Atmajaya softball team seeks home runs<\/p>\n
Kurniawan Hari, The Jakarta Post\/Jakarta<\/p>\n
Established 10 years ago, the baseball and softball club of
\nAtmajaya University (BSAJ) has produced one umpire and one score
\nkeeper who meet national standards.<\/p>\n
The commitment of its members is the key reason why the club
\nhas survived.<\/p>\n
\"For me, the most important thing is our devotion (to sport),
\nslogans are less important,\" softball captain Jati Nugroho said
\nat Atmajaya Catholic University (Unika Atmajaya) recently.<\/p>\n
Apart from producing an umpire and a score keeper, the BSAJ
\nhas also produced qualified players and coaches.<\/p>\n
Under a new policy, students of the university gain a credit
\npoint for being a member of the BSAJ or for participation in
\napproved extra-curricular activities.<\/p>\n
\"The new policy has encouraged students to continue with
\nextra-curricular activities,\" Jati added.<\/p>\n
Over the years, the number of BSAJ members usually dropped
\nafter first semester ended -- but, not today. About 140 students
\nnow attend training every Monday and Thursday.<\/p>\n
\"Few students miss training and those who do are only absent
\nbecause they have to attend a class.\" said Rocky G. Pelealu, BSAJ
\nchairman.<\/p>\n
Jati said the training was targeted at improving students'
\nskill and their hand strength.<\/p>\n
\"Softball requires the ability to sprint, hand strength and
\ncore strength,\" he said.<\/p>\n
According to Jati, core strength is needed for hitting the
\nball. As the torso twists a powerful hit is generated, which
\nideally results in a home run.<\/p>\n
The BSAJ categorizes students as beginners or advanced.<\/p>\n
Beginners are taught the basics, such as how to strike and run
\nquickly. They are also given tips on how to avoid injury.<\/p>\n
But its never too long before they are moved to the advanced
\ngroup.<\/p>\n
BSAJ members often play against students from Bina Nusantara
\nUniversity (Binus), ParamadinaMulya University or even
\nprofessionals from the Thunder Bird Softball Group.<\/p>\n
These practice matches are vital in improving players'
\ntechnical abilities. \"In softball, a good player can analyze the
\nmovements of his competitors,\" said Jati, adding that softball
\nwas an addictive game.<\/p>\n
Most members of the team are under the age of 25 and many hope
\nthey will go on to qualify for the national team, which is in
\nneed of young players.<\/p>\n
According to Jati, his short-term goal is to improve the
\nstudents' skills, while his long-term goal is to make them
\nqualified players so that later coaching is a possibility.<\/p>\n
Now, one decade after its establishment, the BSAJ has produced
\nseveral qualified players.<\/p>\n
To commemorate its 10th anniversary, the BSAJ will soon host a
\nnational softball competition among universities.<\/p>",
"url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/atmajaya-softball-team-seeks-home-runs-1447899208",
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"sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com"
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