PNGSF names sides for Sydney challenge

THE PNG Softball Federation has announced a 24-man and 19-woman’s squad to take part in an invitational game in Sydney, Australia, in July.
PNG Softball Federation vice-president Ralph Tarasomo announced the teams on Monday after the 35th National Gaming Control Board-sponsored national softball championships at the Takubar field in Kokopo, East New Britain province.
He said the men’s team would be called “Maleos” and women’s team “Malips”.
Tarasomo said it would take two months for the squads to prepare for the game in Sydney, which will coincide with the term two school holidays.
The Maleos: Daniel Tovia, Saga Gimi, Nelson Timur, Neli Naunau, David Torang, Ora Gimi, Ezekiel Tovia, David Tuvi, Raymond Dio, Peter Sale, Consie Bais, Consie Lumaris, Kevin Pascalis, Mark Ilam, Sale Taki, Daniel Tovang, Kelly Upa, Steven Upa, Steven Polum, Luke Levi, Redi Towong, Darius Kua, Michael Parom and Briton Zale.
The Malips: Juliet Seri, Natasha Pilak, Salome Liu, Natalie Bart, Priscilla Moke, Emma Makis, Nawasah Pilak, Nessa Karai, Celesta Luka, Helen Steven, Judy Simba, Elsie Devida, Joyce Manai, Georgina Mautu, Kala Tokai, Matilda Moi, Rosemary, Nadia Bais and Nellie Manai.
The ENB softball league was a happy recipient of a K10,000 funding from its patron, Kokopo MP and Minister for Communication and Information, Patrick Tammur.
Tammur commended the league president Cleopas Warpit for re-organising the sport in the province after softball facilities in Rabaul town were destroyed during the 1994 volcanic eruptions.
He also presented a K20,000 cheque to Warpit.
East New Britain Governor Leo Dion thanked the NGCB chief executive officer Simon Sanagke for being the major sponsor of the championships.
Dion challenged the National Government through Tammur to uphold their commitment to the province in the establishment of a stadium in preparations for the 2012 Games.
Meanwhile, four centres have placed their bid to host the next softball championships, including the defending champions, Port Moresby.