Sunday Chronicle PNG Sports

Four nations rugby league challenge set

2010-04-04T16:23:00.000+10:00

Tok Mix Dogs against Lealea tussle in the Masta Mark Easter Cup challenge in Port Moresby. The competition involves teams from NCD off-season leagues and Central province. The teams are playing for K25,000 prizemoney sponsored by Masta Mark principal Kelly Aiyok and is being held at Hohola and Kone Tigers fields. The competition Started on Tues last week and will end tomorrow. Picture by JOSEPH IVAHARIA.

THE draws for the 2010 Four Nations rugby league challenge has been announced. England will face co-hosts New Zealand at Wellington's Westpac Stadium in the opening match of the tournament while Papua New Guinea will play Australia at Parramatta Stadium, Australia.

The seven-match event in Australia and New Zealand starts on Oct 23, with the final in Brisbane on Nov 13.
Melbourne stages the Australia-England clash on Oct 31 and England play Papua New Guinea in Auckland.

That match takes place at a new-look 50,000-capacity Eden Park on Nov 6 and is part of a double-header as holders Australia play New Zealand. There are also games in Rotorua and Parramatta.

The inaugural tournament in 2009 culminated in Australia beating England 46-16 at Elland Road.
And Australia Rugby League chairman Colin Love said he was confident the 2010 edition would prove as popular, adding: "The first Four Nations series was an overwhelming success at every level.

"The excitement among English crowds and international television audiences again demonstrated the tremendous appetite that exists for international rugby league.

"The rivalry between Australia, New Zealand and England couldn't be more intense and PNG have proven time and again that they can mix it with anyone on the day.

"This is going to be a fabulous contest that will bring together the best players in the game over three incredible weeks of matches."

Organisers are hoping to set a new crowd record at Eden Park, which has been re-developed to host the 2011 Rugby World Cup, topping the 47,363 for the 1988 World Cup final.

"This double-header will be the biggest rugby league event in New Zealand since 1988 and could become the biggest of all time," said New Zealand Rugby League chief executive Jim Doyle.

"It will be a tremendous moment for the game to have rugby league's major powers all playing at the same ground on the same day.

"It's also a huge honour for our game that we'll actually be giving the new-look Eden Park one of its first major attractions."

2010 Four Nations schedule:
Oct 23: New Zealand v England, Westpac Stadium, Wellington.
Oct 24: Australia v Papua New Guinea, Parramatta Stadium.
Oct 30: New Zealand v Papua New Guinea, International Stadium, Rotorua.
Oct 31: Australia v England, Melbourne (venue tbc).
Nov 6: England v Papua New Guinea, Eden Park, Auckland.
Nov 6: New Zealand v Australia, Eden Park, Auckland.
Nov 13: Final, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

PNG recruits to help Blues

2010-04-04T16:15:00.000+10:00

PNG players (from left) Fredinand Musi, Ali Pinda, Henry Henry, Ogla Pena, Paul Philip, John Ikupu Junior, Emmanuel Tupia, Johnny Vogae, Freddy Peni (obscured) and Gagu Kaiyage will play for Coolangatta Picture by SCOTT FLETCHER.

By NICK SMART

THEY play for the Coolangatta Blues in the Townsville but it looks more like the Papua New Guinea Aussie rules national team.

Fresh off a wooden spoon last year, new Blues President Scott Reid, who is also the president of AFL-PNG, has secured the services of 10 players from PNG to boost the club.

John Vogae, Ogla Pena, Freddie Peni, Emmanuel Tupia, Junior John Ikupu, Ferdinand Musi, Ali Pinda, Paul Phillip, Gagu Kaiyage and Junior Henry will all play for the Blues this season.

AFL PNG, which has been funded by the AFL for almost 10 years, has had players in Queensland on scholarship as part of its Coca Cola Talent Program for several years.

Coolangatta is a partner club and more than happy to accommodate the players, who range from the age of 17 to 24, from PNG for 2010.

"They bring a lot of run and fitness and with their attitude they are great to have around because they enjoy their footy," said Reid.

Reid said the boys have already fit right in down at Len Peak Oval.

"One of the things we are a little bit conscious of is we are bringing so many in to Coolangatta and you can sometimes set up a bit of a divide if the PNG boys stick to themselves," he said.

"But Coolangatta has a lot of new players and they are mixing really well with the PNG boys."

"Good luck to the PNG lads, there's a very strong contingent now of PNG Aust Footballers in Australia ... and they aren't just making up the numbers. Nor are the international rookies/scholarships token gestures.

There are many very capable young players that lends hope that within perhaps just 10 years there could be a pretty competitive PNG national rep team including past, present and future AFL stars," said Michael C.

Madang Surfing Club receives surf boards

2010-04-04T16:09:00.000+10:00

By JOE IVAHARIA

A SURFING club based in Madang recently received five surfing boards from a group of Japanese surfing tourists.

The Japanese tourists, numbering 10 with some of them professional surfers, were in the country trying out waves in the Madang province as guests of the PNG Tourism Authority.

The lucky recipient was little known Tuburia Surf Club, a new club established some 18 months ago by National and Supreme Court Judge, Justice Nicolas Kirriwom, who also is the club patron.

President of the Surfing Association of PNG (SAPNG), Andrew Abel (Front row seated above, second from left) in a press conference held last Saturday thanked the Japanese tourists for their kind donation, adding that the boards will be put to good use by members of the Tuburia Club.

The president said that this was one way of spreading and promoting the sport of surfing by distributing what little resources SAPNG could get hold off to the coastal provinces.

He said there would be more visits organised by SAPNG between Japan and PNG to foster cultural and sporting exchanges and give opportunities to young athletes to develop in the sport.

The tourists spent a week trying out the waves in the Ulingan Bay and were very impressed with the tranquility and hospitality of the local people.

Meanwhile, the SAPNG will be conducting a training program for surf judges in May this year and will target surf judges around the country and may have the presence of few from abroad as well.

On their departure from PNG, the tourists were given gifts in the form of 'a surfing warrior' as reminder of their visit to Madang and PNG.

Port Moresby launches super '6' cricket challenge

2010-04-04T16:02:00.000+10:00

LEFT - CPNG general manager Bill Leane thanking Badili Hardware Ltd Resident Director Sri after at the launching of the Badili Hardware POMCA Super 6's in Port Moresby on Tues.

PORT Moresby Cricket clubs will now get the chance to boost their financial status with K2000 and win new cricket equipment for their clubs - thanks to Badili Hardware and Cricket PNG (CPNG).

CPNG have joined forces with Badili Hardware to stage a fast and furious super six cricket challenge.
The two day event which will be known as the Badili Hardware POMCA Super 6's will get to see who which club will be crowned the POMCA club champion.

The Badili Hardware POMCA Super 6's will be played over weekends from April 11 and 18 and April 25 and May 2.

