"Bringing the Serbian team is one of the most effective and efficient strategies, from both the technical and non-technical (standpoint)," Reva Deddy Utama, the national water polo team manager, pointed out.
Jakarta (ANTARA News) - The men`s water polo teams of Indonesia and Serbia are expected to hold training sessions in a bid to test Indonesia`s strength prior to the upcoming 2018 Asian Games in August.

The Executive Board of the All-Indonesia Swimming Association noted in its statement received in Jakarta on Tuesday night (July 10) that the team from Serbia plans to be in Jakarta for 20 days.

"Bringing the Serbian team is one of the most effective and efficient strategies, from both the technical and non-technical (standpoint)," Reva Deddy Utama, the national water polo team manager, pointed out.

Utama noted that from a technical point of view, the Indonesian team, for three weeks, will face a strong match opponent that is necessary, as the men`s water polo team does not have many opponents.

"In terms of the non-technical aspect, it is an efficient step, as the funds to bring them (Serbia) is reduced by almost 50 percent than us sending a team to Serbia," he explained.

In the meantime, the Serbian team has 10 players comprising those who won the 2016 Brazilian Olympics Championship.

"They will help Indonesia in preparing for the 2018 Asian Games and SEA Games 2019. Apart from being training partners, the (Serbian) players will help in some small things," Milos Sakovic, coach of the Indonesian team originating from Serbia, stated.

Moreover, Luka Stefanovic, a Serbian player, said that his visit to Indonesia was special to hone the abilities of the country`s players.

"Thank you for inviting us and trusting in us. Of course, we are happy to help improve the abilities of Indonesian players to win in the Asian Games and SEA Games 2019," he noted.

In addition, Ridjkie Mulia, one of the national team players, was glad to witness the arrival of Serbian players, who have ample experience in Europe.

"It is very meaningful for the players, as we will gain experience and also learn special techniques," Mulia remarked.

Both teams will participate in a trial match at the Soekarno-Hatta main stadium`s aquatic arena on Wednesday (July 11) at 6 p.m. local time.

The 10 visiting Serbian players comprise Luka Secerovic, Luka Stefanovic Senja Stjepanovic, Predrag Spasojevic, Aleksandar Njegovan, Luka Bosic, Denis Saban, Branko Danicic, Djordje Ljubenovic, and Danilo Cabrilo.

The Asian Games 2018 is scheduled to be held from Aug 18 to Sept 2 in Jakarta and Palembang, South Sumatra.

Meanwhile, Secretary General of the Asian Games organizing committee Eris Herryanto noted that 45 countries will participate in the 2018 Asian Games.

"Some 11 thousand athletes and officials will visit Indonesia and participate in 465 matches in 40 sports," Herryanto added. ***4***
Reported by Ricky Prayoga (B003/INE)
(T.SYS/A/KR-BSR/A/F001) 11-07-2018 11:48:19

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Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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