Albert wants semi-pro comp

PAPUA New Guinea Orchids captain Elsie Albert has called for the establishment of a women’s semi-professional competition to improve the national team and create more opportunities in the sport.
Speaking to PNG Rugby Football chairman Sandis Tsaka on Fulltime Reserve, Albert said high-level training and an inter-city competition would enhance the fitness of women players across the country.
“Women’s rugby league in PNG needs to be played at the inter-city level just like the Digicel Cup,” Albert said. “We need our women to be given high-level training.
“Playing consistent football each week will boost their fitness levels.
“Through this, the Orchids can perform better. At this stage, our women are only playing at club level and the regional championships before being selected for the Orchids.
“We just need a bigger competition played across the country.”
Fellow Orchid Therese Aiton said women’s rugby league in the country was slowly changing the attitude of men and that it would continue to improve.
The rake said it would be satisfying for women’s rugby league if the Orchids could get the same attention and followers as the men’s national team (Kumuls).