Dolphins beat Telikom to clinch national title

Fairfax Volleyball Association’s Raukele Dolphins came out on top of the volleyball club championships after defeating National Capital District Volleyball Association’s Telikom three sets to one in the women’s grand final.
Raukele coach Koavea Karulaka had faith in his girls from the beginning as they dominated in all aspects of the game to claim the top prize.
Telikom’s Kemmy Manoni and Alice Ito used their experience to win the second set and get them back into the contest, but Raukele remained composed to secure the third and final set.
Huon Gulf Raukele defeated Dura Birds from Kirakira Volleyball Association 3-1 to claim third spot.
PNG Volleyball Federation president Kila Dick said it had been 18 years since the last club championships was held and reviving it was a huge milestone for volleyball.
“18 years is a long time,” Dick said.
“The first ever club championships was in 2000, so I thank my executives for pushing to have this tournament again.
“The teams taking part are last year’s winners of their respective competitions that are affiliated with the PNG Volleyball Federation.
“We had 10 men’s and 9 women’s team, with most from NCD and Central.
“We must understand that clubs are foundations of the associations and that is why it is important to have club championships where the top sides come to challenge each other.
“Clubs set the standard to shape players, so that is why we have to promote them.”