Abel praises Trans Pacific Cup for allowing men to compete in netball

Sports

Deputy Prime Minister Charles Abel, pictured, has commended the Trans Pacific Cup for allowing men to compete at the highest level in netball.
Abel praised Papua New Guinea Mixed and Men’s Netball Association president Adam Parker for organising the three-match series.
“Traditionally, we view netball as a female sport, so it is good to get more men involved in the sport.”
Abel, who was among the spectators at the Sir John Guise Stadium, said it was good to see the Maleos mix team win last match 44-35.
In the first series, the Maleos lost 41-31.
They lost 41-38 in second match, but redeemed themselves with a 44-35 victory in the third on Saturday.
“That shows that netball has developed in the country and that PNG was competent enough to beat Australia,” Abel said.
“I acknowledge the fact that the Australian government is supporting this event and other sponsors like Ela Motors, The National, Harts Sports, Brian Bell Home Centres, PNG Sports Foundation, and PNG High Performance Centre.
“On top of that, it’s good to see the facilities like this indoor complex put to good use.”