Universitas PGRI Madiun (UNIPMA) has taken an innovative step by forming the UNIPMA Football Club, a football team for UNIPMA lecturers. This initiative is not just a sporting event, but also an important platform to strengthen togetherness and improve the physical and mental well-being of lecturers.

According to Andri Wahyu Utomo, S.Pd., M.Or, the initiator of the team, football was chosen because of its universal nature and significant health benefits. "We chose football because this sport can be enjoyed by many people and provides great benefits for physical and mental health. Through this activity, we hope to create an atmosphere of togetherness and cohesiveness among lecturers," he said enthusiastically, Friday, 02/08/2024, yesterday.

The enthusiasm of the lecturers in welcoming the formation of this team was very high. Samsul Arifin, M.Pd., one of the active members, described the experience of playing football together as something refreshing. "Football is not only a sport for us, but also a moment to release stress, share laughter, and strengthen bonds between colleagues. This is an initiative that we really need to maintain a balanced life," he said.

UNIPMA Football Club's training activities have started since June 2024. The lecturers hold regular training, with a schedule that is adjusted so as not to interfere with academic activities. Not only that, the team has also held several friendly matches, including against Muslim Madiun FC at the Madiun City Wilis Stadium on Wednesday, 31/07/2024. This activity not only improves fitness, but also builds a competitive and collaborative spirit among lecturers.

Agung Dwi Darmawan, M.Pd., as the team manager, revealed exciting future plans. "We have scheduled friendly matches with teacher groups in Magetan District, East Java, as well as a professional team in Sragen District, Central Java, in August and September 2024. This is the first step of many positive activities to come," he explained.

Through the UNIPMA Football Club, lecturers not only gain health benefits, but also find new ways to establish a spirit of togetherness outside the classroom. The team is proof that sport can be an effective tool in building a healthy and solid community, and supporting the achievement of better academic goals at UNIPMA.