At the officially launching on Tues, Badili Hardware Ltd Resident Director Sri said that they were very proud to be associated with CPNG and POMCA in supporting the two day cricket challenge.

CPNG general manager Bill Leane who was present to launch the Super 6's challenge together with Sri thanked Badili Hardware for their tremendous sponsorship and their continued support towards cricket.

To win each club must field a team in every grade or their points will be effected and chance to win the prize money and equipment will be reduced.

Clubs nominate a squad of 10 players only to play 6 a side, 8 overs per team, innings must be completed in 27 minutes.

All matches will be played on Colts (2), Rules (1) and Rules (2) with U/16, U/19 and A reserve grade teams playing on the first and second weekend (Sunday April 11 & 18), (U/16 & U/19 players are also eligible for B grade and A grade teams only).

And B Grade, Women and A Grade (Sunday April 25 & May 2) playing in the last two weekends.
Each event has a Badiili Hardware Super 6's trophy for winner and runner-up.

There is K2000 and a Kit of Cricket Equipment for the club who Wins over-all on points...
It's winner take all!

There are no individual awards because it is a club competition.

Equipment prize is: (6 sets of pads (3 men's and 3 juniors/women's ), 2 wkt keeping pads, 4 Bats, 8 pr batting gloves, 2 wkt keeping gloves, 12 practise balls)

Each competition: 5 points to Winner, 4 points to runner-up, 3 points to 3rd, 2 points to 4th and 1 point to each other participant.

The competition and teams will be:
AGrade: 1/United, 2/Coasters, 3/Taora, 4/STC, 5/Raukele, 6/Poreporena, 7/Kempa , 8/KCC
A Reserve: 1/Raukele, 2/Coasters, 3/KCC, 4/Poreporena, 5/STC, 6/Kempa, 7/United, 8/Taora
B Grade: 1/Poreporena, 2/Kempa, 3/Taora, 4/Raukele, 5/United, 6/KCC, 7/Coasters, 8/Curries
U/19: 1/STC, 2/United, 3/Poreporena, 4/Kempa, 5/KCC, 6/Coasters, 7/Raukele, 8/Taora
U/16: 1/Taora, 2/United, 3/KCC, 4/ Raukele, 5/STC, 6/Poreporena, 7/ Coasters, 8/Kempa
Womens:1/KCC, 2/Taora, 3/United, 4/Poreporena, 5/Coasters, 6/Kempa, 7/Raukele, 8/STC.

BSP sponsor Papua New Guinea school cricket

2010-04-04T15:55:00.000+10:00

LEFT - Listen up kids! PNG national cricket players Tanti Heni and Timothy Mou giving out some helpful cricket tips to students of Wardstrip primary school.

Cricket PNG and Bank South Pacific announced this week cricket's biggest ever school focused cricket development program.

As part of a three-year commitment, the program is scheduled to teach cricket to more than 50,000 PNG school children during each year, starting 2010.

This week also BSP bowled in K750,000 for the school kriket program during its launching at the Wardstrip primary school in Port Moresby on Wed.

BSP School Kriket is a new nationwide initiative from Cricket PNG and the programs focus is on developing kids participation in cricket throughout primary and secondary schools in PNG.

The program will be delivered in schools by Cricket PNG Regional Managers and Cricket officers, Australian Government funded AYADs (Australian Youth Ambassadors for Development) in selected areas, CPNG part-time school cricket development officers, teachers and school volunteers. BSP branch staff will also be involved in schools, helping to deliver the program.

The program will run in a school over 12 weeks and it involves five distinct stages.

The sponsorship worth K250 000 annually will run for the next three years and is aimed at reaching PNG children throughout the country with the help of BSP branches nationwide.

The sponsorship will not just cover traditional cricket stronghold areas but reach out to many provinces in the Highlands, Momase, Southern and New Guinea Islands.

This year BSP School Kriket will cover more than 50 schools in NCD and 20 schools in 12 other provinces.

BSP chief executive officer Ian Clyne commended Cricket PNG for their professionalism and enthusiasm in terms of its new cricket development program.

"It is hoped that more young talents especially from the non-traditional cricket areas will soon be discovered and will lead to PNG becoming a regional powerhouse in cricket within the next five to 10 years," Clyne said.

"Not only is BSP's support significantly lucrative but it is the complete organisational commitment that makes this program special," confirmed CPNG General Manager, Bill Leane.

"The culture of BSP as an organisation is a perfect fit with cricket as it is all about supporting the community and here is a major example of that focus and culture at work and delivering real benefits to PNG's schools and children," Leane said.

"That cricket is excited to actually be able to deliver a meaningful national development program for boys and girls that does build self esteem, and promotes awareness of the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.

"As a non 'Gladitorial' sport cricket can give young athletes the opportunity to compete without the inherent issues of contact sports.

"Cricket is FUN and safe."

Schools wanting more information on the program should contact Gayan Loku (National Development Manager) on 3233254 or 76614980 or by email to cricketpng@y7mail.com.

Mt Hagen softball hosts Easter Cup Challenge

2010-04-04T15:48:00.000+10:00

Mt Hagen Softball Association will be staging its own Easter Cup challenge, thanks to a cool K10,000 sponsorship from the National Gaming Control Board (NGCB).

The naming rights will also continue through to the remaining of the season at the end of this month.

The association could not take part in this year's national softball championships in Kokopo because they started their season late and there was no diamonds to play their matches on which would give them enough time to select a strong team.

Funds sponsored by NGCB will be used for running the competition and also for prizes which will be given out during the Easter challenge with K3000 up for grabs.

"Our association has a lot of untapped young talent who did not get the chance to play in the last three national championships as well as our own season," said Organising Committee Chairman Sebastian Tirupia.

"But with this sponsor and the availability of playing field, all players and officials are delighted and our competition will be in for a tough 2010-2011 season," said Tirupia

Teams that will be taking part in the PNG Gaming Board Easter Cup Challenge will be NGI, Unicats, Brown Eagles, and Water Board in the men's division and NGI Unicats, Jets and NGI 2 in the women's division.
The matches will be played at the Holy Trinity Teachers College.

Tirupia thanked NGCB CEO Simon Sanagke for the sponsorship, saying the funds will go a long way in reviving the softball competition in Western Highlands province and developing young talented soft ballers as well.

Tirupia commended senior players in Warkuwo Maradi, Vince Tirupia, Simon Poipoi, Max Robert, George Tadap, Ian Noki, John Igal, Narra Kakat and technical officers Patonga Makis, Mika Rek and all teams taking part for their tireless efforts in continuing to push for the competition to played in the province.

"Special mention to Danny Wyatt and Basil Kalang for their efforts and securing the sponsor from NGCB and also thanks to the principal of Holy Trinity Teachers College for allowing softball to be played on the campus," said Tirupia.

