Warupi: 2012 has been a good year

Normal, Sports
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The National, Tuesday 18th September, 2012

THE change in spectator behavior has been hailed as a key ingredient to the success of the 2012 Digicel Cup season.
PNG National Rugby League general manager Hubert Warupi yesterday applauded supporters and fans for the spirit they turned out to support their teams in, and this had directly resulted in the atmosphere that is slowly being returned to rugby league.
“It’s a good feeling at the games when you look up the grandstands and see more families, females, expatriates and corporate bodies coming to watch the games,” Warupi said.
“A bigger reason for the change can be attributed to the change in the mindset of spectators, and better understanding of the rules.
“I extend my real appreciation to the supporters who support with a lot of passion and that’s all.  Violence and aggression is moving out in the sport.”
 Warupi admitted things could be better, and that the PNGNRL had was conducting a review of its management certain areas of the competition.
He added that besides the need for a strong judiciary and match review committee, the biggest hurdle in 2012 had been referees.
“The national referees association needs more young referees who are able to competently manage games. 
“It does a lot for the standard and quality of our games,” Warupi said.