12 teams to participate in Kapari nines tourney

 By GRACE AUKA

UPNG journalism student

THE Kapari Viriolo village in the Abau district, Central province, will come alive starting today when it hosts the annual rugby league nines tournament.

The four-day tournament will end next Monday.

Twelve teams will be participating in the event sponsored by Abau MP Sir Puka, who is from Kapari Viriolo.

The tournament is annual event since 2005.

The event is expected to feature well known players in the rugby union fraternity such as Southern Trader Madi Ora, former and current Pukpuk players Douglas Guise and Roland Namo, who have just returned from a two-year stint in Queensland.

With upcoming players from the village, the tournament is expected to be a lead-up to the upcoming Aroma Coast 7s to be held at the neighbouring village, Lalaura during the Easter weekend. 

The tournament will draw crowds from nearby stations of Kupiano, Gavuone, Lalaura, Tutubu, Moreguina and New Town. 

Teams competing are Reibaone Eagles, Mawai Raiders, Kumo Bullets, Dala Titans, Hanua Knights, Rukuva Rhinos, Kele Cheetahs, BBQuins, Ariku Saints, Kapari Urban, Malaoro and Wairakros.