You're Only as Good as Your Last Event - The Naza World Cup Asia 2013

"You're Only as Good as Your Last Event."

That quote keeps playing in my head over and over again as I wait for my flight home from playing The Naza Paintball World Cup Asia 2013. Let me step back a few days. Leading towards World Cup Asia this year has been an "adventure". Coming from having no team to having a team but haven't played an event all year long, to not knowing which division to play, to not having much players, to trying to get the amount of hours clocked in of practice so the team can be ready for this year's WCA. Not to mention all the drama that has come from last year to this year. All and all, it was something that I had to get through to mature and be in the state of mind and condition my personally want to be as a Paintball player.

A couple of changes made, I stepped down as Captain of my team as I felt I would be better contributing as a full time player. Kelby Wong was chosen to be Captain of Medan Smokers. It only felt right as he is also the owner of the team and as the eldest member in the team, so the guys would respect his reasoning. 

And than there as a couple more issues, First, who will be playing? Not wanting to repeat the mistakes we did last year, he had to make a good roster. With that said, the team grabbed Reza Al-Habsyi from Medan Comrades to be part of the team, as we felt he is ready for the improvement. Another addition is Novrial Fajri Kurniawan, the youngest on the team. The only minus was losing Meiji Morico for personal reasons. So, at last we had seven players in the roster. Second, what division to play in? We all gave our words and ideas on this matter. The Why's and Why Not's, and eventually we picked to play division 2 making a jump forward from last year. Many doubts crossed many minds on why we decided to play division 2, but for me personally it was a statement.

Last year's WCA for me was a disaster. But I didn't let that put me down. I knew what I wanted to achieve. So, I did what I felt was necessary. I trained harder. From the Offseason and every other week leading to World Cup Asia 2013. I shared my vision with Reza Al-Habsyi and we literally worked our assess off. We had something to prove. Even when people don't understand or what they think we're just wasting our time. We don't blame them. To us, this is more than just about our passion. A whole lot more. But the only way to show that is by proving. And that's why our goal is to Win World Cup. Not to be a fluke or a waste of time. That's why to us it just mattered more.

Our weekends were all filled with practices. Saturdays and Sundays. I personally missed a lot of family ventures, friend's weddings, and others, but it was something I felt I had to sacrifice and did. It was a blessing when I knew my family understood and supported me with paintball.

And how we trained; Bloody Knuckles.

We headed to Langkawi at the 13th of November 2013, a day early. And as expected got a early view of the field layout on our division. We walked the field for a couple of hours, getting to know the feel and angles  the field is letting us. Sorted our gameplans and went for dinner. On Thursday, I attended the Planet Eclipse Tech Class, and awarded a certificate which I got by passing the test, which was cool. Later in the evening, after the captain's meeting and drawing of teams per division, we had our team meeting. Drawing preferred game plans while discussing them at the same time. Our first game was at 8.48 in the morning the following day. As the schedule was different from last year, where this year our prelims games were all played in one day depending on which group we were in. So, we had Friday as our prelim day and the Saturday off.

Honestly, I didn't pay much attention to who we were going to play. All I knew was the time we were playing. All I cared about was how I was going to play not how other teams were going to play. I was in a state of mind where I wanted the other teams to adjust to how I played, not the other way around. I wanted to dictate the game.

First game of the day, Kuwait Kamikaze. We knew our game plan, all we needed to do was execute. First point, buzzer goes off, got to my spot, shot my lanes, but we lost the point. 0-1. I remember going back to the pits, one of the guys kept saying "sorry, it was my fault.". I said, "don't worry about it, gas up, pod up.". I wasn't going to burst into emotions every time something goes wrong, or when we lose a point. Just clear my head up and play better. Second point, 30 seconds. I looked across the field, saw our opponents a bit jumping around or goofing around or dancing around like stuff. The first thing the came across my mind was, "Wow, these guys are having a great time. Dealing with us like we were nothing.". And boom, that did it for me. There was no way I'm letting that happen. 10 seconds. Buzzer sounded. I pushed aggressive to the snake. Got my kills and the others finished it. 1-1. It came to the point where I didn't care who was across the field from me. I had a goal, and I want it bad. We ended up winning the game 2-1.

After the game, The Kuwait Kamikaze team, were like family. These guys were awesome. And we literally helped each other out after that game. The one thing still on my mind : Win World Cup.

Our second game was against Assala Gabon. Hot and ready to go we entered the field. Like the first match, we our the first point but equalized on the second. Third point, I was fired up. We changed the game plan, letting me push the snake side off the break. 10 seconds. The buzzer blew, I launched, heads up looking for the stream of paint towards the snake. And then it happened. At the worst possible time, in a middle of a run, in a game, as I was about to make the dive to the snake I heard a popping sound. My right thigh felt like there was a hot knife cutting it wide open. Adrenaline still pumping, I make the dive and hid behind my bunker not shooting my gun. I was in pain, but I was covering it. I kept thinking, damn, my tournament is over on the second game. There was no way I was going to be able to sprint or do what I normally do tournament wise. I was frustrated. Mad at myself. Knowing in my mind that my tournament was over, I was determined to at least finish this point off for my team. I pulled myself together, took a deep breathe and shot my gun. I wasn't going to hobble off the field. It was clear to me what I had to do whether or not it was my last point to play for the tournament. We ended up winning the point. 2-1. As soon as I got to the pits I had to sat down. The pain was excruciating. I told the Captain that I had to sit out. We ended out drawing the game 2-2. After the game, the guys asked me what happened. I looked at their eyes, there was concern, doubt, so I told them I'm ok, just pulled a muscle. When I knew it was more than that. I don't know why I lied, but it seem to me it was better that way. I sat by the Captain, he asked me how is it? I said I can play but not at the front position. So, we had a little team meeting, discussing a change of role. There was absolutely a change of atmosphere after that. I was going to play the two position (Mid) behind Reza who was whiched from front dorito to front snake. After the meeting our next game was still long, so I decided to head up to the medical center to get my hamstring wrapped up. I couldn't find any medical center, I tried to ask but no one seem to know. I went back, grabbed my bag and pulled out my muscle cream and massaged my hamstring by myself. I didn't want to let my teammates down nor myself even when I clearly couldn't run. But I hid that.