PNG Under 15 soccer team gets assistance

2010-04-04T15:43:00.000+10:00

By WENDY KATUSELE

THE Papua New Guinea Under 15 soccer women's team to the regional World Cup qualifiers in Auckland, New Zealand next month left on Thurs for a training camp in Gold Coast, Australia before heading to the land of the long white clouds.

While the team is not expecting results at the Oceania Football Confederation Under 17 world cup qualifier, it anticipates exposure and international experience before the Commonwealth Youth Games in Singapore in August.

The Under 15 team has been invited to participate at the inaugural event, which is set to witness the biggest turn out of youths from around the Commonwealth countries.

Telecommunication Company Telikom PNG joined loyal soccer followers with showering the girls with their promotional items that included caps, polo shirts, water bottles, bags and complimentary A$5 international calling cards, one of the new products launched early this year.

In a brief ceremony on Tues at Telikom Rumana, team leader public relations Martha Rupa on behalf of the telecommunication company congratulated the girls for making the team adding Telikom was proud to help soccer and its backing of the sport continues with National Soccer League and smaller associations within the Papua New Guinea Football Association.

"On behalf of the Telikom board and staff we wish you all the best in the OFC qualifier," Rupa said.
The Under 17 world cup qualifier will held from May 12-17 with PNG pitted against an improved Tonga on the opening day.

PNG takes on host New Zealand, which has with four players who are current members of the senior New Zealand team.

The final match will be against neighboring Solomon Islands on the May 16.
PNGFA's development officer, Taku Niebo in thanking Telikom, said this will be the first ever national junior women's team to participate in the qualifier.

Niebo said PNG has been the queens in the South Pacific for the last three years under its development program; some of these players will go onto the senior team.

Telikom PR team leader Martha Rupa handing over the promotional items from Telikom to PNGFA technical officer, Taku Niebo who received the items on behalf of the PNG U15 Soccer team as two players look on. Picture by JOE IVAHARIA

Yambi claims Lamana pools title

2010-04-04T15:35:00.000+10:00

By JOE IVAHARIA

KELLY Yambi has added another memento to his already growing trophy cabinet after claiming the Lamana Singles Pool champion's title on Mon this week.

Yambi played cool and calm to thwart all opposition in his way to claiming victory. He had no trouble in the semi final, disposing of opponent Karo Mabua three frames to nil before giving the same dose to Manu Keve in the grand final.

Earlier on Keve had to rely on his media pool experience to outclass Charlie Lainda in the other semi final.
Charlie trailed by two frames behind Manu Keve and had the chance to square up by winning the third frame.

All he had to do was pot the black ball into the middle pocket with Manu still having three balls left.
Unfortunately things did not go Charlie's way. He miscued and hit the cushion. From ensuring play, Manu went on a sinking spree to wrap up the game and the match 3-0 for a well-earned victory heading into the grand final.

While in the other semifinal, the match did not reach any heights as predicted. Karo Mabua was off target all night and performed well below expectations. He lost the match to Kelly Yambi in a clean sweep, 0-3.
The grand final was all than set as Manu Keve, being the underdog, took on the more experienced guy Yambi.

As predicted, it was Yambi's experience that mattered most at the end to wrap up the singles title with a 3-1 victory.

Yambi earned himself K2,000 as prize money while Keve settled with the runners-up tag and K1500 for his efforts.

The minor placing went to Mabua (third) and Lainda (fourth) with both earning themselves K750 in pocket money. According to the organizers, a total of K5,000 was handed out in prize money.

Meanwhile, the doubles competition is set to kick off in two weeks. Registration is K40 per player and forms are now available from Sue Asiba at Lamana Hotel reception.

Masters, veterans invited for touch challenge

2010-04-04T15:25:00.000+10:00

By JOE IVAHARIA

AS part of promoting a healthy and happy work place concept, Touch Football PNG is conducting and managing a competition targeting workers over the age of 40 years for men and 30 years for women.

In a statement released recently, TFPNG President Joe Yore advised that to be eligible to play you must fit this bill, but eligibility also extends further. Even if you are under age but weigh the scales over 80 kilograms, you are qualified to play.

The challenge starts on Wed, April 7 from 5.30pm at the Port Moresby Rugby League (PRL) or Lloyd Robson oval.

Yore stated that the event is special too in that it is a eight-team competition with the over 40 players and mixed players (men+40 and women+30) and targets accountants, lawyers, insurers, public servants, miners, bankers, aviation and others.

He said each team will select a uniform colour like red, black, gold, white, blue, green, black or pink as their official colours at the time of affiliation. The green colour has been allocated to the public sector team who secured their spot on Thurs.

The public sector team is led by healthy lifestyle promoter and MP Jamie Maxtone-Graham. Others in the insurance and aviation industries have shown interest. The Jamie Maxtone-Graham team will pay its K2,500 affiliation fee and has ordered its green colour uniforms from Woo Textiles Company.

Meanwhile, at the representative front, the over 40 men & mixed 40 men+30women can pick themselves to attend all masters tournaments both local and international because of the goals and aspirations of this level of competition, Yore said.

He said a major sponsor is being sought for the naming rights to the competition which will be named after the sponsor.

Four minor sponsors are also being sought for the team naming rights as well as other benefits on offer by TFPNG.

Brian Bell and Co is the first such minor sponsor and has sponsored balls, referees whistles, a stop watch and field cone markers valued at K1,500 last week. The challenge thanked Wayne Satchell of Brian Bell Sports for the sponsorship,

The rules of the game for this competition has a lot of fun elements in it where the jersey numbers represent the age of a player, women players touch downs are worth three points, male players over 50 years touch downs are also worth three points, one forward pass is allowed (out of seven touches) but must be over five meters forward.

Yore said this being a 7s touch competition, the winner is the team with the highest points at the end of the round robin games.

The competition starts on April 7 and TFPNG needs confirmation of teams.

The seasons draw and game for the 8 teams +40 and mixed competition is already prepared and on hand for distribution.

Further information can be obtained from:Joe Yore- President on phone 325 7293 or email- jyore@pngwater.com.pg. or Sesevi Lae- Executive Director on phone 326 2179 or 71029400 or email- seslae@daltron.com.pg.

Start junior competitions, says TFPNG

2010-04-04T15:22:00.000+10:00

By JOE IVAHARIA

TOUCH Football PNG (TFPNG) as is urging all its current 15 affiliated members to start a junior competition in their locations as part of its affiliation requirements to TFPNG.

The junior development is vital to the future growth and development of the code and actions taken this season will lay the fruits of harvest come April 2015 and beyond, TFPNG President Joe Yore said in a recent statement.

The junior divisional teams includes the under 14, 16 & 18, for both boys and girls.

