NGIP 9s Cup attracts 18 teams in 2011

 By ELIZABETH VUVU

THE NGIP Agmark Cup corporate 9s tournament is set to kick off tomorrow with 18 teams confirmed to play a 17- round tournament in at Kalabond Oval in Kokopo.

Last year’s reigning champions Paveks NBC Wanderers will be back this year to defend their title. 

Tournament coordinator Michael Marum said last year 20 teams participated, but this year the tournament would only field 18 teams which he attributed to teams not attending a meeting on Wednesday to confirm their team’s participation.

New teams participating this year are Rabaul Dogs, Rabaul Reds, Gazelle Nuts From Tinganagalip, Warangoi Razorbacks and Eagles from CIS Kerevat.

The official kick-off will be done by NGIP executive director John Nightingale which will include a parade by all teams.

Marum said this will be the fourth year for the tournament to take place and discussions are underway to have a regional 9s tournament consisting of teams from all New Guinea Islands leagues to be staged after their regular season finals

The opening two games will see Southern Enterprise Panthers take on  Locksmith Tigers followed by Warangoi Razorbacks against  Rabtrans Saints.