Third game was against Datis D2. We got run down, 0-3. I took a lot of bonus balls. Clearly it was the wrong game plan, and the wrong composition. We sat down, everyone had their heads down. I even think that maybe some of us thought that we didn't belong here. I remember sitting there, reminiscing my past year. What I went through, what my goal was. And out of now where I decided and said to the Captain, "Put me back in the snake, I'll play the snake.". I wasn't going to let this go to waste. Even when I know I might be putting my career in the line, but it was a risk I was willing to take for my team. "Swing Big or Miss Big". I was choosing to swing big. From that moment, I sense a change in our team. And it was big.

We won our remaining three prelim games, putting us with 4 wins, 1 draw and 1 lost. Something that we never did ever before. We finally got over the hump and went through the prelims onto the Top 16. Everyone was delighted and overly excited. Yes, it was an accomplishment nonetheless. A very sweet accomplishment. And for some it was their target. For me and Reza, well it was a different story. For us it was just the beginning. We knew we were able to get through, we already planned it out. So, our first step was in the books. Now moving on to the second step. Sadly, even though the joy on winning and advancing were sweet, I was in more pain. My hamstring kept swelling but I still kept quite. I didn't want to ruin anything. We packed up, had lunch and than helped out Medan Comrades on their prelims. We were second in our group.

 photo by Mary Walker

 photo by Girl With a Camera

 photo by Girl With a Camera

 Photo by Mary Walker

 Photo by Mary Walker

 photo by Girl With a Camera

 photo by Girl With a Camera

photo by Girl With a Camera

Day One concluded, as us Medan Smokers prevail to the Top 16 division 2 at The Naza World Cup 2013 and Medan Comrades were 3 and 3 at the first day of their prelims in division 4.

Tomorrow is a new day.

We held back to the hotel, got dinner and rested up.

Day Two, woke up and feeling like there was a big baseball in my hamstring. It was all swollen. When I apply pressure I was in agony. We all promised to help Medan Comrades today with their remaining prelim games as we had the day off. I had my breakfast than took a shower. We reached the field, I was still searching for medical support but finally got some at the Rock Tape booth. Bought Rock Tape and they took care of me. I could walk more easily now even though the pain was still there. I remember thinking that it might be a tear, but kept a positive mind on it. Well, the day was great, Medan Comrades finished off the day undefeated putting them through to the Top 16. So, both Magnum Paintball teams succeeded on making through the prelims. We got to watch some division 1 and ICC games before heading for dinner. By that time I was searching for my pills. I was actually already sick going to Langkawi but never told anybody about it. I just kept taking my pills, but unfortunately forgot them at the hotel. I was burning up at dinner which I didn't even finish. Making it worse that our first game the following day was at 9 o'clock. By the time we got back to the hotel, I took my pills with a few vitamins and pain killers. I remember counting 7 pills that night, and than dropping.

Woke up the next morning at 4AM. Fever down and feeling better. It was time for Sunday Club Paintball. Our team's first Sunday Club appearance and the first for many of our players. It was an exciting feeling. But most of all I was focused. I was determined. Our first Top 16 game was at 9 AM, so we got to the field before 8 and got prepped. Did our warm ups and went over the game plans again.

First game of the day, Top 16 Match up was against Clover International South America. These guys also play at the ICC (Inter-Continental Cup), but I didn't let that get to my head. I treated it like any other game. And this time I was willing to make a statement. I was willing to Win World Cup. I didn't remember much about this game except the fact we won 3-0. Morale was high. We didn't let anything come at us, even when one of the opponents that we just beat came to our table and sort of "congratulating" us, saying that because of the lost they just got by us, they will win the remaining games and become champions. For me, it was disrespectful, and the fact he said it to each one of us really got me thinking that it was just a mind game act. So, no worries on that part.

Our second game of the Top 16 was against Republik CMX. There were the leading team to win overall champion, so I knew they were a force to be recon with. First point, all was going well and we won the point. 1-0. Second point, same game plan. Got to our bunkers, shot our lanes. Got a couple of G's, but one thing lead to another and we lost the point. Eventually we lost the game. It was then, clear to me where our achilles heal was. Communication.

But not like last year and the years before, that defeat didn't get to our emotions. We just had to suck it up and think clearly. We got to be prepared. Our season was on the line as there was one game left and it was a must win situation. Our opponent, Votolocos. A very good team. 

Kelby called a team meeting, he wanted to change things up. A different game plan. It was clear that other teams were reading our previous game plans. We had nothing to lose and actually everything to lose. It was that Poker Face situation. But we had faith on our Captain and his decision. So, everyone was in.

Third and final game of the Top 16. Do or die. First point, we came out swinging and won the point. 1-0. Second point, change our game plan and it worked. 2-0. The momentum in our hands, third point, we changed our game plan again, but it didn't work out. 2-1. Forth point, we decided to go back to the original game plan. I figured because of our game changing plans, it worked for us. We were trying to get the opponent to keep guessing our move. The time expired without any of us scoring another point. We won 2-1. And had a ticket to the Top 8. Everyone was at joy. A lot of the guys didn't even think we were going to go this far. I looked at Reza. We knew what this meant. And we want more. Our game face was still the same. We weren't done. Not by a long shot. The Cup, one step closer.

We had a long break, waiting for the other games to play out. We still had to keep focus. It's not over yet. As usual I didn't want to get caught up on who was going to be our next opponent. I just waited for the time to play.