President Yore said TFPNG is banking on the support of its affiliates to assist by working in partnership with the community and key stakeholders like the IEA & Primary based school systems to run with school based curriculum for the Junior Competition to kick start for season 2010.

In NCD TFPNG has communicated with selected IEA & Community based schools to start a six school competition, expected to start on April 1, 2010. This competition has now been deferred to April 22, 2010 due to the slow responses by the two school systems, Yore said.

He said that in spite of that, it is pleasing to note that the Kokoboro IEA & Ward strip PE Teachers, Ismael Nombe and Ms Sapulai, have been the only two schools that are ready to go while Kinsley Ruguna from the Paradise high school is also ready to start but needs logistical support from the school administration.

Niugini Table Birds Ltd was the first sponsor that came forward with 20 touch football balls in support of the junior competition. NGTB did this on their own accord only after looking at the TFPNG Annual Sports calendar.

More junior sponsors are required for T shirts, caps as uniforms, tents, water or soft drinks for players at the break and a trophy (Junior Challenge Cup) sponsor.

The benefits of being a junior team sponsor are great and TFPNG is inviting possible sponsors to come forward at their own initiative just like Niugini Table Birds, Yore added.

Further information on the above can be obtained from:-
Joe Yore- President on telephone 325 7293 or email- jyore@pngwater.com.pg.
Sesevi Lae- Executive Director on telephone 326 2179 or 71029400 or email- seslae@daltron.com.pg.

Soccer tourney held in south coast Manus

2010-04-04T15:18:00.000+10:00

MWANUS E Ndras Development Forum (MENDF), an association of six chieftaincy areas on the islands and coast on the south coast of Manus hosted a get together (Kamesos) to discuss aspects of social, economic, environmental and leadership issues on development.

Chairperson of the forum Kisokau Pochapon said a highlight of the gathering has been a soccer tournament under the name MWanus E Ndras Kamesos Pwachole (MENKP). It is the forum's sporting activity under the forum's programs.

The meetings and the soccer tournament are being held at Pere Village on the coast and they started March 29 and will end on April 5. 31 teams comprising 20 men's and 11 women's are taking part.

During the tournament, MENKP was expected to also discuss its intention to register and participate in the National Soccer League in the country.

The tournament program is being spearheaded by coordinator Manuai Matawai and programme director Ben Tapas.

In addressing the forum's developmental issues, Pochapon said the soccer tournament for its young men and women will enhance unity, cooperation and teamwork in sports and all affairs of life.

He said socially it would redirect these young people from unwanted and undesirable activities.
Also an individual participant who has the aptitude to perform well and later on participate in the National Soccer League is on the way to achieving social, economic and leadership benefits for himself/herself, for the family, province and country.

Yere expected in England this week

2010-02-08T11:52:00.000+10:00

By WATSON GABANA

PAPUA New Guinea Kumul Menzie Yere will finally leave for England this week to team up with his English club.

Speaking from England, Sheffield Eagles general manager Brandon Lindsay assured Yere's Papua New Guinean friends and supporters that the champion fullback-cum centre has been given enough time to sort out personal issues before travelling to Great Britain.

"Yere has issues to sort out at home. We are aware of that," Brandon said from England.
He confirmed that his (Yere) travel documents including airline tickets were sorted out with him and they (Eagles) hope to see him anytime this week.

Brandon said that Yere played well in the Pacific Cup and needed time to recover before he is expected on the field again for the Eagles.

"We understand that Yere was the standout payer in the recent Pacific Cup. He deserves to rest...but we hope he is training well in Port Moresby," Brandon said.

The general manager said the Eagles played only one game since the pre-season kicked off two weeks ago. The other game has been cancelled and this week would be their third.

"We played only one game. One game has been cancelled. Yere is expected to join us for the 3rd," the general manager said.

Brandon said that the proper season for the English 1st division will start on March 14.
"We want to win the competition this year so the Eagles can play in the Super League next season," Brandon said.

Yere was supposed to leave last Friday but did not due to seat limitations.
He tried getting to Brisbane since last month but was not given a seat. All seats were fully booked and that delayed his departure to join the English club.

Yere relayed the struggles and troubles he went through to his manager in England and as a result, he was given enough time to sort out those issues.

"We understand Yere's struggles and hope to see him this week," Brandon confirmed.

Yere still in PNG

2010-01-23T09:14:00.003+10:00

Kumul Menzie Yere in action during the PNG Residents vs PNG Internationals match held at Kagamuga Oval in Mt Hagen last Oct. Yere is yet to join his English club. File picture by JOE IVAHARIA

Move creates dent on future of PNG players on contract

KUMUL Menzie Yere is yet to join his English club Sheffield Eagles Rugby Football Club, a move that has fueled questions over his unavailability.

This has also created a dent on the future of Papua New Guinea players on contract to English clubs.
Yere, who was supposed to fly to England late last year for his second year stint with the English club, is understood to be in Port Moresby.

Attempts by The Sunday Chronicle to get comments from Yere were unsuccessful. According to a reliable source, Yere had not board the plane to England and his English club officials are in limbo over when he turns up for training as the club has began preparations for the coming season.

His former Agmark Guria coach Michael Marum when contacted yesterday said he had not heard from Yere after he left over the Christmas eve.

"Yere left us and went to Port Moresby but I have lost contact with him as I did try calling his (Yere) phone but is switched off," the former Gurias coach Michael Marum said

Everyone involved in Yere's move to England are confused what had made him (Yere) to stay back in the country when he supposed to have gone back to England. Questions remain unsolved and it's tragic that Menzie has done that.

An email sent to this paper by Sheffield Club executive officer, Mark Aston, said: "It's tragic that Menzie is messing me and the club around as I thought we were indeed good friends. He had a massive impact on our club last year becoming one of the fans favorites and also a big hit with the sponsors."

The Simbu man was caught launching the Kumul Access International card at the Jackson's International terminal with other two Kumul players, Michael Mark and Charlie Wabo early this month but to date, he has been out of reach also by this paper.

Mark and Wabo left the next morning while Yere did not board the plane.
Menzie was also nominated for the players' player of the year (nominated by his peer) in the competition and his silence will now tarnish the good relationship with those who had made ways for PNG to move over to have a go in their rugby league career.

"Honest, I can't believe this. How na Menzie wokim olsem ya. Kain olsem em bai bagarapim olgeta wei blong ol mangi bai go na pilai long hap. (Honest, I cannot believe this. How did Menzie do this as it will now spoil the chances of other our local rugby league players to go and play there)," a diehard rugby league fan who did not want to be named said.

Sheffield Eagles RLFC chief executive Mark Aston said the move could tarnish the reputation of the PNG players that are playing in England now.

"I hope we can resolve the Menzie issue as soon as possible as we will be starting to play next week in our pre-season cup competition," the concerned club chief executive in his email.

