Manager of the Junior PNG Squash team, Merlyn Alarcos has provided some helpful insights into the journey of Papua New Guinea’s emerging squash talents, Feanor Siaguru and Amity Alarcos, as they strive for success on the professional stage.
Reflecting on their dedicated training schedule in Brisbane over the past year, Merlyn highlights the challenges of balancing athletic pursuits with academic responsibilities.
“Juggling time for training and completing assignments is a significant effort, especially when both the training center and facilities are nearly 40 minutes apart,” she remarked.
Despite these logistical hurdles, she said Amity manages to secure 3 to 4 days of court time per week, demonstrating her commitment to both her sport and studies.
However, Feanor’s journey, sponsored by Port Moresby Racquets Club and PNG Squash Federation, is underscored by the uncertainty of future sponsorship.
Merlyn acknowledges the pivotal role sponsorship plays in Feanor’s continued participation and expresses hope for increased support to nurture his considerable potential.
As Feanor and Amity prepare for upcoming tournaments, including the Professional Squash Association (PSA) events, Merlyn emphasizes the significance of these opportunities in their development.
“Just gaining professional points and experience against tough opponents is a win in itself,” she asserted, while highlighting the importance of exposure to elite competition.
Despite realistic expectations of facing formidable adversaries, Merlyn underscores the value of the learning experience, particularly against top-ranked players from Oceania.
Moreover, Feanor’s potential wildcard entry into the tournament symbolizes a beacon of hope for future PNG players, inspiring confidence in the accessibility of opportunities within the sport.
However, Merlyn acknowledged that the stark reality of limited corporate support for elite athletes in PNG, has further emphasized the need for increased investment in their development.
“We’re seeking support for Feanor and the men’s squad as we prepare for the upcoming Tahiti Pacific Games,” she revealed, when emphasizing on the pivotal role of corporate backing in elevating PNG’s presence on the international stage.
As Feanor Siaguru, Josh Porter, and Amity Alarcos continue their ascent in the PSA rankings, Merlyn’s insights shed light on the dedication, resilience, and potential that define PNG’s burgeoning squash stars.
Their journey serves as a testament to the talent and determination thriving within the country’s sporting landscape, offering inspiration to athletes nationwide.