PANGKALPINANG – Male U-18 futsal team of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung (Babel) will compete in qualification matches of pre National Games Week (PON) 2024 in Jatinangor stadium, Bandung, Jawa Barat.
“We ask for support from the acting governor to represent the province. We’ll play against Jawa Barat, Banten and then Kalimantan Tengah,” said Selvan Novta (Evan) in an audience with the acting governor Suganda Pandapotan Pasaribu in his Mahligai resident on Tuesday (17/10/2023).
He continued that the team had regular practices at 6 AM every day starting by jogging in the provincial agencies complex and physical exercise on the beach on scheduled days.
“We’re supported by Youth and Sports agencies by preparing the field. The provincial government fully supports us. We’ve practiced regularly every day since a month ago,” he said.
Evan was optimistic 105% that the team would win a ticket to compete in the future PON Aceh – Medan 2024. However, the team must play their best and not underestimate other teams.
“The players are on fire to make a reputation for the province. Moreover, we have a chance to win a ticket for PON Aceh – Medan in U-18. We must be optimistic. It’s for sure.”
Babel will play against good teams. Jawa Barat is the toughest because it is one of the best futsal teams in Indonesia. Therefore, they are physically and mentally ready to fight.
“We’re not afraid. We’re islanders. We have a great spirit to win the match. Players commonly still practice how to pass the ball at 18 years old. It’s not something to be afraid of. All are the same. It depends on motivation to win in every match.”
The acting governor Suganda asked them to keep their stamina and health. The first man in the province prepared a bus to drive the team to the stadium.
“Hopefully the chant "bisa juara" (can win the match) can come true. Keep solid and keep your health,” he said. (Yudhistira/SAS/ZE)