"I also do not want Menzie to tarnish the reputation that the PNG players have in this country as I personally gave recommendation to a close friend of mine Daryl Powell at Featherstone that the players from PNG are not only great players and they are also fantastic to have around the club.

"I personally think that he (Menzie) might be a bit embarrassed and won't want to talk to me and if that is the case he can contact Chris Noble who is one of our directors at the club.

Menzie is so close to him and if it's about not having enough money to get some more flights it can be sorted."
Other players currently in England are Jessie Joe Parker, Larsen Marabe, Michael Mark, Charlie Wabo and Trevor Exton.

Menzie has not contacted his managers back in England and has to do so before next week.

A daunting task for PNG Garamuts to improve ranking

2010-01-23T09:03:00.000+10:00

THE PNG Under 19 Garamuts ranked 13th will need a strong will power to take them to the plate championships final when they face Afghanistan ranked 12th in the plate quarter final at Napier today.

The last time both teams met was at the U19 world cup qualifiers in Toronto, Canada where Afghanistan beat PNG by six wickets.

It will be the battle to improve their rankings and a win would see the Garamuts return to Palmerston for a semi final against an unknown opponent on Tuesday.

At the last U19 world cup in Malaysia, PNG went as far as the plate semi final after a historic seven wicket win over Bermuda in Johor Baru.

Tony Ura was named man of the match for his 70 not out to lead the Garamuts to win and break a U19 world cup hoodoo that has hunted the previous U19 teams in the last three world cups.

But at the plate semi final, PNG lost to West Indies by six wickets and the team from the Caribbean Islands went on to defeat Namibia in the plate championships.

It's a similar scenario like the one in 2008 when the Garamuts lost all its pool matches and went straight to the plate finals.

Now current captain Jason Kila, who was part of that side two years, has a big task to take his boys though to the next stage.

Kila along with Heni Siaka, Tony Ura, Charles Amini junior, Jonathan Diho and John Boge Reva have tasted victory at the world cup level and that winning experience will be vital against Afghanistan who will no doubt be going in as favourites in the battle of the associate nations.

This week was a very disappointing one indeed for the Garamuts losing their three pool D matches to Bangladesh by 5 wickets, Pakistan by 6 wickets and West Indies by 5 wickets.

If the Garamuts are to upset the boys from the Middle East their batting needs to be 100% perfect.
Probably their match against West Indies on Tuesday saw a greatly improved performance especially in both batting and bowling.

Youngster Sese Bau who plays senior cricket for United A grade side made his first ever half century off 55 balls while lanky fast bowler Raymond Haoda junior tore the West Indies top order apart with three wickets for 37 runs.

If PNG can carry that fighting spirit into the match with Afghanistan, there is no reason why the Garamuts cannot win and go on to play in the semi final. The match will be played at Nelson Park, Napier at 10:30am (NZ local).

Five lucky winners receive scholarships

2010-01-23T08:50:00.000+10:00

By WENDY KATUSELE

FIVE lucky people have won scholarships with the Institute of Business Studies in Port Moresby following a partnership with the tertiary institution and the Papua New Guinea Sports Federation.

The five winners were drawn on Thurs by Deputy Director of IBS Sadiq Ali, IBS Team Leader Innovation & Development Vani Nades, PNGSF's executive Monalisa Leka and PNGSF's deputy secretary general Auvitta Rapilla.

The five winners were drawn from last year's Trukai Fun Run entry forms received from participants from 13 centres; Goroka, Kavieng, Kimbe, Kokopo, Lae, Lihir, Madang, Pogera, Port Moresby, Rabaul, Wewak, Tabubil and Mt Hagen.

The winners were Fred Francis of Southern Highlands Province, Vavine Iamo of Port Moresby, Evodia Sitaing Port Moresby, Loddy Bertha of Port Moresby and McKenzie Gabebe of Alotau.

The five will choose to undertake studies in Certificate in Accounting and Certificate in Computing.
The scholarship package is worth K3, 000 for each student totaling to IBS support of K15, 000.

Prior to the drawing of winners PNG Sports Federation & Olympic Committee Executive Mona-Lisa Leka said that IBS had generously made available two places for a Certificate of Accounting and another three places for a Certificate in Computing.

She said that IBS has been working in partnership with PNG Sports Federation & Olympic Committee (PNGSFOC) and Trukai, by awarding these scholarships for the past nine years.

These scholarships have enabled lucky winners to get an educational qualification.
Ms Leka said that PNGSFOC in partnership with IBS and Trukai is happy to support education through sport and occasions like this present an opportunity for us to help make a difference and provide, through IBS an education for five lucky people.

Deputy Director of Institute of Business Studies Sadiq Ali said IBS was proud to be associated with sports and IBS believes in supporting school leavers and helping them achieve their dreams and go on to pursue a career of their choice.

"We have found that through partnership with the PNGSFOC, we have been able to offer an opportunity of an education through these draws. In this partnership of education and sport it is our firm belief that we can model and build good citizens of Papua New Guinea," Ali said.

The draw was held this month to coincide with the opening of the academic year and Deputy Secretary General of the PNGSFOC, Rapilla encouraged people from all participating centres of this year's Olympic Day Run to send in the entries to go into the running to win scholarships from IBS.

Above...IBS Team Leader Innovation & Development Vani Nades drawing out a lucky winner as PNGSF's executive Monalisa Leka (right) and IBS Deputy Director Sadiq Ali look on. Picture by JOE IVAHARIA.

Leaders 09ers aim to continue winning streak

2010-01-23T08:34:00.000+10:00

By WENDY KATUSELE

COMPETITION leaders 09ers aim to continue their unbeaten record when they take on a reformed Kabiu side in Madang softball today at the Yabong Park.

While the leaders had an upper hand over Kabiu in their last encounter, Kabiu are expected to put up fight against a more fancied and experienced pack.

Kabiu will be led by internationals pitcher Meli Taragau and shortstop custodian Briton Zale to grab another competition points.

Taragau will be guided by catcher Silas Darius who have a formidable combination to cause menace for the Kabiu batters led by experienced Warren Kakat, Chris Karl, Willie Upaupa, David Turnamur and Yama Upaupa.

Team manager Isimel Tamdodo said Kabiu will relying heavily on the expertise of hurler Taragau who has guided the team numerous premierships and no doubt his services will be depended on to continue his top form.

"We are confident of another easy win," Tamdodo said.
He said his players have been training well and again looking for another sucessful season.

The merge of Kabiu with defunct team Colts should bolster its mission for a premiership material this season despite a rather mixed start.

With all players aiming for a spot in the representative side to the national softball championships in Kokopo during the Easter weekend, the stage is for an exciting encounter.

O9ers infield department will be manned by Desmond Zale on first base, Kelly Upaupa on second, David Geladia on third and Briton Zale to make sure no balls go past while outfielders Russel Bola, regular representative player Taki Zale and Henry Guinness take charge of the outfield.

