In a moment of national pride that bridges tradition with the world through sport, His Excellency Governor General Sir Bob Dadae officially announced East New Britain as the host province for the 2026 Commonwealth Games King’s Baton Relay.Speaking at the prestigious KBR Reception hosted by the PNG Olympic Committee, Sir Dadae declared at the British High Commission on Thursday, November 20th, 2025, The event was attended by the NCD Governor Powes Parkop, ENB Governor Michael Marum, Minister for Sports Feo Kinoka, PNGOC President Emma Waiwai, and British High Commissioner Anne Marco and distinguished guests. “The King's Baton Relay is far more than a ceremonial journey,” he stated. “It is a symbol of unity, friendship and shared purpose among the 74 nations and territories of the Commonwealth.” The 2026 event carries historic weight for PNG, marking the first time the Baton will arrive on the nation’s shores during the reign of His Majesty King Charles III. Reflecting on his own role in receiving the Baton in 2022, the Governor General emphasized its significance as a moment for national reflection. “It allows us to stand proudly on the world stage and showcase the diversity and the richness that makes our country unique,” Sir Bob told attendees. The choice of East New Britain as the host province focuses on its vibrant cultural heritage, as the Baton journeys through its villages and districts next year, it is expected to ignite a nationwide spirit of collaboration and willingness. The Governor General called on all sectors of government, sporting bodies, and civil society groups to embrace the opportunity to promote healthy lifestyles and national unity. Moreover, Sir Dadae proudly honoured PNG’s sporting heroes such as, Ryan Pini, Dika Toua, Steven Kari, and Geua Tau, praising their Commonwealth Games success as proof that discipline, and dedication build national pride and character. In an emotive conclusion, the Governor General cast a vision for the future, expressing hope that another province would host the Relay in 2030. “Go with courage, go with pride, and know that the entire nation stands behind you.” The announcement sets the stage for East New Britain to become the beating heart of a national celebration, as PNG prepares to carry the message of the King’s Baton forward.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup Founder Mr. Jeffery Kennedy commended the PNG Sports Foundation (SF) for the tremendous support and approval in the KCK RRC Season-2 Competition.Speaking at the Launching conference, Founder and Rigo Rice Managing Director, Mr. Kennedy acknowledged and extended his deep gratitude to the PNGSF. “PNG Sports Foundation has been very supportive, and I congratulate them for that,” he said. Despite the KCK RRC receiving criticisms, he highlighted PNGSF’s recognition and support in the KCK RRC season-1 and now in season-2, as a firm support to their competition alongside other sanctioned rugby league competitions in PNG. “Season-1 was just to show this is a genuine competition, and we genuinely want to help the Grassroots.” “Not everybody can make it to the NRL or Digicel Cup or whatever league. Those who have talent but face a lack of space or chance, Rigo Rice Cup is for them,” said Mr. Kennedy.Mr. Kennedy supported KCK RRC CEO Mr. Polly to a stronger, stricter and thrilling season with five (5) legs and 20 teams each to compete. Moreover, Mr. Kennedy said season-2 will deliver live-digital broadcasting of the matches from aerial to station visuals. He stated the live visuals can boost opportunity for international selection. “We hope that people out whether in Australia, Europe, Japan, France or wherever they are, if they need players then Rigo Rice Cup, we’ve got players.” He emphasized that the live streaming will be used as a platform to market the grassroots talents to the international semi and professional Leagues. He pointed out to the players own talent will sell themselves to international leagues. Furthermore, he pointed out to the recent season which boosted players recognition into the Digicel Cup and emphasized the authenticity of the league to deliver second chances, in a rugby league career.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup has declared a whopping K500,000 cash prize in 2025-2026 Season-2 for the Top 4 winning teams.This was announced by KCK Rigo Rice Cup Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. McSteve Polly at the Season-2 Launching pressing conference in Port Moresby city on Friday 21st November at the Night Breeze Club. In addition, five (5) legs of the competition have been confirmed. They will progress until the top 3 finalists from each of the legs progress to compete for the half a million-prize money. Speaking alongside Mr. Polly, KCK Rigo Rice Cup founder and Rigo Rice Managing Director Mr. Jeffery Kennedy emphasized the priority to player well-being, especially financial stability through pursuing a grand final title and prize money. Acknowledging the first successful seasons, Mr. Kennedy was pleased to support the increase in prize money. He highlighted that the purpose was due to the weak recognition of players and management efforts during preparations. “I believe the way to nourish talents and encourage young boys to bring out their best is to reward them accordingly,” he said. “This is why Rigo Rice Cup has stepped-up to put the prize money, to encourage raw talent to grow.” “I believe if you make rewards less, you discourage them.” He said a shallow reward is not enough to promote or comfort players or management in the long run. He underlined that this low-amount rewards cannot be sufficient to truly add value to their reality. “I believe the prize money is more than enough to give a good start to pursue their goals or invest opportunity they are interested in.” “That’s the Main Reason why Rigo Rice has stepped up.”

