EXCLUSIVE | Markus Horison: From Amateur Striker to Garuda Goalkeeper, A Journey Full of Sacrifices

Fogen Bolung
23 Jan 2025
11:53

MARKUS Horison, a legendary goalkeeper of Indonesia, has made his name in the world of football through a journey filled with hard work and perseverance. 

Markus Horison

Born on March 14, 1981, in Pangkalan Brandan, North Sumatra, Markus never imagined that he would wear the Indonesian National Team jersey. 

Markus Horison, exclusively for Telecom Asia Sport
Born on March 14, 1981, in Pangkalan Brandan, North Sumatra, Markus never imagined that he would wear the Indonesian National Team jersey.

Markus' journey in football started far from luxury. In Langkat, his hometown, football was more of a pastime than a serious sport, with no coaches or proper facilities. The goalkeeper position, which is his specialty now, wasn't his first choice. 

Markus Horison
I used to play as a striker, even tried being a defender. Goalkeeper? That wasn’t my choice, but since no one wanted to play as a goalkeeper in the youth academy, I was forced to take over.

Despite conceding many goals early on, his determination to keep learning never faded.

A major decision came when Markus decided to join the selection at the Provincial Student Athlete Training Center (PPLP). Out of more than a hundred participants, only three goalkeepers were selected. 

Markus Horison
I had no experience, no coach, just enthusiasm. But maybe because of my tall physique, I was chosen.
Markus Horison

This is where discipline started changing everything. Markus had to follow a strict routine: training at 5 a.m., then school, and back to training in the afternoon.

Markus Horison
Sometimes I was so tired I skipped school, but I knew that this training would shape my future.

During his time at PPLP, even though he was only the third-choice goalkeeper, he began to sharpen his skills and resilience. After graduation, Markus began his professional journey at the amateur club Binjai. It was here that his tough coach began to shape him. 

Markus Horison
The physical training the coach gave us was intense. If you didn’t vomit, training wasn’t over. I used to resist, but now I understand, it was all to build my mental and physical strength as a goalkeeper.

In 2003, Markus took a big step forward when he debuted with PSMS Medan. His consistent performances led him to play for major clubs in Indonesia, such as Persik Kediri, Arema Malang, and Persib Bandung. However, the most monumental moment was when he had the chance to represent the Indonesian National Team. His international debut on June 1, 2007, against Hong Kong made history, with Indonesia winning 3-0.

Markus' peak international career came during the 2010 AFF Suzuki Cup. Although Indonesia only finished as runners-up, Markus played as the first-choice goalkeeper and stood as a solid last line of defense for the Garuda team. 

Markus Horison
Being part of the National Team is every player's dream. Every time I wore the Garuda jersey, it felt like more than just a match, it was an honor and a great responsibility.

In addition to his on-field achievements, Markus also received various awards, including Best Player at the 2006 Bang Yos Gold Cup. In 2008, he was even nominated for the Best Player in Asia, an outstanding milestone in his career.

Markus Horison
I always try to give my best. Not just for the club or the national team, but for myself.
Markus Horison

After retiring, Markus didn't stop in the world of football. In 2018, he began a new journey as a goalkeeper coach at Aceh United, mentoring the next generation. In 2023, he launched Friends Cafe and Kiyopta Boutique in Bandung, showing that he is also a successful entrepreneur. 

Markus Horison
I always believe that life is a journey of learning. Whatever I do, I want to give my best.

Markus Horison's story is a true testament that with determination, discipline, and fighting spirit, anything is possible. From a small town far from the spotlight, he broke through boundaries and became one of Indonesia's best goalkeepers

Markus Horison
Dreams don’t happen instantly, everything needs a process. And it’s that process that makes us stronger.
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