The main game should see Kabiu's hurler Willie Upaupa on top of things to restrict the 09ers batting prowess with the help of no nonsense catcher and international Chris Karl.

Upaupa formerly of Colts has taken over the responsibility after the departure of Kabiu's regular pitcher Esau Vinarang.

Upaupa together with David Wardspika, Yama Upaupa and Mark Waiki are former Colts players who have teamed up with Kabiu.

In the other match, second placed KBB Reds lock horns with third placed Newtown Tigers while in the womens tussle KBB Reds take on 09ers and Newtown Tigers battle it out with BSP.

Meanwhile, the Madang association is expected to name its teams for the coming national titles after today's matches.

Raukele faces stiff challenge

2010-01-23T08:26:00.001+10:00

CHILLI Sounds Raukele will face the battle to stay alive in the Port Moresby A grade top four when they face Badili Hardware STC in today’s round nine matches at Amini Park.

The Steamies embarrassingly gave away easy points to Coasters last round on forfeit and will be looking to make up for that when they face the Hula men.

Raukele’s top order batsmen will need to perform above expectations particularly Jamie Iga, Ian Api and Alu brothers Chris and Tony.

Api was able to make 13 runs when batting at number two but had trouble facing United’s fast bowlers Ao Mea and Kabua Vagi with the latter destroying Raukele with a five wicket haul.

The other three batsmen also struggled and got out cheaply with Iga making only five runs, Chris four runs and Tony three runs.

All rounder Arina Lahari who was brought in to bat at number three performed well scoring a quick fire 13 runs before falling victim to one of Vagi’s deliveries.

Only Gimapau Keimelo who is currently in good form hitting a half century against Kempa in round seven to lead his side to a 30 run victory plus 37 runs last Sunday against United where Raukele lost by 31 runs.

Junnius Ani was also the other top scorer with 17 runs but the young man will need to be patient against the Steamies if he wants to make a big score today.

But Raukele must not dwell on their past and must look towards formulating a game plan to stop STC from winning.

Both teams are in the top four with STC in third place and Raukele behind them with the net run rate separating the two teams.

STC will rely on their big hitters Peter Moide and skipper Mahuta Kivung to lead their attack and lay a strong foundation for victory.

In the other Sunday match at Colts Ground Kempa face Coasters with the Api Leka coached side determined to record a win after two back to back loses recently in round 7 and 8.

Round 8 results, Coasters defeated STC on forfeit, BNG Poreporena (5/91) thrashed Kempa (10/87), PMMI Taora (8/168) walked over KCC (10/1160) and Stop and Shop United (4/165) outclassed Raukele (10/134).

The point’s ladder still has United (52.19) leading followed by Poreporena (48.01), STC (41.54) and Raukele (41.09) who make up the top four.

The bottom four teams are Taora (37.75), Coasters (29.12), KCC (27.25) and Kempa (21.47).

PNGFA extends invitation to youths

2010-01-23T08:21:00.000+10:00

THE Papua New Guinea Football Association is inviting youths between the ages of fifteen and twenty five to take part in the first-ever Pacific Youth and Sports Conference in Manukau, New Zealand next month.
The conference will be held from March 15-20. Event coordinator Rex Parua said there is a criteria that would be followed to choose the successful youths to attend the conference.

The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) in partnership with FIFA, Manukau City Council, the Secretariat of the Pacific community, the Australian Government, Football Federation of Australia, the Human Rights Commission and the Oceania National Olympic Committee (ONOC) is currently preparing for the conference.

The event was recently endorsed by the Oceania National Olympic Committee (ONOC).
Parua said the aim of the event is to bring together more than 1,000 participants from youth and sporting groups from around the Pacific region to exchange ideas and discuss major youth issues on health, education, citizenship and social integration during a weeklong program.

Each country will further hold discussions to develop a concrete action plan that will use sports as a medium to address youth issues at the conclusion of the meeting.

The aim of the conference is to reinforce sustainable youth development in the Pacific through sports and boost joint work in the field of idea, logical and cultural diversity by exchange of ideas, experiences and projects on the conference's four central themes.

Health, Education and training, Citizenship and good governance, Social integration and anti discrimination are among issues to be discussed.

Paru further said this is an excellent opportunity for young leaders to take an active role in their respective countries.

The meet is recognized by the national government, however it is not a government-funded event and the financial aspects of the event will be for those interested to fulfill.

Parua said for organizations and individuals who were interest to participate, it would cost K9, 000 per person and would go towards travel expenses, accommodation, transportation and meals.

PNG Kickboxing releases 2010 calendar

2010-01-23T08:17:00.000+10:00

THE Papua New Guinea kickboxing association (PNGKBA) has six international events to prepare its fighters- a daunting financial task to meet its aspiration.

And four national events endorsed in its 2010 calendar.

President of the PNGKBA Stanley 'The Head Hunter' Nandex when releasing the calendar aims to have fighters prepare early and seek funding for the respective events endorsed.

The first tournament for this year has been scheduled on March 26-28 in Simbu where fighters from Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United State of America and our very own local professional fighters.

The showdown in Simbu at the Dickson Oval is billed as Mount Wilhelm Track cup feathering PNG's pound for pound taking on the world's best fighters as a lead up towards international fights in both the amateur and professional level.

The tournament in Simbu has been sponsored by Member for Kundiawa - Gembolg Joe Mek Teine with K36, 000 winning the naming rights.

The Mt Wilhelm Track cup is set to be a big show down in the township of Kundiawa
Despite the Governor coming good, the organizers need K120, 000 to stage the tournament.

Already PNGKBA has raised a total of K56, 000 but with just two months to go before the tournament, calls are being made for financial backing from various business houses.

Other tournaments in the 2010 calendar includes five international fights in Australia and four local tournament which will be held in Simbu, Wewak, Kimbe and Mendi.

Vice president of the PNGKB Napoleon Rema said the event in Kundiawa will be a huge boost for he fighters to be qualified for international ranking.

" The highlights of this event is Australia's Tim Drury taking our PNG's very own Jiwaka style mangi Alfred Samuel in the welter weight title (68kg) which has been put off to June this year due to Alfred's ranking," Rema said.

Rema said the WKA office in Melbourne has confirmed that some of the fighters need to qualify before fighting for a title and Alfred was one of the many.

Rising star, Jeffery 'The Iron' Daka will take this fight in Simbu as an opportunity to qualify for a title fight in the future.

Jeffery has caught the attention of the PNGKBA selectors after beating his opponent in one of the under card bout in Port Moresby in 2008.

Meanwhile Team PNG will be camping out at the National Sports Institute in Goroka in March.

