The New Ireland Province Drongos 7’s team have received a sizeable boost from the New Ireland Provincial Government, as they prepare themselves for the 2023 Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited Super 7’s series. A total of K100, 000 was granted to the team recently to assist them in taking part in the final 2 legs of the tournament.
The New Ireland Rugby Football Union Inc. [NIRFU] have expressed great appreciation for the kind gesture shown by the NIPG that will now see the participation of the Drongos in the Remainder of the KPHL Series. NIRFU President Charlie Melachon stated that the 4 regional series, having completed in Mt. Hagen and Lae extends to the New Guinea Islands and Southern Regions in July, and will be held respectively in East New Britain and Port Moresby, according to PNG Rugby Union.
“NIRFU assures NIPG that apart from efforts creating a conducive socializing avenue driving positive attitude changes on and off the field, promoting equal gender participation is paramount.”
Melachon added that NIRFU has assembled its first ever female rugby rep side to participate in the upcoming Super 7s series third leg in Rabaul. He said the NIRFU is bridging the gap between young people and the business community that are involved directly or indirectly with Rugby Union for possible Education and Employment pathways.
“NIRFU is promoting and reaching out to the wider youth communities to get involved in creating awareness on issues affecting communities including Alcohol, Gender Based Violence and Stigma.”
“We believe the approach is two ways positively influencing our playing populace becoming productive members of the community.”
The president acknowledged and appreciated the support given and looks forward to a continued partnership with all stakeholders, as well encouraging young people to be actively involved in Rugby Union here in New Ireland Province.
“Indeed, the primary aim of our existence is to build the sport and provide the avenue that harnesses potential talents to excel in representative duties, but we need a bi partisan approach that utilizes the sport to be key partners and advocators to the government’s policies.”
He added that the NIRFU believe this partnership serves to improve key indicators of the NIPG and drive the province under the leadership of Governor Sir Julius Chan.