SHP hopeful for tourney

By PARKER TAMBUA
ORGANISERS of the Southern Highlands Rugby League Nines tournament are hopeful of holding the event in Mendi from Dec 2-5 despite the country’s Coronavirus situation, says an official.
Tournament coordinator Terence Kapipi told The National on Sunday that they were hoping the border restrictions in the region would ease on time for kick-off in Mendi.
He said the third edition of the annual tournament was expected to be bigger than previous years.
“This year’s tournament is definitely going to be bigger because we are receiving interest from teams from all over the country, unlike before,” he said.
“There are New Guinea Islands teams that have reached out register for the tournament. There are couple of Mamose teams and three Port Moresby sides that have already paid their registration fees.
“Many Highlands teams have shown interest too.
“There will be men’s and women’s divisions.
“For the men’s division, we are looking at 16 teams – eight of which will be from the host province.
“The women’s division will have 8 teams. Reigning women’s champions Lae Spiders have confirmed their participation.
“We will also have tournament rookies Paga Panthers from the Port Moresby Rugby Football League women’s division.” Kapipi said they would host the tournament on either the Joe Keviame Oval or Momei Oval. He said SP Hunters winger Solo Wane had been named as an ambassador of the tournament.