Wigmen to play in Sepik 9s

By PATRICIA KEAMO
DIGICEL Cup franchise Hela Wigmen will field a team in the Sepik Agmark Nines rugby league tournament at Wewak’s Pora Oval this weekend.
Wigmen chief executive Patrick Wundai told The National that preparations for the team — to be called Kroton Wigmen — were going well.
“The purpose of fielding a team in the Agmark Nines is part of our support to Sepik Pride who are re-bidding for a spot in the Digicel Cup next year,” he said.
“The team comprise mostly players from our extended bench and development squad.
“We have the former head trainer and current team manager, Seth Rip, assisting our coaching team.
“A few of our senior players will be part of the team while there’ll be a few new faces.
“One is from Port Moresby Rugby Football League club Kone Tigers and another player is from the University of Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League.”
Wundai said the Wigmen had registered for the inaugural tournament last year, but they were unable to take part due to other commitments.
“After the Sepik Nines, we have other offseason tournaments, including the National Capital District Governor’s Cup and Justin Tkatchenko Nines, in which we have expressed interest to compete,” he said.
“We are working closely with (Sepik rugby league project manager) Bradly Simon to arrange travel, logistics and accommodation for our team.
“It is anticipated to be an exciting trip to Wewak for our players who have never been to that part of the country.
“I held discussions with Simon on some social and educational rugby league programmes.
“We might spend a day to do community awareness before kick-off. But all these are subject to change, depending on the Coronavirus situation there.”