Tepend to assist Church

THE SP Hunters have appointed Digicel Cup premiership-winning coach Stanley Tepend as assistant coach for next season in the Queensland Intrust Super Cup.
Tepend will be an assistant to Hunters coach Matthew Church, bringing his experience from nine seasons in charge of the Lae Snax Tigers including four premierships and six minor premierships.
SP Hunters chairman Stan Joyce said he was delighted that Tepend would join the Hunters.
“This is a very pleasing appointment because it adds even more experience and insight to the Hunters coaching staff,” he said.
“This is a significant announcement because we are as committed to developing our coaching talent as we are committed to developing our on-field talent. “Tepend will help us in those goals.”
In September, Tepend guided the Tigers to a 16-10 win over Waghi Tumbe in the Digicel Cup grand final at the Oil Search National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
That capped a stellar period for Tepend as coach of the Tigers, stretching from his inaugural season in 2013 through to premierships in 2016, 2017, 2019 and 2021.
During that time, Tepend was also an assistant coach of the Papua New Guinea Kumuls and mentored the Prime Minister’s 13 team against Australia.
Tepend will join Church and Paul Aiton on the Hunters coaching staff.
“I am thankful for the opportunity given to me to come in as an assistant for Church and rest of the coaching staff,” he said.
“I know the Intrust Super Cup is at a higher level with a lot of teams having National Rugby League experience and to be given this opportunity is enormous for me to be a part of the Hunters system.
“I am looking forward to learning off Matt and his support staff.
“I know they handled season 2021 the best they could, under extremely challenging circumstances, and I know the second year in Australia will be better for players and staff as they will know what to expect.
“Thank you to Joyce and the board of the Hunters, chief executive Scott Barker, Church and coaching staff, PNG Rugby Football League chief executive Stanley Hondina and chairman Sandis Tsaka.”
Church said he was looking forward to linking with Tepend for the offseason later this month in PNG.
Early next year, the Hunters will again relocate to Queensland for the season because of Coronavirus travel restrictions.
“Tepend’s coaching record is unmatched in PNG,” Church said.
“He brings a wealth of knowledge and this is an excellent opportunity for him to gain valuable experience at the Intrust Super Cup level.
“The Hunters want to attract the best in PNG – the best players and coaches.
“Tepend certainly fits into that description.”
“We are excited he will join us and look forward to developing his coaching career as he helps develop the Hunters.”