“If you are not prepared enough to be confident in yourself, you will not be able to seize the opportunity when it comes.”
Goalkeeper Kim Min-joon (23) of Cheonan City FC in the professional soccer K League 2 has been through several professional teams despite his modest age. He is currently the oldest and most experienced goalkeeper on the team. His chances of becoming the team’s first goalkeeper throughout his professional career are now very high. However, there is no such thing as an easy-to-get opportunity. Through his experience, Kim Min-joon understands the truth that ‘only those who are prepared can get a chance’.
After graduating from Boin High School, Kim Min-joon joined Sonan Bellmare in Japan’s J1 League in 2019. After his signing, he spent two seasons on loan with Fukushima United in the J3 League. Afterwards, he moved to Gyeongnam FC (2021) of the K League 2 under coach Seol Ki-hyun, and last year he played the season as a member of Gimhae City Hall in the K3 League. Because he was the second and third-choice goalkeeper both in Japan and in Korea, his league appearances are not many. He played 2 matches in his career in the K League 2.
Kim Min-joon, who starts the 2023 season anew at Cheonan City FC, said, “There is no psychological burden or impatience just because there are few opportunities to participate. Rather, I am worried that an opportunity will suddenly come when I am not ready while being greedy, and that I will harm the team. If you are thoroughly prepared for your skills and physical condition, the opportunity will surely come, and you will be able to seize it with confidence.” 메이저놀이터
Kim Min-joon, who is participating in the winter field training in Chonburi, Thailand, said, “Goalkeeper coach Kwon Chan-soo emphasizes the basics a lot. He is fixing bad habits and making good ones,” he said, soaking the ground with sweat every day. “I learned a lot about the build-up in Japan because it is important for goalkeepers to participate in the build-up process. The accuracy of the kick is good, but there is a weakness in the distance, so I am trying to make up for it.”
What is Kim Min-joon’s resolution for the season when he may be given a chance, so winter training is more important? He said, “I think I will be able to experience more meaningful and diverse experiences at Cheonan City FC, which is newly participating in the professional league. It is true that training is difficult, but you have to work hard to prepare for this season. As a goalkeeper, I will do my best to prepare for a stable and reliable play.”