National schools, women’s rugby championships set

THE Lae Rugby League grounds host the National Schools and Women’s National Rugby League championships starting today.
PNGRFL national development manager Toksy Nema said the championships kicks off with the Under-16 division.
“On Saturday will see the U18s and on Sunday the women’s championships takes place,” Nema said.
He said the teams will play against each other in a round robin format and the team that ends up on top will be crowned the champions.
“All games will be 25 minutes per half with time off for injuries,” Nema said.
He said the women’s encounters on Sunday are sure to be exciting.
“The Women’s Rugby League World Cup will be held later this year in October and PNG is one of six teams in the tournament taking part,” Nema said.
He said a squad would be announced after the championships to start preparations and “every player will be vying for a spot in the training squad.”
Nema said the women’s competitions had been exciting and the results have been close and this weekend would be no exception.
“Highlands were crowned champions last year only by percentage over Southern and we encourage the Lae people to come support the women and watch some exciting rugby league,” Nema said.