‘Oval will never be same again after Nightingale’s passing’

PAPUA New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) chairman Sandis Tsaka says “Kalabond Oval will never be the same again” following the passing of Rabaul Gurias chairman and founder John Nightingale.
“We will miss ‘Papa Guria’ dearly but rugby league is in a better place and will prosper because of his involvement in the game,” he said of the Agmark boss.
Nightingale passed away last week after battling cancer for six months. “He was a great man of uncompromising integrity and resolve, and his legacy will live through his immense contributions in business, sports, his family and the many lives he touched,” Tsaka said.
“His resilience and determination to succeed in any venture he put his mind to is legendary and matched only by his generosity and unrelenting pursuit to create better opportunities for many Papua New Guineans, whether it was in sports, business, employment, education or just helping disadvantaged individuals or communities.
“The game has lost a passionate advocate, supporter and leader and we will miss his wisdom, guidance and stewardship in all aspects of our game.
“But whilst we lament his passing, we are honoured to also celebrate his life and legacy, and thank our Good Lord for blessing us with the life of this great man.
“The Kalabond Oval will never be the same again.” Tsaka said PNGRFL would always be grateful to have had Nightingale as a part of the country’s rugby league fraternity.
“We are thankful for the many memories and blessings that we will cherish,” he said.
“On behalf of PNGRFL, our corporate partners, friends and the entire rugby league family across PNG, we thank children James, Steven and Nemika, wife Derrie, the Nightingale family and the Agmark staff for sharing this great man with us all.
“The rugby league family shares with you all our sorrow and condolences and we pray that Our Good Lord comforts you and gives you peace at this most difficult of times.
“We also acknowledge and thank all our many friends and supporters of rugby league in PNG and from all over the world who have shared prayers, support and condolences messages with us and the family.”