New Start for Jin

This season might be different?

It is a question about Jin Soon-jin, for whom the modifier "unfortunate" is always put before his name. In this respect, his performance in the season opener on March 23 conveyed a special meaning to him. He scored two and assisted one. For the past five years as a pro soccer player, he recorded only seven goals in 35 games. Probably that is why he was all smiles on his face under the media spotlight after the game. In the game, assisting the season first goal, he scored two himself in a row.

His soccer life is like a long drama. He first got under the spotlight when former national team coach Cha Bum-guen put him on the team. Graduating from Sangjee University, he was playing for Hallelujah. Thus, it was a surprise to all. He performed well, scoring most in the `97 National Soccer Championship. He, however, was an amateur at that time. But he failed to live up to expectations, and was removed from the national team, falling into abyss of memory.

Again in 1999, he attracted the media spotlight as to the drafting. Ahnyang with its priority in drafting chose him.

Failing again to live up to exceptions due to the back injury, Jin scored only one goal in 11 games in his debut year. Next year, in a traffic accident, he had his neck and ribs broken, getting bogged down into the slump. With more and more days idled around and wasted because of the injuries suffered in the clash, his team officially announced in May, 2001 that it could, or alternatively Jin could sever the relationship at any time. In response, determined to put an end to his career, Jin did not join training or participate in any activities of the team.

Then, the opportunity came to him with coach Cho Kwong-rae taking the helm of Ahnyang. In his first year as Ahnyang coach, Cho gave one more last chance to him, and seemingly in appreciation and return for the favor, he scored six in the 18 games that took place in the latter half of last year`s season.

Jin promises to himself that he would pour in whatever he has this year. In preparation, he went through all the harsh training programs last winter without any complaint. Making up for his lack of physical power, he secured his spot in the offense lineup. All his sweats showed something in the season opening game. Despite his "unnatural" form, he finishes up 100m in 12 seconds. In addition, he is a "switch-kicker" in that he shoots off his left and right foot at his will. Now, let`s wait and see how wonderful a play he will show to us.

Sang-Ho Kim hyangsan@donga.com