To this day, when I train, I train with the smile on my face.Eizar Tanjung, Footballer
At 15 years old, Australian-Indonesian footballer Eizar Tanjung joined Sydney FC and plays for the team in the prestigious National Premier Leagues (NPL).
He told SBS Indonesian about the moment he was called up to play for the club. Eizar recalled the pride and excitement he felt, coupled with the understanding that that was only the beginning.
With a father who was also a football player and served as his mentor, Eizar grew up with a deep appreciation for the sport and learned the importance of hard work and dedication.
“My dad’s right — just because I got the call-up to Sydney FC when I was 15 [it] doesn’t really mean anything," ungkap Eizar. "I still got to perform, I still got to train everyday, the job is not done."
Claiming to have been "discovered" by the Indonesian national team through social media, Eizar recounted his journey to the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Qatar last year. He also described the incredible experience of playing in front of thousands of fans during his national team debut, which became a truly memorable moment for him.
Playing in the World Cup is something I will never forget for the rest of my life.Eizar Tanjung, Footballer
Eizar is scheduled to train with the Indonesian national team in April and participate in the selection process for the U-20 team that will compete in the AFF Cup in Medan this June.
How does Eizar overcome the challenges of differences in cultures and training regimes between Australia and Indonesia? What are his aspirations for his future career in football?
Listen to the full conversation.
