by Francisco Behan Morillo
Tony Janzen, former professional Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) soccer player, age 30, visited Cambodia on a mission trip and ended up playing for the CMAC FC, a professional soccer club. During this unplanned adventure, Janzen faced many hardships. But, with the struggles, came rewards. I have interviewed him and this is the result.
The government in Cambodia is very corrupt, so it is difficult to stand up for yourself, Janzen states. It is so corrupt that “People were using social media to speak out.” Also, because he was on a mission trip with MCC, Tony Janzen couldn’t get paid. He says “… When I’m working with MCC, I couldn’t get paid.”
As mentioned previously, these struggles did have consolation. For one, there were fun, challenging opponents, he said. Cambodian professional soccer is tougher because of “the speed of the game.” Additionally, you get to meet many nice and friendly people.
There were many difficulties for Tony Janzen, but they were almost all worth it.