Kamen is Aussie U18 rugby captain

A YOUNG Papuan New Guinean was appointed captain of an Australian U18 side, the Brighton Chiefs, for a three-week tour of United Kingdom in rugby union last month.
Zebby Kamen of Enga and Western Highlands parentage is a hidden talent for many Papua New Guineans living offshore.
The 17-year-old high school student is enjoying the limelight in his sporting career. 
In a lead up to the trip, the PNG Bees touch football team manager Simon Poiya pledged A$500 to Kamen for the trip.
Poiya was part of the touch team that travelled to South Australia for the Masters touch football tournament last year.
The teenager is already hitting waves in South Australia. The youngster’s father is from Sauanda village, Kompian district, Enga and the mother is from Operal, Western Highlands.
Kamen is also hoping to one day represent PNG if given the opportunity.
He has been selected to study Bachelor of Engineering and System Management at the University of South Australia this year.
“We have never heard of this young man until we went down to South Australia. He has huge potential and having captained an Australian state side. It is a milestone for a Papua New Guinean and we are proud of him,” Poiya, who is working the Bank South Pacific branch in Port Moresby, said.
Asked if he is keen to  represent PNG, he said: “At the moment I am prepared to represent PNG if given the opportunity. For me to represent Australia also gives me a great opportunity to get exposure and play among some of the best young players.”
Kamen has been playing rugby union for the Southern Suburban rugby union club since 2005 and represented the state from 2006 to 2011.
Kamen has travelled throughout Australia and New Zealand for the U12, U14 and U18 teams. He has also represented Australia in U18 rugby league competition.
“Despite representing Australia, I still want to represent my home country. It is up to the selectors back home. At this point, I do not know if they are aware I am playing at this level. I am hopeful that once they do and asked me to play for PNG, I certainly will,” Kamen said.