Voro happy to be a Hunter

21-year-old junior Kumul draws inspiration from Lockyer

By JAMIE HARO
RISING talent Gairo Voro has been given an opportunity to showcase his ability at the Queensland Cup level after being named in the SP PNG Hunters 30-man squad recently.
The 21-year-old from the Kapari along Abau’s Aroma coastline was called into the Hunters preseason training last year following an outstanding performance with the Junior Kumuls.
“Preseason training was really tough, but I had hopes to make the final 30-man squad so had to push over my limit and learn as much as I can from the senior players,” Voro said.
“Being named in the 30-man squad is a big opportunity for me to work extra hard so I get to have at least a few game time during this season to prove my worth.”
Voro, who has been playing rugby league 9s and rugby union in his home village, was scouted by the Central Dabaris under the club’s development programme following an outstanding performance at the Eda Dabaris 9s competition last year.
Idolising Queensland’s legendary five-eighth Darren Lockyer as a role model, Voro aspires to continue his form and play in that position.
He was selected in the Junior Kumuls side when PNG hosted the Australian School Boys in Port Moresby last September.
“I was given an opportunity to train in Dabaris development programme after participating in the Dabaris 9s competition. Another opportunity was added on that list when I was given the privilege to play for the PNG Junior Kumuls side,” he said.
“To be recognised by the Hunters management and recruited for preseason training was the biggest achievement because I didn’t think I would get this far, it was through hard work and commitment.
“My time spent with the Hunters has allowed me to learn as much as I can from all the coaches and the senior players, being one of the newest faces in the squad, it has been a great experience and I am hoping to make the best of it this season.”
Voro’s inclusion into the squad is encouraging for the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup franchise Central Dabaris to continue identify and develop more talents.
Voro joins fellow Dabaris stat Whallen Tau-Loi and Morea Morea in the Hunters squad.
“Coming this far is one of my greatest achievement and just like any rugby player I hope to wear that PNG Kumuls jersey in the future,” he said.
“Overall, I have learnt a lot during this short time and would like to share that experience with young boys back in my village because anything is possible if we set our minds to it.”