Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
This is one of his favourite memory verses, and a great motivation that has kept him focused on his goals. Especially his dream of representing Papua New Guinea in the ICC U19 Men’s World Cup.
The 18-year-old has found sports as an avenue to keep him active and disciplined. Having been playing cricket for four years now, Junior says he dreamt of playing in the world cup and when that opportunity came to try out, he gave it his all. In fact, he says, ‘mi pilai long wanpla niupla ragbi tim tasol mi kam aut and joined cricket because of the world cup.’ [I was a part of a new rugby team, but I had to come out…]
Being young and determined to pursue his dreams came from a lot of encouragement from people around.
‘Femili, na frens blo mi, na ol bikpla ol players tu ol givim gutpla toktok lo mi. Ol tok: discipline yourself and you will become a good person.’ [My family, friends and even the senior players gave me great advice. They told me: discipline yourself…]
Junior really has come a long way, especially after completing grade 8 and seeking alternatives for a brighter future for himself. With all the invaluable advice and inspiration around him he was motivated. ‘Role model blong mi long kriket em Norman Vanua ya bikos long bowling techniques blong em.’ [My role model in cricket is Norman Vanua because of his bowling techniques.] He adds, another person he looks up to is his older brother who represented PNG in va’a.
‘Mi hamamas,’ [I’m excited] he says about his first time leaving the country and his debut in the upcoming World Cup tour. The young Hanuabada bowler urges his teammates to ‘work hard and sacrifice ourselves to play for our country and families’. He also thanks them and his coaches for the training and support leading up to the World Cup.