Touch eyes next year's world cup

2010-01-23T08:08:00.000+10:00

Touch Football PNG release calendar

THE World Cup in Scotland next year is the major draw card targeted by the Touch Football PNG (TFPNG) as outlined in its 2010 calendar.

The touch body while releasing its calendar has set its sights on this year's provincial championships in Kokopo - the event that is propelled to bring out its best players for the World Cup.

Papua New Guinea has nominated to send four teams World Series; a Mens Open, Womens Open, Senior Mens and Senior Mixed Teams.

Two top performing referees will also be nominated to officiate during the World Cup.
TFPNG is expected to raise over K500, 000 to send four teams with players and officials to pay a levy fee of K2, 000 each.

The provincial tournament will be hosted by the East New Britain Touch Association with the event slated for July 11-13 anticipating participation from affiliates around the country who have been members to TFPNG for the last two years.

TFPNG president Joe Yore, while releasing its 2010 calendar said the championships will only be for affiliates who have been members to TFPNG over the last two years but those wishing to take part will be required to pay K1, 000 being for the two years affiliation fees.

"These affiliates will be eligible and qualified to participate at the provincial championships," Yore said.
"Players and officials to be traveling to Scotland for the 2011 World cup will be selected from the Provincial Championship," Yore further said.

"Each team will have 14 players totally a contingent of 64 participants with the estimated cost at around K500, 000.00, with planned fund raising to start in 2010," Yore added.

Yore said the two key qualities the players for 2011 World Cup must possess are agility and speed and players who can score or assist in scoring anywhere on the field.

Already players identification program started last year and will continue during the affiliate's 2010 competition and the Kokopo Provincial championships.

For team management, coaches must be level three and two holders with a minimum of five years coaching experience.

While managers must have proven record of effective and discipline management of players and there will be one male and one female manager per team.

Meanwhile TFPNG will also conduct its annual general meeting during the Kokopo Championships to appoint its Executive and Board members for the next three years.

For more information call the president on (675) 325 7293 or executive director Sesevi Lae on (675) 326 2179 or (675) 71029400.

Orange Men rescues basketball team

2010-01-23T07:59:00.001+10:00

AFTER a two hours flight on board Air Niugini's Dash 8, the PNG men's development team "The Telikom Papuan Blacks" arrived safely at Cairns, Australia for the Further North Queensland All Stars Basketball tournament.

The team (top right) was rescued by Telikom PNG under its Kumul Access International Card with K15, 000 and with our very own local mobile company bemobile coming on board with K5000 to rescue the team cover its food, meals, accommodation and transport. This did well but then a ORANGE MEN came to the rescue with a K600 donation when the team landed in Cairns..
The team plays its last match today at the Bendingo Bank Basketball Centre. Seen in this picture is bemobile representative Lawrence Lahari who is also part of the team handing over the cheque to team manager Nick Daroa in Cairns on Friday.

The team will be arriving back in the country on Tuesday.

NSL complete round one

2010-01-23T07:50:00.000+10:00

THE Telikom Cup National Soccer League (NSL) games yesterday marked the end of round one matches with competition pacesetter CMSS Tigers ahead with 15 points.

The Tigers played seven matches with four wins while three were drawn and have yet to lose a match.
The South Korean-back franchise came from behind on two occasions to force a draw against Eastern Star (2-2) and University InterFC (1-1) while they led Hekari 1-0 before surrendering the lead for a 1-1 draw.

Hekari who are definite grand finalist come final day won four games, drew 1 and lost one which puts them on second spot with 13 points.

The reigning premier's only loss came after they went down to a fired-up University InterFC 1-0 in round four.

Gigira Laitepo Morobe FC sits on third spot with 12 points. They won four and lost two and should stir up the competition heading into the second round.

Early competition leaders Gelle Hills slided down to fourth spot with three wins, 1 draw and two loses. The Wesley Waiwai-coached team is on 10 points just in front of fast improver Niugini Builders Tukoko University Lae.

The Unitech-based team is on 7 points and closely followed by University InterFC on 6 while Eastern Stars are on 5 points.

The two tailenders are Besta PNG United on 2 points while Madang Niupetro Fox brings up the rear with 1 point. The Madang-based team, the Fox's only point came from the draw against the Besta United 1-1 in Madang last weekend.

PNGFA Competition Manager Edward Tauloi sincerely apologized to all officials and players for publicizing the wrong information on the statistics in The National newspaper early this week.
He said the statistics or points ladder was not up-dated when it was distributed to the media without his confirmation.

Tauloi confirmed that CMSS Tigers are currently leading the table with reigning premiers Hekari United just following them behind their heals.

He noted that University Lae FC is the great improver despite making their debut in this year's semi professional competition.

A big year for AFL

2010-01-23T07:48:00.000+10:00

AFLPNG release 2010 Calendar

AFLPNG has released it 2010 Bemobile Game Development Calendar and what a big year it will be for the code in the country with already the publication of its first fortnightly AFLPNG Nius.

The highlights of the calendar include the AFLPNG Mosquitoes squad touring Cairns tour in March plus the new youth ambassador commencing his role, the U16 Queensland State championships in Brisbane and AFLPNG Coca Cola U16 Binatangs tour, AFL Queensland U14 championships in Sunshine Coast and Coca Cola U14 Binatangs tour in June, the U16 national championships in Australia, West Sydney and the Pacific U18 touring squads in July, the national Under 16s Oceania Cup and juniors Bemobile schools side, commencement of AFL academy PNG and PNG scholarship system nationally, Gold Coast All Stars PNG Tour and the Coca Cola National Championships and Talent Camp in December.

Also on the local front Bank of South Pacific AFLPNG Super Series Game, one will start at the end of this month plus the AFLPNG Bemobile development programs commencing nationwide in February.

In June the Bemobile regional championships will be held in the Highlands (Mt Hagen), Southern (Port Moresby), Islands (Kimbe) and Northern (Lae).

And in September the junior national championships will be held for the U13, U15, U17 and U15 Girls in the four regions plus the senior national championships will also be held on that same month from the 16th to the 19th.

Also AFLPNG has appointed three new board members and they are Pro Vice Chancellor of the University of PNG Dr Kenneth Sumbuk, Treasury Advisor with the PNG Department of Treasury Bede Moore and Assistant Commissioner of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Giossi Labi.

They join the current board members Scott Reid (Minter Ellison Lawyers), Garry Bruest (South Pacific Post), Mel Togolo (Nautilus Minerals) and Jason Mcllvena (Kwila Insurance) and non voting member Andrew Cadzow (AFL Asia Pacific).

Meanwhile, the four team BSP Super Series 2 will kick off next Saturday at the University of PNG AFL Oval.

There will be three weeks of footy with the finals scheduled for February 20.
It is anticipated to be a fiery competition with spots up for grabs for the Cairns and Oceania Cup team.

