Chimbu focus on boosting league

By KEITH PUARIA
CHIMBU are intent on strengthening their support for the growth and development of rugby league in the province.
An initiative by Governor Noah Kool has seen the establishment of a working committee that includes representatives from the government, private sector and stakeholders to serve the interests of the game.
Committee member Andy Brawa last week corrected previous comments about the purpose of the committee.
“The committee was not established for the purpose of setting up the Simbu Warriors franchise in the PNGNRL as was reported,” he said.
“It is a working committee that has been set up in line with the current government’s interest in properly establishing rugby league around the country, and this board will make sure that we regulate rugby league and the provinces identity in the sport.”
He said Kool – a former PNG Kumul – also expressed gratitude to TNA and Kongo Coffee, the franchise owners of the provincial team over the previous seasons.
“They have been an integral part of rugby league growth and will be part of this committee,” Brawa said.
“We need their continuous support in developing that aspect of exposure for our local talent.
“We just want to ensure the best for our players.”
He added that all Chimbu members of parliament would support the committee’s activities through cash donations.
Brawa said the committee would promote the development of local players through strengthening district competitions and enter a provincial team in the Ipatas Cup competition.
Pastor Solomon Mingas is the chairman of the committee and Daisy Mori the secretary.
; Andy Brawa – administrator; former magistrate Jeffrey Siki; Provincial Police Commander Supt Augustine Wampe; Kundiawa RL president Timothy Simbya; Health Department official Dr Joshua Kaman; business representative Wally Yagiora; John Kawage representing Kerowagi MP; Lucas Kee for Gumine MP and Sam Goiye representing Sinasina-Yongomugl MP.