Beerwald relishing chance to represent PNG

AUSTRALIAN-based junior basketballer Ryan Beerwald is grateful to be given an opportunity to represent PNG when the country hosts the Fiba Under-17 Oceania championships next month.
The 17-year-old said this would be an honour to represent his mum’s heritage of East New Britain and the Islands region having played the code for eight years.
“I’ve been playing basketball for eight years now back in Townsville, North Queensland…and to be named in the U17 PNG boys’ team is a privilege,” he said.
“It has always been a goal of mine to represent my mum’s heritage in this code. It feels great to come back here, train with the boys.”
Beerwald, who travelled into the country with his mum, attended another training camp with the extended squad over the weekend with hopes of finding a perfect combination as part of preparations towards the Oceania championships.
“There’s potential with the boys and still more room to grow from.”
Beerwald said his mum’s family would be at the event to show support during his first time representing PNG.
“I do have goals to represent PNG, most possibly the men’s national team in the future but it starts off from here. I just have to work my way up and see where it takes me.”