Soccer training to begin in August

Soccer training to begin in August

SEMARANG (JP): The Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI) is
expected to hold its training program for the Southeast Asian
(SEA) Games in Kuala Lumpur in August because team members are
still competing in the 2001 Bank Mandiri national soccer league.

The program is different to the schedule set by the National
Sports Council (KONI).

"I expect PSSI to start its training program in August as soon
as the current league is over. The players will be evaluated
during the current season," training center director Kusnan
Ismukanto told reporters on Friday.

"Having a tight schedule at the league means the candidates
for the national team are able to sustain their physical fitness
and performance," he added.

KONI has set guidelines that the second phase of the training
center should start in February and the last phase in June.

"PSSI is the oldest sports organization in the country and I'm
sure it has its own way to prepare a national team," Kusnan said.

He also said there was nothing to be worried about with the
commencement of the league which could obstruct preparation.

Commenting on the possibilities that Indonesia would send a
women's soccer team to the Games, Kusnan said the decision was up
to KONI chairman, Wismoyo Arismunandar. (har)