Now this was crucial. Our team was called to play the quarterfinal game against Menace. Second quarterfinal game, we only had 4 players. And the other 3 no where to be found. Honestly, chaos broke loose. I myself trying to calm myself down, thinking, ok the worst that could happen is that we play 4 players. My mindset was set on that, I didn't want to be caught up in the emotion of something else. Our captain went to the command center trying to delay time so we can find our remaining players. The 4 that was ready tried the best to prepare everything else. The Quarter Finals was a knock out stage, so, if we lose, we go home. End of the season. The game before us had one more point to win and then it was our game, still no sign of our other players. We gas up, pod up and was ready to go into the pits, as we saw the other players running to the field. I didn't have the luxury of thinking something else. I had to be focused on the next game.

Quarter Final game, Menace. First point, got to our bunkers, shot our lanes. But something felt different, something was off, something was not into place. 0-1. Second point, switch of game plan. Got to our bunkers, shot our lanes again, still something wasn't right. 0-2. Third point, switch sides. Change of game plan. We had to attack. I pushed hard to the snake, not thinking much about my injury, I just wanted to win at any cost. Got in safely, shot my lanes, got a couple of kills but by that time only I was left with Ikhsan. He got a penalty and that was it, the season going out the window. As I walked to the pits, I heard the buzzer go off. Game over. 0-3. Our run was stopped by Menace who eventually won the event in division 2. I got to the pits, got my gear and head back to our tables. Honestly, I was emotionally tired, not from the game, but the condition on how we lost. Frustrating as it was, I wasn't going to burst. I had to hold down that emotion. We all put our gear at the table and decided to talk it over. 

Everyone had a talk in. About that last game and the tournament in general. Everyone talked about how different the last opponent was, how they kept pressuring. Overall it was a good event. First time playing division 2 for the team and we got to the quarter finals with new leadership. Something we never could have done before. Everyone was satisfied. Everyone except me and Reza. In my opinion, we could have approached the Quarter Finals better. We lost to a great team, yes, but I know we could have done better if we were focused and ready enough. The main reason we lost was because of ourselves. We don't have anyone else to blame. I'm not here to judge and I'm not here to point fingers. I'm just pointing out what I see and how I see it.

For me and Reza, our goals were cut short. A real disappointment. We have sacrificed a lot and to be cut short because of a reason we could have prevented was really a kick to the teeth. For us, even though this was quite a good result, it was still failure. We had things to prove. Prove to certain people as to ourselves. We knew what was on the line. What people would think if we don't win. The perception was clear. You're Only as Good as Your Last Event. Anything short of a win, is failure. I remember, 2nd place is the first loser. That's how I push myself. My drive. We wanted to Win World Cup. We needed to Win World Cup. 

Even though we placed 6th Overall in Division 2, as I got back home, remembering the event. It still haunts me, the if's and how's kick in. I analyze myself. Knowing my mistakes. I will get better. I also found a new drive. Something that made me want this even more.

The one lesson that I learned from this World Cup , Determination! I know if I put my mind into it. I know I can succeed.

Dany Sitompul #07

The Birth Of Hanoman's Army

The experience of it all was MAGNIFICENT!

Let me take you back a couple of months. As I wondered and thought about this after my last outing on the 1st leg of MPOC 2013, it was about having a competitive Indonesian Paintball Team. A team that is filled with experience, heart and compassion to compete at the highest level. I thought of it for days. I texted my good friend Hadi Gunawan and told him about my views, and asked him what he thought. We exchanged a couple of possibilities about it. In short, it could happen. But we had to plan it to every detail, not just come up with a couple of guys just to play a tournament and be gone with it.

I kept on training every weekend I could to make myself better. I knew I had to because what I want to complete in this sport is not just being in it. I wanted to win. So, I prepared myself for it every week. A couple of weeks go by and Hadi texted me and about competing on the 2nd Leg of MY-NPL (Malaysian National Paintball League) in Melaka. He asked me and Kelby Wong to join with him and Rony Budiman to form a competitive team for the event. Of course I said yes, as it was in my thoughts for a long time now. We brought in another member from Java Genies, Shen, to join the team. And then there was five.

The tournament was a Race-to format, so we had to make some more recruitments. I had to choose carefully and wisely. We were short in front players, so I knew I had to choose a attacking minded player. What better choice than, Reza Al-Habsyi. He's been practicing with me every weekend, so I knew he was ready even though this will be his first tournament in division 3. I actually had a couple of names I could have chosen but at that time the only attacking minded player I thought was ready and practices all the time was him. I consulted with team and they all agreed. But we all felt that we still needed a last player. Since it was a race-to format and we didn't have a crew, just a coach, we decided we had to make one more addition to the team. One that was willing to help out in the pits and ready to play. I came up with four names, asked the team about them and then I asked them one by one. Two of the names I proposed couldn't seem to make it, the other two were Hendika and Ican. I asked the team of which should we pick. It was a long debate of pros and cons and finally it was Hendika for the final spot. And then there was seven. Hanoman's Army was complete.

The layout came out, and it was the same layout of the PSP Dallas Open 2013. I personally loved the layout.  So, on the weekend we practiced the layout and learn as much as we can to prepare for MY-NPL Melaka.

April the 26th, 2013

Kelby Wong, Reza Al-Habsyi, Hendika Putra and I depart from Medan to Kuala Lumpur at 8 AM. We arrived at Kuala Lumpur around 10 AM and decided to have breakfast as we waited for our other teammates to come. Hadi Gunawan with his wife and Shen came second from Jakarta and Rony Budiman with his wife came last from Semarang. The whole team was together at last. We exchanged greetings and waited for the pick up. The organizers was kindly enough to give us bus tickets to Melaka at 2 PM. So, as we all waited for the bus we met the Waxers Legion team at McDonalds and had lunch together.
The two hour trip to Melaka was pleasant. I actually slept all the way, because the night before I didn't have enough sleep. It's always like this for me pre tournament. As we arrived at the bus station, we were picked up from the organizers who drove us all to our apartment in Melaka. It was called the Mahkota Hotel. The place was beautiful. I could see the field from our 14th floor apartment.