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. McSteve Polly has announced a stricter bylaw in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup (RRC) for season-2, including a hefty fine from teams or supporters that influence match decisions. Mr. Polly made this announcement when asked about new developments in the KCK RRC S-2 competition at the official Season-2 launching press conference at the Night Breeze Club in Port Moresby city on Friday 21st November 2025. “We’ll be tightening competition bylaws for Season-2,” he announced.Acknowledging the inappropriate behavior in Season-1 from participant to influence match decisions, Mr. Polly simply explained that players or supporters who assault match officials, especially the referees will be fined K10,000, to eliminate inappropriate behavior and set boundaries to team's or player’s influence in match decisions. Moreover, Mr. Polly highlighted the significant concerns of incomplete team registrations, including the idea of reusing same players to join or join multiple teams. He pointed the gap in player fairness, including the fair participation of Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Players due their high match fitness than average grassroots talent. Meanwhile, M. Polly remains confident in player opportunity following positive feedback from a respected agency that works with PNG’s International reps including Elsie Albert and Nixon Put. Mr. Polly shared a potential junior pathway with the support of former PNG International Rodney Griffin. Furthermore, Mr. Poly stressed the authenticity of each development as arrangements and direction are being engaged with the correct high profile individuals, rather than seeking second hand proposals.

The KCK Rigo Rice Cup (RRC) officially launched its 2025-2026 Season 2, marking a significant expansion of one of Central Province’s fastest-growing community grassroots sports competitions. The competition will officially commence on Saturday, November 29, 2025, kicking off a five-month season that runs through to April 26, 2026. This extended window is designed to promote rural talent pathways and broaden participation across multiple age groups from communities both within and outside Central Province. KCK RRC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. McSteve Polly and Rigo Rice Managing Director Mr. Jeffery Kennedy, the Founder and Major Sponsor, were pleased to launch Season 2 at the Night Breeze Club among representatives from the 20 teams registered for Leg 1. The League aims to establish itself as a well-structured grassroots development platform for young athletes across Central Province and the National Capital District (NCD), Port Moresby. Meanwhile, CEO Mr. Polly announced two additional development programs to run simultaneously to the main competition, with the purpose of allowing younger players early exposure to disciplined, competitive rugby. An Under-12 and Under-14 tournament and a dedicated boxing tournament both scheduled from December 2025 to February 2026, to run parallel the same period, expanding the event beyond rugby league and offering alternative pathways for youth who show promise in combat sports. Furthermore, Mr. Polly confirmed the live streaming of season 2 for an effective accessible season, from the first leg through to the cup finals. This decision is expected to increase visibility for rural athletes while uniting community engagement and create a digital journey for emerging talent. As the KCK Rigo Rice Cup enters its second season, the competition continues to transform into more than just a sporting competition, but a growing community foundation where youth exercise discipline, local pride, and passion in a game that promotes a healthy lifestyle in and off the field.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) officially announced and welcomed the King's Baton Relay (KBR) at a formal reception, at the British High Commissioner’s residence, Port Moresby on Thursday 20th November 2025.PNGOC President Mrs. Emma Waiwai formally announced the upcoming KBR as an enduring symbol of the Commonwealth Games, attended by Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, Minister for Sports Feo Kinoka MP, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, ENB Governor Michael Marum, and British High Commissioner Anne Marco and distinguished guests. Mrs. Waiwai underscored the profound significance of the relay for Papua New Guinea, describing the baton as a powerful connector. “Each time the baton touches our shores, it reconnects us to the Commonwealth family and affirms our standing within a global community.” Mrs. Waiwai highlighted that the relay is more than a tradition but at a platform to showcase the nation’s character. She announced that the baton will journey through a selected province in January 2026. “Everywhere it goes, it will highlight the unique spirit of our people, our resilience, our cultural richness, our generosity and our deep love for sport.” Mrs. Waiwai emphasized the message the relay sends to the next generation, pointing to the Commonwealth Games as a stage where PNG athletes have historically excelled. “The King's Baton carries with it a message for our young people that their dreams can take them anywhere,” She concluded by thanking government and corporate partners for their support, ensuring the relay experience in PNG will be both successful and meaningful. The event solidified the nation's readiness to celebrate this symbol of sport and unity as it looks ahead to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, Canada.

