The Disciplined Approach and Unseen Efforts Beyond the Pitch

Kudus – Cheers echo through the stands of the Supersoccer Arena in Kudus. On the pitch, players track the ball, orchestrating attacks and defensive maneuvers in a relentless pursuit of victory. Every pass, tackle, and goal draws sustained applause. Since commencing on July 5, 2026, the HYDROPLUS Soccer League All Stars 2025/2026 has showcased competition among 16 girls' teams in the U-15 and U-18 categories from across the region, serving as a vital platform for rising female football talent in Indonesia.

However, the matches represent only one facet of their journey. When the final whistle blows, spectators leave with tales of victory, defeat, or stunning goals. Meanwhile, the players enter a much longer, unseen phase—a quiet grind that never registers on official match statistics.

The true struggle unfolds away from the field. At their lodging, a rigorous personal routine begins: tidying rooms, laundering gear, managing sleep schedules, and prioritizing physical recovery to prepare for the next training session or game. At such a young age, these athletes are learning the importance of independence and self-discipline.

Occasionally, homesickness sets in. In those moments, smartphones become a vital lifeline. A video call from parents can quickly wash away the fatigue of a grueling match. A brief chat, a familiar smile, or simply hearing a loved one’s voice provides the motivation needed to face the next day.

Such routines have become a part of life for Racheyla Delpiula, a player for the Putri Tangsel City U-18 team. For her, a match does not truly end when the referee blows the final whistle. There is a recovery process that must be followed with discipline to ensure the body is ready for the next challenge. "After a match, the first thing I do is take an ice bath, shower, and then eat," said Racheyla at the Hotel Air Mancur Kudus, where the Putri Tangsel City U-18 (South Tangerang) team is staying.

She admits that the most physically demanding aspect is not the game itself, but the continuous physical training required over time. Behind her 70-minute performance on the pitch lies hours of demanding training that requires energy, discipline, and persistence.

For Racheyla, maintaining a healthy diet and sleep schedule is an equally significant challenge. "You have to manage your sleep, too. We have to prepare ourselves with adequate training, sufficient sleep, and proper rest," she said.

It is not only the physical aspect that is tested, but also the ability to manage emotions. Under the pressures of fatigue, match intensity, and a tight schedule, maintaining a positive team dynamic is a vital part of an athlete's journey.

For her, there is a reality that often goes unnoticed. "Not all of the struggle happens on the pitch, because we have to face the challenges of training, test matches, and everything else beyond that."

Rebecca Margaretha shares the sentiment expressed by Racheyla. Her teammate views the recovery process not merely as physical recuperation, but as a vital opportunity to maintain the camaraderie built throughout the tournament.

Their shared ice baths serve as quiet moments for mutual support. Despite physical exhaustion, they continue to encourage one another to ensure peak performance in upcoming matches.

Throughout this journey, family support remains an irreplaceable source of strength. “Our parents support us over the phone. When we win, they remind us to stay humble and grateful; when we lose, they urge us to bounce back stronger,” Rebecca said.

Beyond training hours, Rebecca maintains her fitness by increasing her intake of fruits and vegetables, a habit she adopts to ensure top physical condition during the tournament.

The path for these young athletes is guided by the dedicated support of their coaches. Tangsel City girls' coach, Sahroni Bonte, notes that many spectators watch the games without realizing the extensive preparation required to compete at a national level. “Their journey from regional qualifiers to the nationals and the intensity of each training session often go unseen by the audience,” said Coach Sahroni.

He believes the greatest challenge lies not only in skill development but also in fostering mental toughness. Consequently, he constantly reminds players that their goals extend beyond seeking victory. “The highest value is upholding the integrity of the team, ourselves, and our families. We must ensure our reputation in South Tangerang remains intact,” he emphasized.

For Coach Sahroni, while match results matter, the experience gained through rigorous training and competition is invaluable for the players' future development.

The story of the Tangsel City U-18 (South Tangerang) girls' team reflects the reality for young athletes participating in the HYDROPLUS Soccer League All Stars 2025/2026. Behind the matches enjoyed by spectators lies a demanding daily routine: training, recovery, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing emotions, fostering independence, and coping with homesickness.

These elements form a journey rarely glimpsed from the grandstands. While a goal is ultimately scored on the pitch, its creation begins long before, through rigorous training, unwavering discipline, and the steadfast support of those closest to the athletes.

The HYDROPLUS Soccer League All Stars 2025/2026 provides a platform for young athletes to elevate their development to the next level. This tournament not only gathers the finest teams but also highlights how discipline, character, and resilience evolve with every step, both in the public spotlight and during the quiet, diligent work behind the scenes. (JMY/ITN/mainkekudus)