Digicel Cup workshop begins

A TWO-DAY Digicel Cup coaching and refereeing workshop will be held in Port Moresby from today.
Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League chief executive Stanley Hondina said the workshop, themed ‘improving standards’, would involve all 12 Digicel Cup clubs and referees.
“The workshop, facilitated by PNG LNG coach Michael Marum, is expected to cover topics ranging from the roles and responsibilities of the coach and his staff, including medical to the Banis Protocols,” Hondina said.
“The keynote speakers on the opening day via recorded video will be former Kumul John Wilshire and Paramatta Eels elite pathway coaching director and PNG LNG Kumuls support staff Joseph Grima.”
He said video messages would be relayed by Kumuls captain Rhys Martin, SP Hunters coach Matthew Church and captain Ila Alu as well as Melbourne Storm centre Justin Olam.
“There will also be presentations on the women’s game by Oil Search PNG Orchids captain Elsie Albert and the National Rugby League’s ‘League for Life’ programme,” Hondina said.
“Consultation between referees and coaches is paramount.”
He said the workshop would be held at Sir John Guise Stadium with practical sessions to take place on the field.
“The workshop covers not only what coaches, trainers and their staff can do for their franchises but importantly to exercise these values from our premier competition to the affiliated leagues, which include women, Under-20s and juniors in schools,” Hondina said.
“The objective is to improve our standards at all levels.”
He said the 2021 Digicel Cup season, compliant leagues and the schools competition were expected to kick off in the next two weeks.
“We’re awaiting approval from the Pandemic Controller’s Office and hopefully should announce the Digicel Cup kick-off date and release the draws at the end of the workshop on Friday,” Hondina said.