Realizing what it feels like to be like a true pro paintballer, living in one apartment with all the team members. It was a feeling I've never felt before, honestly.
We changed and went down to head to the field. Catch a couple of drinks and then walked the field for a few hours. We looked at all angles as we complied a couple of gameplans. After walking the field and getting our ID tags, we all head out to Modiva to have dinner and a team meeting. We discussed gameplans for a couple of hours, leaving it all out so we could have the ideal gameplan for tomorrow's competition. After all was set, we went back to the apartment and rested.

April the 27th, 2013

GAME DAY 1

I woke up, had a shower and got breakfast. Our game was at 10.45 AM, we headed to the field around 8 AM so we could catch some games and so we could properly prepare everything. I did my usual routine, putting on my gear one by one in a matter I only know how, warmed up and waited for the game. As our team was called, Hamonan's Army, we grabbed our gear and head to the pits. We went over our gameplans again to make sure everyone was ready. We all knew what we were supposed to do, where to shoot, where to attack and where we would conquer. I was ready. We were ready! As they called Hanoman's Army to enter the field, one by one we stepped into the field with confidence. Released our barrel socks and tested our guns. We were focused. "Get ready for 10 seconds", the marshall said. As I looked at the game clock run down the 10 seconds, I remember the countdown, three, two, one, then someone said "Go!". Two of our guys began shooting. In my mind, Oh,shit. The buzzer haven't sounded. This had to be a false start. Than I heard the buzzer as a took of running and gunning, but honestly I lost my focus, I got shot on the side of my goggles, Rony got shot running to the Back Snake, Kelby got pulled for a false start. It was a disaster. We lost the point. The good thing was, no one was blaming anyone. We kept calm, pod up and gas up. Cleaned ourselves and went back to the field. "10 seconds!". Wait for the buzzer I said on my mind. The buzzer sounded, I took off. We immediately got a G off the break on the snake side. I saw the opening and dived in the snake. The last thing I knew was Kelby getting the flag and hanging it. Yes! Won the point, so the score was 1-1. This is a race-to-2 format so we had to get this last point to win. Went to our pits, podded up, gassed up and went back in. "10 Seconds!", and I realized we were short one player. Oh no, Kelby was running from the pits as fast as he could. He made it, the buzzer sounded and the game was on. As I spot a G on the snake side, I heard immediately we lost our dorito side in an instant. I defended as long as I could but in the end we lost the point, and the game. Not the start we were expecting at all. a 1-2 lost.

We went back to our paddock. Discussed what went wrong, everyone spoke out what happened in their end. The first thing was, wait for the buzzer, don't count down the time. Second, was we must have more firepower. Third, was remembering to put out the barrel sock before each game. Conclusion, we had to make adjustments, including myself who got shot off the break. We took time to set up a new gameplan. What we could do different from our previous game. We all made contribution, and we came up with a new gameplan. For the second game we needed speed and firepower, so we all agreed to give Reza a chance playing the front dorito and resting Shen for awhile. Our second game was after lunch break so, we decided to get some burgers for the whole team while watching games in between. I met up with a couple of other friends, having a laugh and discussed stuff. It was great to see them. 

Our second game was up. I knew we had to change things up, had to play our game, stick to our gameplan and focus on our tasks. When we stepped into the field I realized I had to fire up my teammates. I called them up together, spoke some words and chant : HANOMAN'S!!! They replied : ARMY!!!

"10 Seconds". The buzzer sounded, we were off. Very different from the last game, we were dominate in this one. We won the game 2-0. Nice, but I didn't want to carry away. Just like the first game, we came back to the paddock and immediately discuss the game. This was truly feeling like a true team. We put everything on and off the field. As we did this we won our third and forth game both 2-0, and finished the prelim games on top of our group putting us automatically into the quarterfinals. Sunday club! That was a great feeling. We packed our gear and decided to catch some drinks and have some dinner.

At dinner we discussed what we did today to further details and what we should do tomorrow. Had it all cleared up before the first meal was served. So, we ate with smiles and laughter. Except for Hendika, his order haven't came. We finished our meals, order a couple more drinks but still Hendika's order still haven't came. I asked, "WTF did u order?". "Omni rice.", he said. So, the team asked the waiter and the waiter said. "Yes, 3 minutes". And the 3 minutes took more than an hour. The poor guy was so hungry. So, we hung out until late and then went back to the apartment to get some rest. 

April the 28th, 2013

GAME DAY 2, Sunday Club

We reached the field around 8 AM to watch who we would face on our quarterfinals match. Did our recon and get our gear ready. As usual, I did my routine. A quarterfinals match is always a stressed out kind of match. Because, if you lose, you go home. It was a do or die kind of mentality. I tried to not focus on that. We had to play our game. We already scouted the opponent, so in a way we should be good. As they called our team, we headed to the pits with confidence. I know it's a new day, the opponent have already had a match before us so they were already hot and played the field already (as we switched fields from our yesterday's field). So, I had to make sure we weren't stepping into the field slow and cold. The Buzzer sounded, and our quarterfinals match was off. I felt like I flew to the snake, making a couple of G's and making sure we got the point. Went back to the pits, podded up and gassed up and immediately step back into the field. My mind was set, I wasn't even going to make my team lose. That was my mentality. The buzzer sounded, and I took off. Same like the first set, I took the flag and walked it to the flag station, Hadi checked me if I was clean and walked me over. We won our quarterfinals! I had a sense of relief, but I knew this wasn't over. We had two more games to play and make it to the top.

I've been in this position before, Semifinals, win and play for the top or lose. I can't put my foot on it yet, but after the quarters, I felt a little different. I don't know whether it was because I was tired, physically or mentally. In a way, I never want to disappoint any of my teammates. Giving the fact they picked me as captain. Even though, we all shared everything, from experience to gameplans and fun. There was a part of me that I still can't get my hand on. But it's not an excuse, I still had to focus. I knew other teams were already scouting us, so we had to make sure our gameplan was right for the semis. We talked it over, came up with some other versions so we could be ready. Basically, it was the same gameplan but secondary moves were a little different.

