Hukula named new women’s league coach

FORMER SP PNG Hunters assistant coach Nigel Hukula, pictured, has been named the new coach of the PNG Orchids.
PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka said the PNGRFL board who appoints the head coach of the Kumuls, Hunters, Orchids and all its international teams, endorsed the appointment of Hukula replacing David Westley.
Orchids executive management committee chairman Ruth Waram welcomed the appointment.
“Nigel is no stranger to rugby league, having represented PNG as a Kumul, coached and played at the Digicel Cup level and has worked closely with Michael Marum with the Hunters and various roles with the Kumuls as well,” Waram said.
“Nigel brings with him a wealth of experience that I am confident the team will benefit from during their calendar over the next 12 months.’’
Hukula thanked the PNGRFL for their confidence in him.
“I’ve watched the team since their participation at the Women’s Rugby League World Cup and how far they have progressed and I’m excited to be part of the team that is contributing to the development of women’s rugby league in PNG,’’ Hukula said.
The Orchids have a busy calendar this year, participating in four international events, including the Pacific Games in Samoa in July.
PNGRFL CEO Reatau Rau said Hukula’s appointment was aboon for the game. “Since Nigel’s resignation from the Hunters, we have kept a dialogue with him.
“PNGRFL was involved in Nigel’s technical qualification during his time with the Hunters and had a desire to see if he might want to contribute to the organisation in some other role.