Prop Moide joins Lae franchise

By PARKER TAMBUA
PREMIERSHIP-WINNING Hela Wigmen forward Tommy Moide has joined reigning Digicel Cup champions Lae Tigers for the upcoming season.
The Hanuabada villager, who was instrumental in the Wigmen’s title-winning 2020 season, told The National yesterday that he wanted a new challenge away from Port Moresby.
“It will be the first time for me to be away from my family,” former Hunters train-on squad member Moide said.
“It’s a tough choice because my family has always been there for me.
“But I have to try something new.
“I believe that being based in Lae with the Tigers will help change my life.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Moide said his goal was to play more minutes for the Lae Biscuit Company-sponsored Tigers.
“But I have to work harder and be more consistent all season,” he said. “The Tigers are the benchmark in PNG.
“I know they have a good system, so I am keen to be part of the side this year.”
The former Port Moresby Viper, Central Dabari and Wigman said he had not given up on making the SP Hunters and Papua New Guinea Kumuls.
“I’m waiting patiently for a Hunters call-up,” he said.
“I certainly haven’t given up yet.
“I will try harder in the upcoming season.
“Hopefully, the Hunters can give me another trial in the next pre-season.
“Making the Kumuls still remains a goal.
“I know there are more experienced forwards ahead of me, but anything is possible.
“I will let my performances do the talking.”
Moide is a product of Kone Storm and Hanuabada Hawks in the Port Moresby Rugby Football League.
The prop made his Digicel Cup debut in 2017 with the Vipers where he played for two seasons before joining the Dabaris in 2019.
In 2020, he joined the Wigmen where he won his first premiership.