Association receives trophies from firm

By ELIAS LARI
THE Mt Hagen Soccer Association received 14 trophies from Panamex Pacific (PNG) Ltd on Tuesday.
The trophies will be awarded to the men’s and women’s champions and runners-up this season.
Panamex Highlands sales manager Jason Kobua said the company was providing the trophies under its Blue Sea brand.
He said the company was not new to supporting communities and this was part of giving back to the people.
Kobua said sporting activities needed such assistance and the company was looking to continue its support next year.
“This is part of supporting community activities and Panamex is coming to the aid of the Mt Hagen Soccer Association with 14 trophies,” he said.
“We will look at making our presence felt over the weekends which will boost the morale of the players and association executives.”
Kobua said such support would help keep youths occupied through sports.
He said despite football not having a big following in Mt Hagen compared with rugby league, his company’s support would encourage soccer players to continue showcasing their skills and make a name for themselves in the sport.
Association president Samuel Kini thanked Panamex for the support and said his aim was to continue developing soccer in Western Highlands and throughout the region.
He said the competition had also attracted Jiwaka teams which brought the total number of sides to 32 (16 men’s and women’s teams each).
“We are planning to end the season with a proper presentation of trophies and cash prizes which will encourage more people to join,” Kini said.
He said his association was looking to promote the sport among youths who were doing nothing constructive.
“We’re looking at bringing soccer to the next level but we will need support,” Kini said.
He said they were looking at hosting their semifinals this weekend before ending the season with next week’s grand finals.