Sat, 25 Jun 1994

Indonesian soccer

From Neraca

I am an avid soccer fan who is very sad at the development of soccer in this country. Indonesian soccer was in good shape in the 1950s with a number of celebrated players like Ramang, Ramli, Ramlan, Saelan and others. Bribery of players was unknown during that era. The national players had one common goal, i.e. to uphold the country's name and dignity.

In the 1960s, however, soccer popularity declined, but it regained strength and public praise and enthusiasm in the 1970, with players Sutjipto, Suntoro becoming idols in Asia. Although during this era issues of bribery colored the country's prestige.

My question is what is wrong with the soccer management here. I hope that soccer is handled by professionals who know every nook and cranny of the game instead of people who are ignorant of the area.

MUHAMMAD KORNEL

Depok, Bogor