Nurturing Dreams from the Ground Up: PFA Launches Fourth-Year Recruitment for Papuan Soccer Talents
13 May 2025
Open to boys aged 13 years old with a passion for soccer.
We believe the system in place continues to nurture future generations who can thrive.
In a vibrant opening ceremony of Papua Football Academy (PFA) “Cari Bakat” (searching for talents) held in Timika (5/9), PFA officially launched its fourth annual recruitment program aimed at identifying and nurturing young Papuan soccer talents. The initiative, strongly supported by PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) through its Community Development department, has become a vital platform for empowering local youth through sports and education.
Open to boys aged 13 years old with a passion for soccer, the academy focuses on holistic development – cultivating not only athletic skills but also discipline, teamwork, and academic growth. Since the program began, 24 young athletes have proudly graduated. Of those, 18 advanced to professional soccer academies, while the others chose to pursue higher education through bachelor’s or diploma programs.
“We hope this initiative can inspire coaches and young soccer players to continue developing their skills, and we are open for coaches to direct their students to join us,” said Wolfgang Pikal, Director of PFA. “With a two to three years training period in PFA, we are optimistic that talented players will emerge, who will later contribute at the national level.” 
This year’s recruitment drive will span across 17 cities in the Papua Region, including Timika, Nabire, Sorong, Manokwari, Jayapura, Merauke and 11 other cities beginning on May 10 through June 8, 2025. The selection process will include open tryouts to see their skills. 60 chosen candidates will have a final selection process in early July 2025.
“PFA has grown into a place where young talents are shaped – not only as athletes, but as individuals equipped with discipline, life values, and academic strength,” said Engel Enoch, Vice President Sustainable Development & Community Relations. “We believe the system in place continues to nurture future generations who can thrive both on the soccer field and in life beyond it.”
Now entering its fourth year, PFA continues to strengthen its mission of building opportunities for Papuan youth – both on and off the field – with the steady encouragement of PTFI. The upcoming recruitment tour represents another exciting chapter in a growing legacy of transformation through sport.
Below are the locations, dates, and cities for the upcoming recruitment tour. If your child is passionate about soccer, don't miss the chance to join the selection process.
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