Kumuls receive K5.4mil

Tsaka hails PNG LNG for renewing sponsorship for the next three years

THE Papua New Guinea Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project, operated by ExxonMobil PNG, yesterday announced the renewal of its sponsorship for the Kumuls and their domestic programmes with an allocation of K5.4 million over the next three years.
ExxonMobil PNG executive director, production, Keith Killian said the PNG LNG project, which had been backing the Kumuls since the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, was proud to continue its support of the national men’s team.
He said they were happy to support the Kumuls for this year’s World Cup in England as well as upcoming test matches and programmes.
“We share the vision of the PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and Government to support and develop rugby league in PNG, and to see our national team, the PNG LNG Kumuls, succeed and promote even higher standards for the game in PNG,” Killian said.
“We value our partnership with PNGRFL because we are two organisations that are committed to sharing our values of leadership, teamwork, respect, personal integrity and excellence.
“Rugby league is only one aspect our support for this great nation.
“The PNG LNG project is delivering sustainable, long-term benefits for all project stakeholders, contributing to economic growth and strengthening the resilience of communities across PNG.”
PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka said ExxonMobil continued to support the Kumuls despite it being a challenging period for the country’s economy.
“PNG LNG’s commitment to continue its support of the Kumuls over the next three years also provides for health, development, community and social messages,” he said.
“Under the sponsorship, we have seen the fruits of our national team over the last eight years.
“They have been the testament to the success of the Kumuls and we thank you for the continued support.
“All international fixtures look promising and are on track to kick off in June, leading up to the World Cup at the end of the year.”
Tsaka said the tentative schedule for the Kumuls would see a Pacific Test against Fiji in June in Port Moresby and the annual Prime Minister’s 13 fixture against Australia in September — also in Port Moresby.
“Since 2013, PNG LNG has not only backed our national team, they have been supportive in the development of coaches, referees and juniors from the grassroots, National Schools Rugby League, all affiliated leagues throughout the country and hosting the annual senior men’s, women’s and Under-20 men’s national championships,” he said.
Michael Marum said he had enjoyed working with ExxonMobil not only as head coach of the Kumuls but in other programmes.
“I really appreciate the support of PNG LNG,” he said.
“The team have done well, thanks to their support.
“I’ve also enjoyed working with them in other programmes in places like Komo, Hides and Papa.
“We look forward to the support while we prepare for upcoming international matches.”