Oil Search signs three-year agreement to sponsor Orchids

OIL Search Ltd signed a three-year contract agreement deal with PNG Rugby Football League for its PNG Orchids brand, with undisclosed but substantial amount of money.
As the naming rights sponsor Oil Search Ltd managing director Peter Botten preferred not to reveal the sponsorship for the Orchids development process and programmes in the country.
“We are proud to be partners in the growth and development of the game in the country,” Botten said.
Botten said the three-year sponsorship from 2019- 2021 is not only for the Orchids but also for development of schoolgirls Under-18 to deliver the game.
“This sponsorship will have a positive impact for the development of the women’s game” he said.
“This is to grow the game across the country as an opportunity with the support of Oil Search Foundation” he said.
Botten said that the change in attitude of the locals after international meet at the National Football Stadium was a proud moment.
“Our people are accepting the change of life style involving gender equality in the community.
PNGRFL chairman Sandis Tsaka added that the continuity of the sponsorship indicates the passion and confidence Oil Search Ltd has in the PNG Orchids brand to empower women and girls in rugby league in the community.
Tsaka said the support will go a long way in terms of development, growth and rebuilding process of the game in PNG.
“The Orchids have five international events on the calendar Oceania Cup on June 22 in Sydney, July Pacific Games in Apia, Samoa, World Cup Rugby League Nines and Invitational with Brisbane Broncos and England Roses.
“This is good for competitiveness at this level to show how our players feature in these events as much as possible.
“That also will grow the standard and quality of the game in the country.
“We have broken the barrier with Tari, Sogeri and Mendi now playing women’s rugby league which has set the pace for women’s competition in the country.
“The mindset changing the culture and traditional beliefs for women to be actively involve in rugby league” he said.
“It’s the power of the brand that has positive impact and empowering women to aspire with the involvement of Oil Search Foundation.