Funds for Kumuls

THE national government  has given K200,000 to the Kumuls to help them prepare for the Four Nations next month.
The PNGRFL also recieved K100,000 for expenses related to the Prime Minister’s XIII fixture.
Acting Sports Minister James Marape, when making the announcement yesterday, thanked the prime minister and finance and treasury minister saying that the government’s confidence was rewarded by the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII spirited performance over the weekend.
“The government is pleased with the efforts of the new coach, management, the players and the PNGRFL interim committee for their commitment so far,” Marape said.
“The K300,000 is an initial payment to assist team management cater for expenses related to the Prime Minister’s XIII and help prepare for the Four Nations.”
Interim committee member Gary Juffa received the funding on behalf of the interim committee and thanked the government for their timely assistance.
“The funds will be utilised to engage professional staff such as a physiotherapist, payments for a one-week camp in Cairns for related expenses such as equipment and gear for the team, necessary logistics and so forth,” Juffa said.
“There is a need to develop a systematic and disciplined approach to our preparations and the weekend’s performance by the PM’s XIII was the result of such discipline.
“I am sure the critics are there but I am confident in the new coach, the management, the players and those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure success.”
A 30-man Kumuls squad will be announced today.