Both on the field and throughout the community, 19-year-old Sidas Praleika shines this year. The talented footballer has become one of the most important players of “Banga,” and his form displayed during the summer did not go unnoticed by football experts. S. Praleika was recognized as the best young footballer of the “Toplyga” for the months of June–July.
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The young athlete was also not indifferent to the current events in Gargždai. He joined the fans and the entire football community and participated in the picket held last week.
“It is very pleasing and nice to have such a community that fights for us and all of Gargždai football. At the moment, I think Gargždai footballers lack opportunities to train in winter. And not only for us but also for young players. I would really like more trust from the municipality,” admitted S. Praleika.
Having secured a place in the starting lineup, S. Praleika played six matches and scored a goal during the June–July period. His solid play in midfield largely contributes to “Banga” still being among the top five leaders as the last round of “Toplyga” begins and continuing to fight for the highest positions. Very important matches will take place on August 30, when “Banga” will host the champion “Kauno Žalgiris,” so Gargždai fans need strong spectator support.
“I won’t hide it – sooner or later I expected to receive the best young footballer award, but it is still very nice to win it. It means a lot not only to me but to the whole team because the club contributed to this award. It gives me the opportunity to trust myself more and think about higher awards,” emphasized S. Praleika.
The combative footballer has a simple but very important explanation for his progress.
“It’s very simple – in every training session, in every match, you have to give 120% of yourself, listen to the coaches and more experienced team players. Also – never stop believing that you can,” said the “Banga” talent.
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In the Gargždai club, as in many other Lithuanian teams, there are quite a few foreign players. However, “Banga” tries to develop Lithuanians and find places for them in the lineup or give them the opportunity to shine. S. Praleika uses his chance excellently.
“In football, a lot depends on the trust of the coaches. Without it, it is hard to reveal yourself. In ‘Banga,’ all players are equal, and those who try the hardest, show the best form, and best meet the coach’s requirements play in matches,” admitted S. Praleika.
If the problems with training during the winter period are not resolved quickly, Gargždai currently has one of the best conditions in all of Lithuania during the warm season. This year, the “Banga camp” campsite was opened – a football infrastructure with no analogue in Lithuania, capable of hosting 128 campers and ensuring full conditions for developing the skills of young footballers. This campsite immediately became an attractive place for various clubs, football schools, and organizations.
S. Praleika has already tried this campsite and confirmed the good reviews with his experience.
“The new Gargždai football campsite really surprised me. The quality of the fields is really high level, and everything needed is there: a hall, accommodation, etc. As a footballer, I think there is nothing better than training on excellent watered grass. For young people to prepare for the season, this is definitely a great place,” said the footballer.
However, the men’s team starts preparing for the season in winter, so “Banga” footballers will have to look for solutions and travel to Latvia for a while. Still, now “Banga” believes that the Klaipėda district will fulfill its promises, and Gargždai will soon have both a new indoor arena and a renovated central stadium, where the club will delight with its victories not only in Lithuania but also at the international level.
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