Madang club aims to build positive image

SPARTANS have set their sights on rebuilding the image of the province through sports with the Madang rugby union club hosting and winning this year’s Rookes Sevens tournament.
Spartans head coach Joseph Mocke Jr said the tournament was an avenue for Madang players to showcase their skills and help address social issues in their communities.
A one-time sevens international player, the former SP Hunters squad member had stints with Goroka Lahanis and Lae Tigers in 2016 and 2017.
“We were thrilled to win our first sevens tournament,” Mocke said.
“It was extra special because it was also our first time as hosts.
“It was a great feeling to win the tournament after we had fallen short in the past three tournaments.
“Spartans are made up of Admin Compound and Redscar residents in Madang.
“We have three teams Spartans Senior, Spartel Spartans and Spartans Oldies.
“Coaching the teams is an eye-opener.
“I’ve seen potential in our players and have told them that there are many pathways not only in rugby league, but also rugby union.
“The main idea behind forming the club was to change the attitude of men through rugby union.”