Yoka making strides

The National Sports

By BENJAMIN KOITAKA
PAPUA New Guinea Hunters training squad member Justin Yoka has his sights set on making the final cut, despite not playing a single game in the Digicel Cup.
The 20-year-old, from Yungili village in Pangia, Southern Highlands, was plucked straight from the national zone championships and thrown in the deep end with an eye to please coach Michael Marum.
Yoka, who weighs 84kg and stands at 174cm, is one of 32 players vying for a spot in the Hunters final squad for the Queensland Intrust Super Cup season.
But unlike most of the players, Yoka is yet to make his debut in the country’s premier rugby league competition.
“Coming into the Hunters programme straight from the national zone championships has really boosted my career in rugby league,” the specialist five-eighth said. “I played at five-eighth for the Highlands zone side and for Team Southern Highlands.
“I can’t say I’m ready for the Hunters No.6 jumper because there are others here who are much more experienced than me.
“I’m just concentrating on giving my best at training every day,” he said.
“It’s almost 10 weeks since I’ve been here with the Hunters.
“Like others, I to make the final squad and play for Hunters. But at the end of the day, it is up to the coach to decide who makes the cut.” Yoka said despite having no experience at the semi-professional level, he was enjoying his time with the Hunters and learning as much as he can.
“I want to wear the No.6 jumper for the Hunters and I’m really committed about it,” he said.
“If I don’t make the final squad, hopefully I can get called up by one of the franchises in the Digicel Cup.
“My aim for the next five years is to stay healthy and play good football.
“Since rugby league is one of my favourite sport, I want to play at the highest level possible and the Hunters are the perfect platform to realise that dream.
“I encourage youths to stay away from illicit activities and take up sports.
“My sporting career started some few years back and I can see good things happening for me through sports.
“I thank my parents and people back at home for their support and prayers.”