As our semifinals was approaching, I had time to think some things over. And then our team was called, so we got ready and headed to the pits. Semifinals, one more step closer to the top. The buzzer sounded, I took off looking at the stream on paint that I was expecting to come. There wasn't any. So, I didn't think further and jumped in the snake. I pulled up my gun and shot across to the command center, while wrapping occasionally. I looked at my mirror, no one was there. I remembering thinking, this was my chance. so I crawled my way up. Half way, I got shot. I remember being so angry at myself as I walked out the field. Hadi then walked out too, I saw Reza having gun problems. And shortly the set was over, 0-1. I podded up,  gassed up but I was so pissed at myself. Why didn't I check the Center A before I moved? In all the games I did exactly that, why in the semis I didn't check. As I stepped back in, I was determined to redeem myself. The buzzer sounded for the second set, I took off. Right as I slide to my bunker, I got hit in the goggles. I was so frustrated, I punched my bunker as I walked off the field. How in the world did I let that happen again! I watched my teammates battle, but it was too late. We lost the second set also, 0-2. Lost the semis. I was devastated. I didn't want it to turn out like this. We headed back to the paddock, and discussed what happened. Conclusion, they read our gameplan so well. We were expecting them to go wide, that never happened. They played us off the middle of the field. But that wasn't an excuse for me being so clumsy and not checking before I made my move. That was my mistake to burn. And I shouldn't have been too emotional about it, that carried into the second set, and I guessed that's why I got shot off the break. I was emotional and I hesitated. I knew I let my team down. It was the same mistake I did at the start of the tournament, hesitated, and that made me wide open to be chewed on. After calming down a bit, We decided to make some changes, some playing time for the others. 

This was for 3rd and 4th placing. We still wanted to win. This would be a game changer and a mood changer. So, the first set I was replaced by Hendika, putting Reza playing the snake and Hendika playing the dorito. Won the first set, a nice start. I replaced Hadi, as we put Reza back on the dorito side and me on the snake side. We also put Shen in the Back Dorito, giving a different look. The set ended up in a 1 on 1 with me against the opponent. This was my second 1 on 1. I won the previous 1 on 1 the day before in the prelims, and like the prelims I was down to only what I had in my hopper. I was in a high position, with him in a low position. I tried to make a move. This will be the stupidest thing I ever did in this tournament and maybe my whole paintball carreer. I was trying to run him down, got lit up in the process. Very stupid. The third set was a void game, leading into overtime. As the game started, I got into my bunker and shot my lanes. I saw one guy running through the middle trying to bunker Hadi, I lit him up, but he played on and still shot Hadi out. The ref pulled both of them out. No matter, I dove into the snake. Trying to make damage control and holding the opponent snake to get in. I remember looking at my dorito side wondering why isn't there a move? All the sudden I see Reza moving up the center Maya. I saw him having trouble with his gun. I tried to make a move up the snake but got shot from a paintball bouncing from a bunker and hit my hopper. I walked out the field and then saw Reza trying to grab the flag but out lit up. This caused a change in the gameplan. Leaving Rony on the snake side and Kelby on the Dorito side. A 2 on 2. Kelby shot the opponent on the snake side but them got bunkered. Leaving Rony on the snake side getting bunkered also. We lost in overtime, putting us 4th place.

All in all, this was the first time our team ever played together. And this was our first tournament together. Some might say, good job or that's okay giving the conditions or something like that. Getting 4th place in a first tournament, that's a hell of a job. I'm not saying that it's wrong, but I felt like I could have done things better or differently. The thing is, that's always the case when you lose. And I hate losing. I'm a sore loser.

But, I do know this is a good result. And we are still in process on getting better. Improving. As I sit down writing this, remembering the experience in whole and what I could do better. I know my mistakes, I know what I did wrong, my teammates also took the time saying what I did wrong and I appreciate it. It will drive me more. To be better and stronger. I won't stop here. I will continue to grow.

For me, this experience has all the aspects for me to become better.

-Mastermind #07-

Medan Comrades - Band of Brothers

Team. This clearly does not describe us that well. As people recognize us as one, we clearly are more than that. We are a pack of brothers. We are a group of friends. We are a family. The brotherhood rooted by us in Magnum Paintball defines this group of well talented paintball players to establish their purpose in this sport alone. We don't play just for the fun of it. We play because we enjoy the comfort of being side by side fighting along with our brothers in arms.

Medan Comrades. 

The brothers all come from different backgrounds and talent. Different teams, schools, neighborhood even playing fields. We didn't become overnight. It was far from that. It was a journey. But what makes the journey easier is because we have one purpose and one purpose only, to become the best that we can be! There were many doubters, saying that we can't achieve anything, the way I train is wrong, the place we train is not worth it and many more. But it never stopped us. Hard work and dedication. I told my players that this will not have an instant result as we train from the bottom. I never guaranteed an instant result. You have to earn it. Achieve it, because it will not be handled over to you. 

In 2012, Medan Comrades have participated in many local events including MOPL 2nd leg which they place  1st runner-up. Indonesia Open only advancing from the prelims, as this was the worst tournament for Medan Comrades. Jasamarga Paintball Tournament, getting 1st place, Magnum Paintball Tournament also getting 1st place and the most memorable tournament, World Cup Asia 2012 in Langkawi, Malaysia as Medan Comrades ranked 5th in division 4 out of 40+ other teams competing, even though there were people saying that we didn't deserve it. Why? Till now I still don't know.

Medan Comrades begun the 2013 offseason with a new purpose. New agenda. New challenge. New talent. And a new attitude. In the offseason, Medan Comrades signed a deal with Paintball Giant, Empire Paintball, as they will be laced up with Empire Gear from head to toe for the entire 2013 season. It was a great start. We also added more players in the roster as we also lost some players. Bringing in good talent that would want to learn more and play paintball the right way. Not just for fun, but as a lifestyle. 

