Big league back

The National Sports

By PARKER TAMBUA
DIGICEL ExxonMobil Cup competition unveiled its new trophy replacing the old one which has been used for the last 13 seasons.
The new trophy was showcased during the season launch at the Holiday Inn in Port Moresby last night.
Captains of the 12 franchises were present to witness the introduction of the new trophy as well as the launch of the season.
Senior vice-president of Digicel PNG Lorna McPherson said the new trophy was inspired by the national significance of rugby league in Papua New Guinea.
“In August 2022 Digicel launched the new trophy design competition. The competition was run for a month and design artists from across the country participated.
“After everyone sent in their designs, it went through a panel of judges from Digicel and PNG National Rugby League Competition. The winner was a designer from Madang, his name is John Bosco Sardo.
“John is a graphic artist and a freelancer. His vision for the trophy was inspired by the national significance of rugby league.
“The design has incorporated elements that pays homage to PNG’s rich cultural heritage. The trophy serves as a sample of unit, of pride and of the excellence, embodying the spirit, the competition and the unity that defines the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup.”
McPherson said Digicel was proud to continue its support for the intercity competition as it is an important platform to develop the youths.
ExxonMobil managing director Tera Shandro shared same sentiments. Shandro paid tribute to Enga Mioks for creating history in PNG intercity by being undefeated in 2023.
Shandro said rugby league engendered an undeniable sense of pride that united the country and ExxonMobil will continue to support it.
The 2024 season kicks off on Saturday with Waghi Tumbe to host the Central Dabaris at Jonah Ambane Oval in Minj (2pm kick-off).
Port Moresby’s National Football Stadium will have a festival of rugby league with triple header games on Saturday, starting with Gulf Isou and Mt Hagen Eagles at 11am.
The only game on Sunday will see Mendi Muruks face Hela Wigmen at Lae Rugby League ground (3pm kick-off).