Give opportunity to younger talents

 I SUPPORT the  call by the PNG Softball Federation to review the current national team as their performances is way below par. 

I have watched their games in Lae and recent trial match between Lae selected side and the PNG national team and I am concern of the fitness level and lack of enthusiasm displayed by the team.

Having watched the PNG games, I was hoping to see some of the young talented players included in the national team, sadly, this has not been the case. 

PNG games provided the best platform for selectors in all sporting codes to identify potential talents and make selections accordingly not just for momentary gain but for future perspective of respective sporting codes.

Just like any other sports, for softball to progress and acclaimed itself and defend its title in the regional and international level, selectors must have a long term plan and vision of the sport and provide opportunities for young and upcoming potential representative players to be exposed at higher levels of competition keeping their interest and passion for the sporting code alive. 

Similar to ANZAC test match between the Aussie and the Kiwi, the differentiation in the average age range with New Zealand 24 and Australia 30 has now gained wide criticism of the Aussie coach and selectors after their loss to NZ and possibility of losing their world number one rank in rugby, the challenge was to look to the future and breed the next generation of players. 

Sporting codes in PNG including softball should be weary of such situation and make adjustments accordingly before it is too late. 

If PNG touch team can beat NZ and Aussie and increase their ranks to 3rd in the sport, I see no reason why other sporting codes are struggling to stamp their mark in the international arena. 

It is not only about wining but continuity of competitive spirit, passion and enthusiasm of the sporting code being passed to the next generation, into the future and beyond. 

If sport psychology and change management has not been a part of PNG sport philosophy, it should be now or we will not get anywhere.

Softball Observer 

Lae