BFPNG suspends programmes

THE Basketball Federation of Papua New Guinea (BFPNG) has suspended its programmes indefinitely following Fiba’s decision to halt funding for the initiatives over the global coronavirus pandemic.
“Our field programmes have been put on recess,” BFPNG chief executive Nick Daroa told The National on Tuesday.
“The Basketball for Good programmes, which we roll out on a weekly or fortnightly basis, have been halted.
“The Hoops for Health, Mum’s A Hero, Pikinini Hoops, Twilight and Corporate Hoops programmes have been halted.
“Also competitions run by our affiliated associations are on recess at present.” He said BFPNG would adhere to government and Fiba directives and precautionary measures.
“We will only resume our programmes once clearance is given by the mentioned authorities,” Daroa said.
“We have two fulltime employees and about 15 paid volunteers at this time. We have not scaled down our staff, only the programmes.
“Staff are remotely working online and in consultation with the BFPNG board and Fiba Oceania office, hence will be paid.
“Funding for the programmes has been halted until we are given the clearance to resume.”
He reminded the basketball fraternity and the public to practise basic hygiene.
“Wash your hands, cover your cough and practice social distancing whilst we all carry out virtual basketball work,” Daroa said.
“Team trainings and meetings are discouraged at this point in time. Remember, prevention is better than a cure. God bless PNG.”