Undupia thanks Muruks for chance

FORMER PRK Mendi Muruks coach Thomas Undupia has formally welcomed the new management of the Mendi Muruks.
He also welcomed the appointment of the new coach Glen Nami who will now take over from him as the head coach, taking the Mendi team into the 2019 Digicel Cup competition.
Undupia also commended and thanked the board of Petroleum Resources Kutubu, the chairman John Kapi Natto, director Mark Sakai, other board members including the Southern Highlands provincial government and the people of Foi and Fasu for their continued support in being the major sponsor of the Muruks.
Undupia said he would also continue to support the team and promote rugby league in the province.
“The continued support of PRK is much acknowledged. This is the seventh year in row since for a local landowner company to supporting the team in the Digicel Cup.
“It has become a tradition for the Muruks board to change their players, management, officials, coaching stuff and water boy every year. On behalf of all the outgoing officials and players of 2018, I would like to congratulate and welcome Eric Alom as the new manager, Glen Nami as the incoming head coach and the officials, old and new players with the development squad, we wish you all the best the season,” Undupia said.
“I would also like to thank the Muruks board for having faith and trust in me and appointing me as the head coach for the team last year.
“Our campaign was not up to the franchise owner, board members, supporters and stake holder’s expectations. Last year was my first year as a head coach for a team in the Digicel Cup. The experience I encountered and gained both on and off the field was a blessing in disguise, it has helped me to be more focused, confident and stronger now to pursue my dream as a coach. I have no regrets.
“As a Southern Highlander, and as a rugby league man, I will continue to support the Muruks, a team I have played for and am proud of and am willing to help in any way.
“I will continue to help develop rugby league in SHP in my own capacity and do my best in lifting standards. I have been doing it and will carry on. I still believe that rugby league will unite the province and the Muruks is the vehicle to facilitate unity among the people of Southern Highlands,” Undupia said.