Player development the goal for Wigmen

By KEVIN TEME
A CAREER pathway for rugby league players has been created with the formation of the Hela Wigmen.
In the club’s official launch in Port Moresby yesterday, coaching director and former NRL and Super league player, Luke Goodwin announced this as one of the roles of the club.
He said they would  help mould players to be better individuals as well as realising their dreams.
Goodwin said through Wigmen, some players would be given an opportunity to train with top NRL clubs.
“The Wigmen are dedicated to making a difference in the community. 
“We’re very much a community-based club not only in Hela region but also in Port Moresby and other centres as well,” Goodwin said.
“Our organisation provides a rugby league programme that helps develop the whole person through education and competition,” Goodwin said.
“We can’t just play and have nothing to fall back on to after our careers.
“That is why Wigmen is committed to whole development of our members through education and employment.”
Already three contracted players are employeed by Curtain Brothers in Port Moresby, the most notable being Kumul winger Michael Mark.
Goodwin also unveiled his marquee signings  in current Kumuls Jessie Joe Parker, Nixon Kolo, Larsen Marabe, Richard Kambo and Mark.
Wigmen have opted  not to have an official naming rights sponsor.
The Wigmen play   the Kongo Coffee Chimbu Warriors in the opening  fixture of the Digicel Cup in Kundiawa on May 1.
Meanwhile, Goodwin, who is yet to name his squad, named an experienced coaching and management staff.
The Wigmen management is Goodwin as the coaching director, Julian O’Neill (coaching coordinator), Kera Ngaffin (assistant coach), Jack Kedea (manager), Joseph Walter (high performance trainer), James Miviri (trainer), Anthony King (strength and conditioning coach) and Dr Michael Wilson (physio).
The club medical officer is Dr James Naipau, player development officer Ripa Kalamo, chaplin is Pr Wagit Gani and Charlie Ameko (support staff).
The team will play several trial matches in Tari from April 14-16 before the final squad is announced.