First tournament of the 2013 season was MOPL 1st leg in Cadika Adrenaline Park. As we have many players now, so Medan Comrades went with two teams, both packed with the same amount of talent. They both ended up taking podium, 1st and 4th place as they represent Magnum Paintball, Massive Paintball And Empire Paintball for the first time together. A great achievement as Medan Comrades prove that they can also win outside their own home field.

As we practice each weekend, there will be only one thing on our mind. Being the best that we can be, fighting along side...... a Band Of Brothers.

PAINTBALL - Too what expense?

It’s an expensive hobby”. Words that can only come from a person who will never truly understand our sport. It is true that we (players) sink our time, cash, efforts and hearts into this sport. But anyone who has ever ground it out on a Sunday with their team; come off the field soaked with sweat, worn down but feeling like a god; knows that it will NEVER be bout the money. How could it be?


“You get paid to play,” more often than not translates to “You get to play for free,” for this sport’s professional players. Still, the majority of players would kill for a spot on a Pro roster. To fly to events and play the game they love for a cheering crowd. Getting to do what you love is sweeter than any paycheck.


“The Island of Misfit Toys,” could describe a paintball field on any given Sunday. The typical team, is nothing but typical. Teams are made up of players young and old, fat and thin, male and female. There isn’t, as far as I can tell, a cookie cutter player for our sport. It is, like many sports, a band of brothers. Some call it a boy’s club, but girls play too. Family, coming together every weekend, doing what they do best.


So the next time a by stander or co-worker tries to understand how you can “throw your money away on a silly hobby,” calmly reply, “You can’t put a price on it,” Because the people you meet, the things you get to do, the immense joy you experience… well, they just wouldn’t understand.


Love the game

(Taken from Mervyn Leong's FB Page)

Medan Open Paintball League - 1st leg 2013 - Believe in Your Game

Particularly a lot in stake for Comrades this season. Not only that they have been quite dominant in the last two local tournaments, but it was a point where it was literally the time to show that they were not just good at home. Off from just signing with Empire Paintball, a giant in the paintball industry, they now have a name they carry everywhere. Not only just Magnum Paintball, where they practice and grind every weekend, but the name and people they represent as well. Some might say quite a burden. I say, a privilege.

Two teams were participating from Magnum Paintball, Comrades Alpha and Comrades Beta. Both in the same division 4. Comrades Alpha with no personal changes, Miftah Fadhil, Reza Al-Habsyi, Hendika Putra, Kurnia Tri Sulistio and Delvryano Tamadiputra. Where as Comrades Beta getting a face lift bringing in Ryan Akbar from Sumatran Tigers to play alongside Yoga Tarigan, Chandra Dalimunthe, Mhd Fadhil Hakim, Satrya Wicaksono, and Donny Handoyo.

16 February 2013
Day 1. Comrades Alpha began the day playing against old rival, KJ 1. They started off slow and weak. Lost the game by not playing their own game. As for Comrades Beta going against KJ 2, ended up in a draw, while even only one Comrades Beta player still alive but didn't hang the flag as time expired. A bad start for both teams. A team meeting was necessary, calling in both teams and pump their spirits up. It was only a mater of believing in their selves. Game 2, Comrades Alpha vs KJ 2. As I would say, this game was a lucky one for Comrades Alpha, they were down 3-2 on bodies and KJ 2 had primary field position. If not for a wiping call from the marshals, eliminating the remaining KJ 2 players I would've suspected the worst outcome. But Comrades Alpha eventually pulled a W. A very lucky W, as they still haven't found their rhythm. As for Comrades Beta, they lost their second game, but played quite better than the first. The third game was against each other with Comrades Alpha coming up on top. Alpha was coming in hot, as they won their forth game too. As for Comrades Beta, I had to mix and change things up as they were against KJ 1. Put in a new snake player and changing their approach on the game. The plan worked, as two players stepped up, Yoga Tarigan and especially Ryan Akbar how lock down the snakeside of KJ 1. Yoga grabbed the flag a did a tenacious run back to hang the flag. So, Comrades Alpha, 3 wins and 1 lost and Comrades Beta with 1 win, 1 draw and 2 losses. Day 1 was finished.

17 February 2013
Day 2. Comrades Beta must win their last prelim match just to have a chance on advancing to the semifinals, as they to depend on Comrades Alpha to win so it could increase their chances on going through. Comrades Alpha began their match first, even though the match was slow as both teams seem to be a bit cautious in their movement, it ended up in a 1 on 1 between Miftah of Comrades against Dana of Buser Gunners. Both players grabbed the flag on proceed back, as Dana made a run to catch Miftah off guard but Miftah countered with a good piece of gun skill by laning the run of Dana that ended up in a G. Kudos to Miftah, way to step up your game. Now, it was time for  Comrades Beta. A do or die match. One word, BEAST! That's how I would describe the game presented by Ryan Akbar. Like Comrades Alpha last game, this game was also decided by a 1 on 1 with Ryan eventually pulling up the W.

As we waited for the final count to be given, I called up a team meeting. Bang Ikhsan had some words of acknowledge for both teams. As I would say, it was a "grid iron" time. The point was, everybody has to step up, you can't depend only in one person and you have to work as a team. As his speech finish, I added some mock ups to delivery their final punch.

Semifinals draw came up, Comrades Alpha will go against Comrades Beta. It was well expected. As KJ 1 will go against Badak Sumatra. All in a Best of 3 format. The first game of the semis, Alpha and Beta drew a void, as neither team hung the flag. KJ 1 won the first game against Badak Sumatra, as expected. Alpha changed their game plan, using "secret weapon" and won the game easily against Beta. Badak came back and won the second game against KJ 1, as they played very good counter punching paintball. Third game against Alpha and Beta was closer than any other game I saw by Alpha getting the best out of Beta. A good game apparently. The Final game between Badak Sumatra and KJ 1 was next. I was anxious to see what will happen. KJ 1 went for a conservative approach which backed fire completely. KJ 1 never knew what hit them. Counter punching paintball as in affect by Badak Sumatra. A good game by them.

