Coach Sipa hails Paraia for making Hunters train-on squad

By MICHAEL PHILIP
COACH Joe Sipa has praised Port Moresby Vipers junior Kingstimer Paraia for earning a spot in the SP Hunters’ train-on squad.
Paraia and Lae Tigers fullback Sanny Wabo are late replacements for Hunters backs Brendon Gotuno and Norman Brown, who were considered unfit on their return for the pre-season.
“I’m excited about the selection of Paraia,” Sipa said.
“He is a young player who we brought in this year from our development squad.
“He is committed to play at that elite level of rugby league.
“For him to make the squad, I am not surprised because that’s a reward for the hard work and commitment he has put in.
“I am excited to see him make the train-one squad.”
The 23-year-old is the first Port Moresby Menjails product to join the Hunters system.
He played for the Menjails in 2018 and 2019 during the National Capital District Governor’s Cup after he switched from rugby union.
This year, the Vipers scouted Paraia for their academy side who were competing in the Southern Super League National Gaming Control Board Cup.
“His commitment had earned him a spot in my team, so we gave him the chance to make his debut game against Waghi Tumbe,” Sipa said.
“Paraia has so far played just two Digicel Cup games, but he has been impressive.
“He is also a natural leader, so we gave him the chance to captain Port Moresby Vipers Academy.”
The Vipers coaching staff and Menjails wished him all the best in his pre-season training with the Hunters.
“Nothing is hard, Paraia can make the final squad,” the coach said.
“It all depends on his commitment.
“I’m hoping other Academy players go on to emulate Paraia by making the Hunters squad.”