PNG Power set to join POM AFL competition

By SULI SULI
A NEWLY-established club will set foot at the Colts Oval next week when the Port Moresby (POM) Australian Football League (AFL) preseason kicks off.
The newcomers PNG Power AFL club will enter the 2023 Moni Plus POMAFL competition for the first time this year with two teams in the men’s A-grade and a reserve side.
Club founder and inaugural coach Emmaus Wartovo, who is also a former PNG Mosquitoes player, said the club would use the POMAFL platform to engage youths and give them the opportunity work the way up the ranks.
“As a former national player, I feel like it’s time to give back to the community,” Wartovo said.
“Seeing a lot young boys doing nothing, I’m putting the team to get them off the street and I’m more than happy to help and teach them the game.
“We will have A-grade and A reserve team with bulk of the players from PNG Power Hohola.
“Other senior players from the existing clubs will also join us for our inaugural season.
“This is our first time to take part in POMAFL and my boys and I are looking forward for this season
“My goal for this season is to give the new boys the chance to showcase their talent and hopefully take part in the championship in Lae and making it through to the PNG Mosquitoes.”
Wartovo said the club started training last Monday in preparation for the preseason games scheduled for next weekend.
“I have been planning to put up the team since last year before Christmas, since there’s a lot of young boys roaming our streets,” he said.
“This is will be their first AFL competition and I’m proud of the boys that they’re a more interested to play.
“My target for the season is to make it to the finals. It’s our first time but with the help of senior players from other clubs (who will be joining) and I have trust in them that will make it to the finals,” Wartovo said.