So, for 3rd and 4th place will be between KJ 1 against Comrades Beta. And for the 1st and 2nd place match will be against Badak Sumatra versus Comrades Alpha. The 3rd and 4th placing game was something that Comrades Beta must learn to develop and change. KJ 1 went through the game with a full head of steam. Getting into the snake off the break with ease and causing havoc. It is something that will be taken seriously in the next practice. KJ 1 took 3rd place, but good fight from Beta as they improved from the last tournament. The finals were up next. Badak Sumatra and Comrades Alpha took centerstage. As expected Badak Sumatra broke in a conservative break out posing a counter punching game plan. It actually work out well at first for them as Comrades Alpha had trouble getting to their primary bunkers. The game actually went longer then expected as it came to the wire leaving again Miftah take the flag home. 1-0 to Comrades. Second game, the same as the first. Both teams getting to their bunkers and lock down the zone. It came by on who was eager enough to win and playing tight. On the bad side, Reza Al-Habsyi's marker was down from the beginning of the match leaving Comrades down a marker. All he could do was communicate on what the others could do. To the wire, Miftah made the play of the day by completely dominating the game at these finals, proving that Comrades did actually not just depend on 1 individual to play the game, but everybody can play and step up their game.

Champions.

Enough said.

Congratulation to all podium finishers as they all played great. But a special greet must be given to Comrades Alpha and Beta as they played their heart out this past weekend.

Believe in Your Game.

-MasterMind #07-

A Mind of A Basketball Game

Last week I got a chance to see one of the local basketball leagues here in Medan. It was the Semifinals with a Best of 3 format. 4 teams were competing, let's just say Team A, Team B, Team C and Team D. I got to see all the games last week and it came to my attention that I had to write something.
The first day of the Finals between Team A vs Team B was one sided and also Team C vs Team D was regularly the same result. Team A and Team C got their wins. On Friday it was the second game of the Semis. Team C vs Team D was first, but this time luckily it was a closer game then the last time they meet, even though Team C still got the W. The second game, which brought my attention on writing this, was more "dramatic". Team A vs Team B, if Team A wins then they will advance to the finals and meet with Team C who already was waiting in the finals.
The game started off nicely and highly competitive. Not a lot of calls were made so it was a flowing game. In my opinion, Team B was really on a roll giving much pressure on Team A. Team B was leading, Team A was a bit out of their game where they didn't do much. While Team B was getting buckets in, it was still a tight game. But what I saw was team B were more relax on their set plays more than Team A. I guess Team B was frustrating Team A's offense a bit.
After a timeout, team A was on the offense. They called a play, doing a double screen on top of the key. Then it happened, a player in Team B all the sudden went down, the referee's didn't call anything because it was away from the ball (maybe they didn't see it). Play continued and team A scored. Afterwards the Refs called time because the player was still down. That's when all hell broke loose.
Ok, here's what I say. Team A called a play, had a double pick on top of the key. They set the screen nicely until one of the players on Team A putting the pick did it illegally. Let's just say he did more then giving a screen with a fist plus off hand. He got the player for team B directly on the eye socket. I could immediately see him with a black eye. The player was pissed off, with anger pursuing the guy who did it, and also his teammates were pissed. Officials came and sorted things out, eagerly separating the two teams. Both captains were called and consulted. I could see the crowd yelling and screaming all kinds of stuff.
My opinion, basketball is a contact sport. There is no way that in a game of basketball there will be no sort of contact in any means. It's not dirty, but it is what it is. Players will throw elbows, putting in knees, grabbing, bumping, sometimes kicking and headbutting, but hey, it's a contact sport. Bodies will colide and naturally will get bruises and pain and what not. But, I not saying that I approve what the player from team A did. I think it was shameful. Plus the fact that he is more "professional" type of player. But I could see the reason why he did it. His team, Team A, was frustrated. And he wanted to send a message, but in the wrong way. It's a shame I say.
Team B caught my eye when all the sudden they eventually "walked out" of the semis. Now that I personally disapprove. Why the hell would you do that? It's a sport and you ruin it by doing a walk out. I know, the crowd was behind Team B's decision to walk out. But personally, what a shame.
Here's why. Team B was still leading and what you could say on top with momentum on their hands. Team A was frustrated, doing desperate measures. And if it went to the line, I'd say Team B would win that game causing a third and final game. But no, they choose a cowardly choice by a walk out.
I mean, I understand, your player was cheated and you feel the referees who didn't see it wasn't fair. And you feel, well, cheated I guess. But, It's still a sport, It's still a sportsman right. And if you truly are a sportsman, what you would do is "hit" them with points. Hurt them by winning. Cause them pain by the fact that what they did didn't have affect on you and score points. It will hurt them more than you doing a walk out. Where the fact the see you differently and cowardly.
I've been a basketball referee before. And I can say that it is hard. Trying to make the right calls for each moment. You have to remember that referees are not judges, they are there so the match can be formed and maintain through out. It's not easy. And you have to consider the fact that, we are humans, and we do make mistakes.
I personally saw that at least one player in Team B still wanted to play. I saw it in his eyes, he believed that his team could win. But when his team decided to walk out, I saw disappointment. He was the last man out of the locker room. I know how he feels.
That's the difference of being a professional on what you do and not.
And it is the simple fact of being able to compete in anyways that divides the Pros and the Amateurs.
For what's worth, these kind of things like walk outs must stop. It hurts the game. It hurts the sport in general.
Kudos to the player who still wanted to play! I see u kid!

Mastermind out.

