Southern body a reservoir of league talent

By Cadet Reporters ABIGAIL WAFI and MERCY ANGAI
BOASTING 10,000 players spread across 17 leagues, the Southern Confederation held its trials over the past week to select talented players for the National Zone Championships in September.
“The independent selection panel provided by the confederation consists of professionals,” Southern Confederation director Gwaibo Mairi said on Tuesday.
“They identify and select raw talent to represent the Southern zone.
“The zone dominates at almost every championships.
“So far, so good. I’m proud that the outside leagues are now matching the Port Moresby Rugby League (PRL).
“If the trend continues, the standard of rugby league in the zone will only improve.”
Mairi said with about 10,000 players spread across 17 leagues, there was an abundance of talent pushing for opportunities in the Digicel Cup, the Papua New Guinea Hunters programme and the championships.
Confederation trials are considered the springboards for rural players, who don’t normally get the chance to shine in more established leagues like the PRL.
The Southern Confederation, in particular, promotes programmes across its affiliations to help raise the standard of the sport.