Thomas’ pursuing soccer dream

By MALIKAI BALANDU
PLAYING soccer since primary school has instilled in Thomas Yagum self-discipline, and the drive to face challenges in life with resolve.
“I did not dream to come this far in my soccer career, but I thank God for helping me work hard and be committed, patient and determined in what I do.”
Thomas, 26, who plays left defender for the Lae City Football Club, is in New Zealand for the Oceania Football Confederation championship league campaign this week in Auckland
“Soccer helps me overcome challenges in life. Now I am representing my family, home and province overseas.”
His parents are from Yoro village in Bogia, Madang and Samaran village in Markham, Morobe.
He started playing soccer while attending the Mutzing Primary School in Markham.
“I liked playing soccer while growing up. My dad also coached the Markham district soccer team during the Morobe Games.”
After attending the Markham Valley Secondary School in 2014, he focused his attention on developing his soccer skills. He captained the Markham district soccer team to win the Morobe Games in 2014.
“I did not reach the tertiary education level but (through soccer), I saw that I had a purpose in life. I realised my skills and my potential as a leader. I knew that if I train hard in soccer, I can do better.”
His biggest inspiration of course is dad Michael Yagum who coached the Markham district team.
“My father, my aunt and small sister are very big part of my game, who motivate me and help me improve my soccer skills.”
In 2015, Thomas was selected to play for the Bumayong Football Club in the Morobe Football Association. He became part of the Besta Cup.
“When I got selected by the Bumayong FC to play in the Besta Cup, I knew it was a chance to expose my skills and what I was capable of on the field. We won the Besta Cup final.”
The Lae City FC scouts convinced him to join the club and to attend their training camp.
“After the Besta Cup, I was lucky to be selected to attend the Lae city training camp. I tried my best during training to secure my favorite position of left back.”
His advice to aspiring soccer players is use and develop your natural talent in sport or whatever suits you.
“Many young players have potential in soccer but you must also have patience, work hard quietly and perform to the best of your ability when given the opportunity.”
Thomas thanks God for the many blessings in his life. And he not completely forgotten about school. This year, he is upgrading his marks at the Flexible Open and Distance Education (FODE) Lae centre.
“My education is not finished yet. I am upgrading my marks at FODE while playing soccer at the same time.”

“ Soccer helps me overcome challenges in life. Now I am representing my family, home and province overseas.”