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)