The Minister for Sports Feo Kinoka described the King's Baton Relay (KBR) as a vital beacon to grassroots opportunity and a bond connecting Papua New Guinea (PNG) to the world.In honor of the Commonwealth Sport and the KBR in PNG, Minister Kinoka made these remarks at the official KBR launch at the British High Commissioner's residency in Port Moresby city on Thursday 20th November 2025. Minister Kinoka emphasized that the baton's significance extends far beyond a ceremonial tradition. He explained that while it carries a message from the monarch, its deeper purpose is to unite nations. “The men and women who train with discipline, sacrifice and extraordinary resilience… many do so with limited resources,” he said. "The King's Baton carries with it a message from His Majesty King Charles III," the Minister stated. "But it also carries something deeper: the spirit of connection that links Papua New Guinea to the wider Commonwealth family in a way that transcends geography, language and culture." He further articulated that the relay serves as a mobile showcase for the nation as it journeys through the provinces. He directly addressed the nation’s young people, framing sport as a vital pathway. “The King's Baton Relay is a symbol of opportunity,” Kinoka stated. “It tells you that sport can open doors, doors to leadership, education, discipline and global connection.” According to Minister Kinoka, the KBR will actively highlight the diversity, beauty, character and most importantly, the sporting achievements of the nation.The address firmly positioned the relay as a key instrument that inspires and celebrates talent, a symbol of international diplomacy and a source of national pride for Papua New Guinea. The ceremony was graced by Governor General Sir Bob Dadae, PNGOC President Mrs. Emma Waiwai, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, ENB Governor Michael Marum and British High Commissioner Anne Marco and India High Commissioner Rajeev Kumar.

The Port Moresby Soccer Association (PMSA) brought its 2025 season to a dramatic close on Sunday, 16 November, with a Grand Final day at Bisini Soccer oval that reflected both the grit of resilient grassroots and loud corporate communities on Sunday 16th November 2025.With the entire day of five grand finalist matches from sponsored and self-sponsored teams, PMSA Competition Coordinator Peter Mathew when interviewed by PNG HAUSBUNG, described the afternoon as “the end point of a journey every club fought hard for.” Despite the continuous wet weather showing dark clouds of rain throughout the entire day, the competition took off without delay slowly completing each division grand final. Speaking after the completion of the three grand final matches from the youth division, Mr. Mathew emphasized the spirit of resilience and commitment embodied by the youth teams as they played their hearts out to compete for victory. The day opened with the Under-19 (U-19-Youth) Division, where Keleiruna FC toppled Momase in a spirited match, claiming the U-19 Division Title. “The boys from Kele Runa defeated Momase to claim the under-19 division title,” said Mathew, noting the impressive development coming from youth clubs. The men’s Division-Two final saw Defence FC seal their victory over Rigo’s Floaters FC, a small but determined club travelling all the way from inland Rigo to compete. “Floaters came all the way from the village just to take part, and making it as far as the grand final,” he said, noting their promotion to Division One next year. Meanwhile, Division-One delivered the day’s biggest thriller. Keleiruna FC and Bismarck FC were locked at 2–2 at full-time, unable to break the deadlock in extra minutes. In a tense penalty shootout, Bismarck FC triumphed 4–2. “That game was very tough. Every grand final really ends up testing all the boundaries of competition.” Moreover, Mr. Mathew expressed his deep gratitude to the competition management for a successful season finale. He emphasized that the day was a celebration of the quiet labour, the unseen efforts from administrators, families and volunteers, especially the grounds men. “These are the guys that at the end of the day, you come and enjoy your game and go. My staff are on the ground maintaining the field where players come and play,” he said. With new sponsors stepping in, including Vodafone PNG and 2U Network Limited, Mathew trusts the association is building momentum.

