Chapter 13 : Community Event

At the news station, the interviewer, Lana Evans, greeted Rahmat warmly. "Mr Rahmat, thank you for joining us. I have to say, you've been a breath of fresh air for Luton Town, and I think everyone would agree that the energy you've brought is remarkable."

Rahmat smiled. "Thank you, Ms evans. I'm just glad I can be part of something so special. Luton is a town with so much heart, and it's an honor to work with players who reflect that every time they step onto the pitch."

Lana leaned forward, intrigued. "You're more than just a manager to this town, Mr Rahmat. We've seen the murals, the children wearing the players' names on their backs, and the local businesses thriving thanks to the newfound interest in the club. Did you ever imagine you'd have this kind of impact?"

Rahmat shook his head, his voice reflective. "I didn't, to be honest. I came here to coach, to help this team find its place in the Premier League. But the support, the passion from everyone here—it's overwhelming. It's inspired me as much as the team, and it drives us to keep pushing forward."

Lana continued, "Speaking of the team, players like Barou, Wakabayashi, and Aoyama have become local heroes. Tell us about them and what they bring not just to the pitch, but to the community."

Rahmat chuckled, thinking about each player. "Barou, he's… let's just say he's got an unstoppable hunger to win. He's intense, and that energy is infectious. Wakabayashi—he's the kind of leader who brings calm and confidence. And Aoyama, he's like a silent strategist, always two steps ahead. Each of them brings something unique to the team, and I think the fans see a bit of themselves in those players. They're not just playing for themselves; they're playing for everyone in Luton."

The interview aired that evening, and Rahmat's words resonated with viewers. He had captured not only the spirit of his team but also the essence of the town itself. The broadcast was followed by a segment showcasing the community initiatives that had sprung up thanks to the team's success. Local businesses were sponsoring youth soccer leagues, and there were plans for a community day where Luton Town players would visit local schools and inspire the next generation.

---

Later in the week, the club organized a community event at the stadium, inviting families, children, and fans of all ages to meet the players and participate in a fun day of activities. There were stations set up for kids to learn basic football skills, a photo booth with cutouts of the players, and a QnA session where Rahmat, Barou, Wakabayashi, Aoyama and few luton player answered questions from fans.

One young boy, no older than seven, raised his hand and asked Barou, "How do you score so many goals?"

Barou smirked, "Simple. I don't play to be good; I play to be the best. I look at every defender as an obstacle in my way, and I break through. If you want to score, don't just kick the ball—own it. Make it do what you want."

The crowd chuckled, and the boy looked at Barou with wide eyes, clearly inspired.

Wakabayashi, on the other hand, spoke to the kids about hard work and discipline. "It's not about talent alone. Every day, you have to push yourself, even when it's tough. A team is only as strong as its dedication, and that's something you can control."

Then a teenage fan, wearing a Luton Town scarf, turned to Aoyama. "Aoyama, how do you always seem to know where to pass the ball? It's like you're one step ahead!"

Aoyama, typically reserved, thought for a moment before answering. "I observe. Football isn't just about skill; it's about seeing the field, understanding where everyone is, and predicting where they're going to be. The more you play and study the game, the clearer it becomes. So keep watching and learning—you'll get there."

The fans clapped, appreciating Aoyama's thoughtful response.

Next, a young girl with a Luton Town jersey looked toward Arhan, who had recently made a name for himself with his signature long throws. "Arhan, how do you throw the ball so far? It looks like magic!"

Arhan grinned and held up his hands. "It's not magic; it's practice. I work on my strength and technique, and I focus on accuracy. A long throw is like a pass; you aim where you want it to go, and then you put everything into it. Anyone can learn it if they're dedicated."

The girl nodded seriously, clearly motivated to practice her own throws.

Finally, a fan asked Justin Hubner, "Justin, what's it like playing with so many different types of players? How do you all work together?"

Justin, ever the team player, replied, "We all bring something unique to the team, and that's what makes it work. It's like a puzzle; everyone's piece is different, but together we make a complete picture. We support each other, learn from each other, and that's what makes us stronger as a team."

Rahmat watched with pride as his players interacted with the fans, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment. They were no longer just athletes; they were role models and symbols of what Luton could achieve.

As the sun began to set, Rahmat took a moment to himself, standing at the edge of the field, looking out at the families and fans who had gathered. He felt a surge of gratitude, not just for the opportunity to manage this team but for the journey they were all on together. He knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but with the support of the community and the determination of his players, there was no limit to what they could achieve.

And as the fans chanted "Luton Town! Luton Town!" into the evening sky, Rahmat smiled, knowing that they were building something lasting—something that went beyond football. This was about hope, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a town and its team.