Dulux Group steps in to brighten up AFL PNG
By KEITH PUARIA
THE Dulux Group has again put a foot forward to support the AFL PNG academy, a first for Papua New Guinea.
Dulux’s contribution includes the painting and refurbishment of offices, accommodation, training and playing grounds at both the academy, out at Della Salle, Bomana and Amini Park.
On hand to make the announcement yesterday at the Dulux office, was regional manager Doug Bell and sales supervisor William Oga.
“Our association with AFL PNG, like our commitment to cricket earlier, gives us not just the opportunity to drive sports but the larger community as well. Through this kind of training programmes, we are able to assist children who will come through from different areas of the community,” Bell said.
“As a member of the corporate sector, this is part of our role for community service,” Oga said.
AFL PNG’s Walter Yangomina thanked Dulux for its support, pointing out that the partnership was a greater part of the initial establishment of the academy.
“It is fantastic to have Dulux come on board, at an important time. I thank too the De La Salle Secondary School for opening its doors to the academy,” he said.
Yangomina added that with the initial number of 17, currently in Bomana, it would eventually grow.
He said the academy would be a hub for the country’s potential talents in AFL, with cricket already stating their interest to be a part of the institution.
“The purpose of the academy is to build a basic athlete infrastructure around the talent, but this will run parallel with the school curriculum.
“The programme is based on the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and AFL component or module”.
Together with the education and training, members of the academy will also get the opportunity to familiarise themselves with nutrition, specific training, proper preparations prior to actually entering a playing park.
Yangomina also mentioned that the academy was about 100m down from the Bomana War cemetery, and would be a great opportunity for interest from visitors, especially Australians, passing through.