LAWAS: The Sarawak women’s squad under the National Sepak Takraw Development Programme (NSTDP) claimed third place at the NSTDP National Championship at the UiTM Sports Centre in Shah Alam, held from Nov 21 to 23.
Represented by SMK Merapok, the team reached the second round and secured the podium finish, sharing the third place spoils with Pahang. Perak took the title, while Sabah finished second.
Head coach Safli Japar said the young players were nervous on the big stage but managed to challenge the more experienced teams.
“We know our squad has less experience compared to teams that play more regularly, and that was one of the main challenges,” he said.
“Even though they were nervous, they worked hard. This is valuable experience and we will improve our preparation for future tournaments.”
Safli added that the result provides motivation for the Sarawak squad ahead of upcoming competitions.
Sarawak were represented by five players: Natahalia, Olivia, Emusianah, Jenifer and Stephenie, all products of the NSTDP training programme at SMK Merapok.
