy — it’s a proven performer in England’s futsal scene. With a national league title in 2017/2018, youth international selections,

Our Philosophy

At Escolla, every person matters. We believe sport is more than just training and matches — it’s about shaping good people, building character, and creating a supportive community.
Our name, Escolla, comes from the Portuguese word for “school.” This reflects what we stand for: a place where young people learn, grow, and are supported both on and off the pitch.
Every player is different — different strengths, different dreams, different journeys. Our role is to recognise and celebrate those differences, making sure every child feels valued and supported. While we want our players to succeed in sport, we also care deeply about their education, their behaviour, and their personal growth.

Tours

Every year, we take our players on unforgettable Futsal tours. These trips aren’t just about competing — they’re about making memories, exploring new places, and building friendships that last a lifetime.
A highlight of our calendar is the Bahia de Cadiz Futsal Cup. It’s an amazing chance for our players to compete against teams from around the world and experience the game at an international level. We also offer exchange trips through our partnerships with leading clubs across the top European nations.

Coaches

Rodrigo

Co funder

Leo

Coach

Kevin Smith

coach

Jane Smith

coach