180 in selection trials for Sabah Sukma futsal squad
KOTA KINABALU: Close to 180 hopefuls attended the selection trials for the Sabah Malaysia Games (Sukma) 2018 men’s and women’s futsal squad yesterday.
The one-day selection trials was held at the Yayasan Sabah Futsal Arena here.
Mohd Asyraaf Fong Abdullah headed the selection panel assisted by Azman Soaibah, Rosmadih Wasli, Mohd Nazrey Mohd Yunus and Khairul Japli.
“We in the selection committee are shortlisting the names identified from the trials today (yesterday).
“We are looking at 25 men and 20 women to continue with Phase One training camp which is expected to start early next year,” texted Asyraaf, who is Sabah Football Association (Safa) Beach Soccer and Futsal Committee deputy chairman.
Commenting on those who attended the trials, Asyraaf said they were many talented players with good quality and skills to play the sport.
“The individual technique as well as tactical knowledge that they have will make the coaches’ task much easier in training.
“Four to six of them are experienced players who featured competitively in the recent Sabah Futsal League... these players are going to be the backbone of the Sukma team.
“I’m sure the teams will shine under the guidance of a right coach with experience,” he added.
Having said that, Asyraaf revealed the chairman of the committee, Yamani Hafez Musa, will announce the names of the players selected to undergo the Phase One training camp.
“The chairman too will announce the coaching staff to lead the Sabah Sukma 2018 teams,” he said.