Wavik pursuing dream to enter NRL, represent PNG

WHILE this year’s Hastings Deering Colts Under 21 premiership is Ragarive Wavik’s immediate goal with the Townsville Blackhawks, he wants to one-day play in the NRL and further to that, represent Papua New Guinea on the international stage.
The Blackhawks will face Brisbane Tigers in the grand final on Saturday and the Port Moresby-born fullback wants to rewrite the history.
He was part of the Townsville team last year that claimed a 46-32 grand final win over the Redcliffe Dolphins and scored two tries.
Wavik is currently contracted to North Queensland Cowboys but has been bidding his time in the Blackhawks’ Under-21 and Hostplus Cup sides while waiting for opportunity in the first grade.
“My dad and most of my family live in Port Moresby,” said Wavik, who is from Central and Sepik.
“They still follow my rugby league journey. They’re diehard fans. As soon as I signed for Cowboys, my whole village was flooded with Cowboys jerseys.
“It’s really important I’m still connected to them because it’s where I’m from. I’d definitely love to represent my country one day.
“That’s a big one in my books. I know Kyle Laybutt has represented PNG and I’m lucky to know him in person so I want to follow his steps.
“I also want to crack the NRL and debut for the club and solidify my spot in the NRL.”
But for now, Wavik is focused on this Saturday’s grand final. Given his form in the U21 competition this season, the 20-year-old is in line for Prime Minister’s 13 or even Kumuls call-up in the international fixtures next month.