Solo, C. Java. Representing Indonesia on the international stage is the ultimate dream for many young footballers. For four talented players from Papua Football Academy (PFA)—Yance Glen Imbiri, Dolvi Salossa, Stenly Meyanu, and Melki Yatipai—that dream is now becoming a reality as they earn places in the Indonesia U-17 national team's training camp.

Their achievement reflects years of dedication, discipline, and character-building fostered by Papua Football Academy, a social investment program fully funded by PT Freeport Indonesia.

Launched on Aug. 31, 2022, PFA was established as part of Freeport Indonesia's long-term commitment to developing Papua's human resources through education and football. Building on the legacy of the 2021 Papua National Sports Week (PON XX), the academy utilizes world-class sporting facilities in Mimika to nurture the next generation of athletes.

While each player's journey has been different, they share the same values cultivated at the academy: hard work, resilience, teamwork, and faith.

A Life-Changing Opportunity
For Melki Yatipai, the call-up came unexpectedly during an internal match held as part of a coaching clinic organized by Indonesia's Football Association (PSSI) and representatives from the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) at the Mimika Sport Complex.

The versatile defender and defensive midfielder recalled being surprised when coaches informed him that he had been selected for the Indonesia U-17 training camp. Inspired by Senegalese star Sadio Mané, Melki credits PFA for sharpening not only his tactical understanding but also his discipline and personal development, while guidance from academy coaches helped him settle into his current position.

Learning Beyond the Pitch
Forward Dolvi Salossa began his journey after joining PFA's selection process in 2023. The son of Indonesian football legend Ortizan Salossa quickly adapted to the academy's structured environment, balancing football training, formal education, character development, and disciplined daily routines.

His impressive performances—including finishing as top scorer at the Barati Cup International U-14 (2024), Garuda International Cup U-15 (2025), and the National Soeratin Cup U-15 (2025)—earned him national recognition.

One of the defining moments in his development came earlier this year when he joined PFA's Elite Camp in Austria alongside teammates Jupri Kogoya and Yance Glen Imbiri. During the month-long program, they trained with FK Austria Wien, FAC Wien, and First Vienna FC, gaining valuable insights into European football, from tactical decision-making to professionalism on and off the field.

Growing Through Challenges
Midfielder Stenly Meyanu discovered his national team opportunity only after scouts quietly monitored his performances at the National Soeratin Cup U-15.

Beyond technical development, Stenly believes PFA helped him build mental strength and adaptability—qualities that have become essential as he adjusts to the faster pace and higher demands of the national team environment.

Meanwhile, Yance Glen Imbiri describes discipline as the academy's biggest lesson. The teenager from Waropen says the academy's daily routine, including waking up at 5 a.m., transformed his habits and strengthened his work ethic.

His commitment paid off with a call-up to the Indonesia U-17 squad just before completing his education at PFA. Looking ahead, Glen dreams of one day playing for Spanish giants FC Barcelona, using every challenge as motivation to continue improving.

A Symbol of Papua's Football Potential
The four youngsters recently featured in Indonesia U-17's training matches against Malaysia U-17 at Manahan Stadium in Solo, helping the Garuda Muda record a goalless draw before securing a convincing 3-0 victory in the second meeting.

Their progress highlights the growing impact of structured youth development in Papua. More than individual success stories, they represent the promise of long-term investment in young talent, demonstrating how access to quality coaching, education, and character development can help aspiring footballers reach the national stage.

Through Papua Football Academy, PT Freeport Indonesia continues to invest in the next generation of Papuan youth—creating opportunities not only to excel in football, but also to develop the discipline, confidence, and leadership needed to pursue their ambitions both on and off the pitch.

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