AFL development programmes still on hold due to Covid-19 restrictions

AFL Papua New Guinea’s (AFLPNG) junior development programmes in Southern are still on hold following the Government’s decision to impose a 14-day lockdown in Port Moresby last week.
Regional manager David Topeni told The National yesterday that lockdown had affected the programme participants with schools in Port Moresby suspended.
“Normally, we’re supposed to be meeting a certain target for the number of schools and participants,” he said.
“But the Covid-19 threat is new to us and we’re still trying to see how we can best function in the ‘new normal’.
“If and when the lockdown, we hope to at least meet some of our targets and get as many people involved.
“Since schools in Port Moresby have been closed, we can’t do much but wait until it is a good time and when we’re cleared to return.
“Another initiative that we are also willing to roll out is our community programmes so while waiting for schools to re-open, we can run our programmes in communities in the city.
“Basically, we will be doing awareness and highlighting issues like gender-based violence, substance abuse and also teach people how they can best look after themselves.”
Topeni said AFLPNG remained committed to developing the sport and would continue to refine their approach to the programmes under the new Covid-19 guidelines.
Meanwhile, last month, AFLPNG hosted trials matches in Hula village, Rigo, Central, and had targeted schools in Port Moresby before the lockdown was imposed.