Groens Cup, PPIG's gallant sports event

The Jakarta Post, Rendi A. Witular

The Association of Indonesian Students in Groningen (PPIG) in the Netherlands has maintained the tradition of organizing probably Indonesia's largest sporting event overseas.

The sixth annual sport event, dubbed the Groens Cup, was held on May 26 and 27 in Groningen, with the sole intention of forging kinship not only between Indonesians residing in the Netherlands but also those of Indonesian descent who have become Dutch nationals.

"Groens Cup is the only event that can unite Indonesian people from all cities in the Netherlands regardless of their religion and ethnic identity back home," said Joko Tirto Rahardjo, current PPIG chairman.

The association was the sole organizer of Groens Cup, which was participated by around 110 Indonesians from 11 cities in the Netherlands, including several diplomats from the Indonesian embassy.

Taking into account the accompanying supporters -- including children and the elderly -- it is estimated that 700 Indonesians flocked to the Groningen's ACLO sport complex, turning it completely into an Indonesian hamlet filled with original Indonesian food, writing and songs.

"It is the kind of Indonesian environment that we want to create here: uniting Indonesian people together, helping them create a network and fostering friendship. Groens Cup is more than just a competition, its spirit stretches beyond that," said Joko.

Indeed, participants in the event have not only focused on competing with each other in sport, but also with other kinds of social activities ranging from seeking contacts for jobs to finding potential life partners.

"The competition is not a big matter for me. Finding new friends is one of my priorities. Who knows, I may find the love of my life here, or I might even find a business contact who can help me export goods from Indonesia," said Rulli Putra, a participant.

PPIG put up six sports for this year -- badminton, indoor soccer, volleyball, table tennis, basketball and chess.

The contingent from Rotterdam secured most of the gold medals, making them the general winner of the event, followed by a contingent from the Indonesian embassy and the host contingent.

According to Joko, the association spent 5,000 to 6,000 euros on organizing the event; the association was assisted by 40 PPIG members who had made a firm commitment to help prepare the event since the end of last year.

Funding has been derived from various sponsors in Groningen, ranging from universities to Indonesian-owned small businesses, and from fees paid by participants.

Although funds were limited, the organizers have managed to provide a comprehensive service for participants, including pickup service, meals, housing and tour guides.

As for the organizers, the motivation in holding the events lies in the fact that Groens Cup has become an annual tradition that all Indonesians in the Netherlands eagerly await. It is an event where homesickness can be alleviated a little.

"Groens Cup has become a trademark. Although most of us (the organizers) are busy with studying, somehow we managed to secure time for it. I think unity among Indonesian students here is what drives us forward," said Febry Budianto, one of the organizers.