Season Opener - MPOC 1st Leg 2013

I wasn't expecting to play this MPOC because I planned to start my Paintball season on PALS Bangkok 2013. I was contacted by my friend Mahmood Setiaraja and asked if I wanted to play at MPOC 1st leg. It was great getting an offer to play paintball, but due too personal reasons, I couldn't answer right away. I talked to my great friend Hadi Gunawan about this and he said to me it would be good playing for Waxers Legion, so eventually I said yes. Hadi and I will be playing for Waxers Legion this first MPOC for the 2013 season!
The day before my flight to Kuala Lumpur, Hadi explained that he might not be able to come due to the flood in Jakarta, but I still had hope he could come as he is my mentor in Paintball and I learn this sport a lot from him. My flight was in early Friday Morning, 6.20 am. I arrived at LCCT airport Kuala Lumpur around 8 o'clock in the morning. I asked Hadi whether or not the situation in Jakarta has resolved, but it came to a fact that flood got worst, so it was confirmed that my friend couldn't come to MPOC this leg.
I got some maps of Kuala Lumpur and had breakfast while looking at the maps so I could find a good way to travel ( I had to go to Sri Petaling ). After finishing my breakfast and a long hard studying the map, I came to a conclusion, I have to ask somebody (Hahahaha). So, I went to the information desk and asked for directions. After getting them, it was smooth sailing. I took a bus to the train station. After arriving, I took the train to Bandar Tasik Selatan. I love riding the train. It was full air conditioned and had a comfy feeling. I arrived at Bandar Tasik Selatan train station and had to switch trains using the IRT to go to Sri Petaling train station. From this point it felt like I was in Amazing Race (hahaha). Do know I was carrying my backpack and my really big Planet Eclipse Paintball gearbag.
Soon as I got to Sri Petaling train station I realize I had no idea where I am, so glad I had a smartphone, and I used it for good terms. I opened the GPS system so I know where I was. I searched for Citotel Hotel and got the directions. It was a half an hour walk, so I decided I would walk from the train station to the hotel. I did exactly that. And five minutes on to my walked I looked at the GPS again. I had been walking the wrong way. Fuuuuuuuuh!
I turned around and walked the right way. 15 minutes into my walk, some police officers driving a car stopped me ( maybe was curious because I was walking with a Big Planet Eclipse Gearbag ). They asked me for my documents and where was I going and what was I doing in Kuala Lumpur. I gave my documents and said I was going to play in a Paintball Tournament and they immediately knew what was paintball, gave back my documents and told me to have a safe walk. I was really amazed that here Paintball is really big and how it reflects on people here. The policemen's face was all curious with me but when I said paintball they were all smiles and helpful.
I arrived at Citotel Hotel and checked in. I decided to take a nap before heading to the field. I woke up at 3 in the afternoon with a big hunger. I took a shower and then went downstairs to have lunch. After paying I made my way to Bukit Jalil Stadium, it was a 15 minute walk so I took my time. Got to the field and walked the field. I met Zack and the others from Beezwaxers and went back to the hotel with them. I got a text to be at the field at 6.45am, so I went to bed early.
The following day I woke up at 4.30am, took a bath and prepared my gear for day 1 of MPOC 2013. I went downstairs to go to 7-11 and bought some beverages and breakfast, took my gearbag and headed to the field.
Day 1. The team was quite new, bringing some new players in and so it took awhile for us to gel. We won our first game against Asia All-Stars (All Ladies Team) 3-2, it was a grind till the end while we were still figuring things out. Drew our 2nd game against Throne 2-2 where it was a real tight game. We lost our 3rd and 4th game against CMX and Kraken and that was it for Day 1.
Day 2. We started off bringing a new vibe in. Last day was last day, today was a new beginning. We had one more prelim game against Lost boys, and to secure a spot in the quarter finals we had to win this game. We were confident. It was a back and forth battle, but in the end we lost 3-2. So, then came the long wait whether or not we qualify. We kept our heads high, still believing that there is still a chance to go through. And it happened! We qualified for the 8th and final spot! We barely squeezed in.
Here's the thing about Paintball. The team that squeezes in for a final spot will really had to grind their way in. Giving them a huge boost of momentum and confidence with new beliefs. That's what happened with us! We were up against the top qualifier with new hopes and confidence. It was like a wake up call, and it was time to take whats there! We won our quarter finals in a total grind out match, leaving it to the last second to take the win. As the progressed to the semi finals, we watch our opponents carefully. Our semi final match was against CMX. A really good team that had beaten us in the prelims. But this is different, this wasn't prelims anymore. There was a new vibe in the team, new confidence that we could take them on and bring our best shot. And there it was, playing really good and tight, we defeated CMX to reach the finals!
This will be my first time playing in a finals match! It was a huge moment for me. So I had to be ready! We were up against Throne. We drew against them in the prelims. A good team with a packed roster. But we knew we were ready.
2 minutes until the Final game starts. We walked in, got gun checked and waited. 1 minute. 30 seconds. 10 seconds. This is it, the Finals! Everything I've worked on the offseason comes to this moment and I knew I had to leave all in the field. I knew, My Teammates knew. The buzzer goes off and the Finals match begins. It was a long point where we lost a close one. 0-1 to Throne. We got back to the pits. No need to panic, fill up and pod up and go kick ass.
10 seconds. The second point about to go off. The buzzer blew, we were off. Same as the first point, this point was no different. A very long point, ended up with a 2 on 2 with me and Ayie left against Throne's back center and snake player. I heard my teammates coaching me from outside. I had full confidence from them as they guided me to make a move. Once we finished off the snake player we closed in on the remaining back center, finished him off and push the buzzer. Great job! 1-1! With only 35 seconds left. The third point ended with a void because time ran out. Overtime!
10 seconds! This is it! The final point on our finals match. All I could think off was, leave everything on the field. The buzzer sounded, and we flew.
Eventually, we came up short. Losing the last point and giving the championship to Throne. Well deserved by the way. Take nothing from them, they played a heck of a game!
1st Runner Up with Waxers Legion at MPOC 1st Leg 2013!! And All Waxers Family, Beezwaxers, Waxers Legion and Hornet Waxers went to the Finals in the own Division! A great day for the Waxers Family!
Not a bad way of starting the paintball season!
Now it's time to go back home and train even harder. Fix my mistakes, learn to be better. So that the goal of being on top will be there!
This is my life, This is Paintball.

-Mastermind #07-