Hunters’ survival ‘crucial’

The National Sports
PNGRFL committed to keep programme running: Tsaka

By PARKER TAMBUA
THE Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) says it is committed to keeping the SP Hunters programme running despite the Intrust Super Cup season cancellation over the coronavirus pandemic.
PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka told The National earlier this month that it would allow for a smooth transition heading into the new season next year.”
He said the Hunters were the “cream of the crop” in the country and that PNGRFL was in discussion with their sponsors to put in place training programmes for the players to maintain their fitness.
“PNGRFL is committed to this. We need to keep the programme running so that we hit the ground running when the new season kicks off next year,” Tsaka said.
“If the programme collapses now, it will be difficult to start again next year. Not only on the football front but in terms of sponsorships and other PNGRFL programmes.” He said the Digicel Cup could be used for the Hunters to maintain their fitness but admitted that even the country’s premier rugby league competition was at risk of being affected this season.
Tsaka said it was important that they had a dialogue with corporate bodies to find ways to keep the players fit and focused throughout the year.
“We are going through unprecedented times but the Hunters are the country’s elite programme,” he said.
“Without the programme, the game will not survive. That is why we’re in talks with our sponsors to find a way to keep the Hunters intact.
“The good thing is that the sponsors have been considerate of the situation we are facing.
“Our board has discussed with them that we should get the players involved in training programmes heading into next year.
“We will keep an open dialogue with the senior players so that they understand what we want to achieve and we can work together with the players going forward.”
Tsaka said the training programmes may require the Hunters to work with PNGRFL while in camp in Port Moresby or it could see them training from home.