The Cricketer

2010-01-23T07:43:00.000+10:00

OUR PNG boys who were part of the East Asia side that participated at the Australian Country Cricket Championships which ended last week, performed very well.
Congratulations to Assad Vala who was voted the EAP player of the series and was also selected in the Team of the Championships.

Vala made 103 runs against Northern Territory Country and scored two half centuries to finish the tournament on a high note.

This year's EAP team to the ACCC is relatively new in a sense that senior PNG players like John Ovia and Rarua Dikana have moved on to make way for new exciting talents to stamp their authority in the EAP region.
John and Rarua are now working for Cricket PNG with John as a Development Officer and Rarua as a High Performance Coach.

Debutants like Jeremiah Nigana from Kira Kira Crickt Club are one the new faces that will hopefully dominate the EAP side in the future teams.

PNG has always dominated the EAP team since 2004 and this year was no exception with five PNG Barramundis players in the side including Assad Vala, Loa Nou, Willie Gavera, Jeremiah Nigani and their captain Chris Amini.

This year's Australian Country Cricket Championships was held in Albury in New South Wales with EAP fielding a representative team for the seventh time in the competitions history with Vanuatu's Andrew Mansale the new captain of the EAP side, taking over from Rarua Dikana who has been captain since 2004.

The EAP side was extremely competitive in all matches with a number of stellar performances by individuals, including a century by Assad Vala and a five wicket haul from Loa Nou.

Sustaining losses in the opening two T20 matches, the team's tournament highlight to date is it's historic third round defeat of South Australia in their first one day match.

The 68-run margin is the largest win posted by an EAP team since their participation in the ACCC from 2004.

Chris Amini and Assad Vala both posted half-centuries to have EAP's total of 189, whilst Andrew Mansale and Loa Noa sustained the bowling attack, taking three wickets each. Unfortunately the momentum of the win could not be carried through to the following encounter with New South Wales.

The EAP side went down by eight wickets, with the highlight of the performance being a sixth wicket partnership of 60 between Assad Vala and Jeremiah Nigani.

Round five marked the start of the two-day fixture and EAP first faced Western Australia and went down fighting, posting a ten run loss with a total of 303.

The batting display included a number of strong partnerships across the order, the highest of 59 runs for the fifth wicket.

The following encounter with the ladder leaders, the Northern Territory (NT), in round six also went down to the wire.

NT escaped with a three wicket victory following the posting of a century by Assad Vala and a gallant 76 by Vani Vagi Morea.
In the final 2-day fixture, EAP performed superbly to come away with a 12 run victory over Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Batting first on a good batting strip, EAP were in early trouble at 3 for 24, with Fijian opening pair Baba and Rika both dismissed, and star number 3 Vani Vagi Morea also out.

Captain Mansale steadied the ship with a patient 30, while the immensely talented PNG gun Assad Vala continued to bat with confidence to smash a brilliant 95.

EAP were eventually dismissed for 170, a disappointing total but one that could be defended with quality bowling.

Wickets fell steadily throughout the ACT innings, reduced to 8 for 106 early on Day 2. With the ACT edging closer to the required total and PNG pair Loa Nou and Willie Gavera bowling superbly, the game was tense.

ACT Captain Nicol was dismissed for 82, before the final wicket was taken by Gavera with a spectacular catch down the leg side by stand-in wicket-keeper Vani Vagi Morea.

To end this week we say congratulations also to the PNG U/19 Garamuts who played with pride and passion at the ICC U19 World Cup in New Zealand.

Even though the Garamuts did not make it to the Super League stage the youngsters showed the rest of the cricket world that PNG too is competitive on the international stage.

Your Cricket term for this week: Limited and Unlimited Over games- "Limited Over" games are those where each team is allowed to bat for a designated number of overs. Typically 30, 40, 45 or 50 are set as limit for each teams innings. "Unlimited Over Games" are those where no over restriction is placed on a team's innings.

If you want to share a view send an email to thecricketer@live.com

Until then join me for more Cricket next Sunday...

MADANG Madgauns crowned kings

2010-01-23T07:38:00.000+10:00

MADANG Madgauns were crowned the kings of Trans Highway Sevens challenge held in Lae last weekend.

A surprised package of the tournament, Madgauns put up a weekend of sterling performance to the Flying Fox land.

Madgauns led by former international and veteran Paul PJ Joseph had too much class from their opponents from the Oil Palm land who have been dorminant in the sevens challenge.

Madgaun now prepares for the coming Black Orchid sevens to be staged in Buka which is set to be another thrilling weekend of fast flowing football competition.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football Union has embarked on more exposure on national and international level as a stepping stone in improving the code in the country.

The PNG team is currently preparing for the coming New Zealand Sevens challenge in Wellington next month.

Souths gear up for new season

2010-01-23T07:33:00.000+10:00

Souths rugby league club looking ahead

ONCE a glamour team in the toughest Port Moresby rugby league competition, Souths rugby league club are gearing up for this season with the aim of developing its young players.

President of the club, James Hol said on Friday that the team has lost many of its great players to other teams after club went into court battle but after reimbursing Port Moresby Rugby League’s legal fee of K12,000 as claimed by Hol, the team is back to show other clubs that they mean business this seasoon. With the help of prominent Southern Highlanders, the team was rescued last year and this year, they are dead set to make a come back in the capital competition.

Not only that they did well by finishing in the top five last year but bowed out in the first play off and a much-improved performance is looming this season.

Meanwhile the club executives appointed for this year are James Hol (President), Tom Tiki (Treasurer), Joe Degemba (Secretary and the team will be managed by Ralph Jomoro:
Interested and old players are urge to turn up training at the Unagi oval just at the five mile round about.

Taekwando spreads its wings

2010-01-23T07:29:00.000+10:00

ANOTHER busy year for all other sporting codes in the country, and it's no exception for PNG Taekwondo Union, with more focus directed at spreading the gospel of Taekwondo to other centres in the country.

President of PNG Taekwondo Union Inc. Jamuga Stone, has put in place a schedule to develop the sport of Taekwondo in the Western and Gulf provinces.

Youths in the two provinces are now been encouraged to participate in the training workshops. Daru will be having the first training workshop set for February 22- 26.

The training workshop will be conducted by chief instructor, Jamuga Stone and master Han Wong, a well known instructor from Kuklewon, the headquarters of Taekwondo in South Korea.

The program also coincides with Stone's drug awareness drive aimed at sending the message across to youths in the Western Province, to kick drugs out of PNG.

And he is using the sport to drum the message across to the youths in the Province.
A similar program is also penned out for Gulf Province, which is set to be conducted in March.

The interest, which Stone described, has grown after the sport was included in the 4th PNG Games andan increasing number of youths have indicated their intention to take up the sport.
Jamuga is also appealing for financial support from Western Provincial Government and other business houses for the event.