Sport lends a hand

By ISAAC LIRI
THE Madang Soccer Association in conjunction with its National Soccer League franchise will donate 10 per cent of its home gate takings this season to help those affected by the volcano on Kadovar Island.
The East Sepik island, which is situated close to the sea border with Madang, started spewing out ash on Sunday, Jan 7 causing the evacuation of more than 2000 inhabitants.
The displaced islanders are looking at an uncertain period on the mainland and need help from the provincial authorities as well as the government to resettle for what could an extended period.
The MSA took the intiative to help those in need with their province having experienced a similar occurrence with the eruption of the volcano on Manam Island in 1996 causing the evacuation of thousands of people.
Further eruptions over the years (2004 and 2014) had forced virtually everyone off the island.
The MSA committed to initiate a fundraising drive to contribute to the Kadovar Disaster appeal, starting with the NSL’s second round fixture in Madang on Saturday.
“The Madang FC-Southern Strikers game on Saturday at Laiwaden Oval will be used to start the fundraiser,” the MSA said.
The MSA and Madang FC will donate 10 percent of all adult tickets sold. “It is a small gesture to show our neighbours that we care, and that soccer is not only about playing on the field f but doing something off the field as well.”
The association appealed to fans to support the cause and buy tickets — on sale Friday.
The association said the public wishing to buy tickets could text the mobile numbers: 71759811 or 70932492 or 72923327.