Mixed year for rugby league

HeLLO to all our rugby league families in PNG and overseas. Welcome to the 24th edition of Coach’s Corner in your favourite rugby league newspaper — The National.
The SP Hunters finished the 2019 Intrust Super Cup season on a winning note when we beat South Logan Magpies by a point last Sunday.
This is a positive sign the team can take into next season. We have the end-of-the-year awards tonight when all the season statistics plus other statistics of importance over the past six seasons will be revealed. Tonight will be my last appearance as head coach of the Hunters.
Big thanks to everyone who have supported me over the past six seasons. I will give you all a reflection of the past six years in next week’s article. The PNG-Broncos legends exhibition match last Saturday brought back a lot of memories.
It was refreshing to mix among these group of former PNG Kumuls from different eras. We resolved to make this event annually when opportunities become available.
The Oil Search PNG Orchids put up a valiant effort against NRLW premiers Brisbane Broncos. It was pleasing to see our women show signs of improvements. There is still a lot more work to be done.
The Confederate National Championships kicked off in Lae yesterday with the women battling it out. This also is an avenue for players to be selected from for the Orchids.
The Under-20 men are on today and tomorrow will see the senior men fight for major honours to see which confederate is the best. Prepare well and play your best rugby league for the supporters and fans in Lae and surrounding areas.
Selectors and PNGRFL officials are there so please put on a good show. I will be there as well tomorrow. I Look forward to seeing you all.
The Digicel Cup grand final is set for Sunday.
Minor premiers Lae Snax Tigers take on Kroton Hela Wigmen who are on a momentum. It will go down to the wire. I wish both teams every success and may the best team win.
Most leagues are either completing their regular seasons or starting their finals series.
Play excellent football and be good people both on and off the field during the business end of the season.
Tensions will be high but remember the game of rugby league is bigger than you and I. Until next week, play hard. Play safe and play by the rules in whatever sport you are competing in.
And most importantly, there is no room for violence in any game so cheer your team passionately. There will always be one winner.

Cheers,
Mikz