Enga to host 7s soccer tourney

By MELTON PAIS
THE Enga Football Association is preparing to host a seven-a-side tournament for all its affiliates in the province at the end of this month, according to president David Ruddy.
Ruddy told The National that the tournament would be used to identify players to compete in a regional soccer competition — a new concept introduced by Papua New Guinea Football Association president John Kapi Natto, who visited the province last week.
“Enga will prepare for the Highlands challenge next year,” he said.
“The challenge will include a team each from Mt Hagen, Chimbu and Goroka, and Hekari.
Ruddy said his aim was to develop soccer in Enga.
He acknowledged Enga Governor Sir Peter Ipatas and Wabag MP Dr Lino Tom for supporting the sport.
Ruddy, who has been with the association for more than five years, admitted that he had been struggling to run soccer in the province.
“However, now that Kapi Natto has been appointed, my dream to develop soccer will become a reality with the help of Tom and Sir Peter,” Ruddy said.
“During Kapi Natto’s visit, my MPs had vowed to help grow soccer in Enga so I’m looking forward to it.”