The Port Moresby Soccer Association Competition Coordinator Peter Mathew, says the 2025 PMSA Grand Final wasn’t just a competition, it was a logistical test requiring disciplined planning, decision-making and targeted development encouragements to keep players and teams encouraged from the knockout rounds till the final whistle.When asked by PNG HAUSBUNG about preparations for PMSA and Team Management, Mr. Mathew shared the concept of compensating teams and players adequately for their precious time and resources spent to prepare, whether sponsored or self-sponsored. Moreover, the PMSA Sponsors have also set a new benchmark with Major Sponsor Vodafone PNG contributing K150,000, while 2U Network limited supported the Women’s Premier Division. “A big credit goes back to Vodafone PNG for coming on board, from day one up till today,” Mathew said. Mr. Mathew emphasized on the entire K150,000 support from Vodafone was allocated adequately into the cash-prizes for each category and division, giving back to the teams and players for fair reward for their participation and hard work throughout the 2025 season.  Mr. Mathew highlighted how luck often decided outcomes between winners and near-winners in the five divisions. To ease this pressure, PMSA boosted financial support by securing major sponsors, which increased prize money. He noted this funding revived teams and strongly motivated both players and management to sustain themselves.  “Those are the clubs that from their own pocket money came on board,” he stated. “We have to appreciate them… by dishing out some of our money just to have a maximum of one.” In addition, He stressed the on the value of the new initiative, the ‘Man of the Match’ award for Grand Finals only that has already influenced player behaviour. “Players will see that a particular lady or man is getting that award… maybe next time I should improve myself and go for that award,” Mathew explained. “As a responsibility within the competition department, I have put this through.”

Among the standout moments in the Solomon Islands’ victory over PNG Red in the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup on Saturday 15TH November, was the commanding performance of Alma Gogony, the team’s dynamic No. 7, whom Solomon Islands (SI) head coach Daniel Barret described as an emerging force in pacific football.Coach Barret spoke with visible pride and respect about the No.7 Gogony when interviewed by PNG HAUSBUNG on Saturday 15th November 2025.   “She’s very fast, but very smart,” he said. “She makes lots of breaks, but she doesn’t just cross the ball. She looks; she uses her eyes and picks out the right player.” Her intelligence on and off the ball set her apart in a match dominated by tactical discipline. Barret highlighted her two-way commitment as a defining trait. “Not only is she skillful and fast, but she is a hard worker. She chases back, defend, and she help when we attack.” According to the coach, Gogony’s potential extends far beyond the tournament. “Very big future, this girl,” he said, emphasizing that her game sense and discipline are rare qualities at her age. Her presence provided the Solomon Islands with constant attacking options, and her defensive work-rate cemented the team’s stability on transitions — a crucial factor against a PNG side known for their counterattacking pace. Barret said the team’s belief in the “process” allowed talents like Gogony to shine. “When players trust what we do, it gives space for individuals to express themselves with confidence.” As the Solomon Islands prepare to face Fiji, Gogony’s breakout performance positions her as one of the most promising young players to watch in the MSG competition.

Solomon Islands head coach Daniel Barret credited tactical clarity, discipline, and unwavering commitment to team processes for his squad’s 2–0 win over the PNG Women’s Red Squad at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium on Saturday.Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, Coach Barret said the match hinged on his players’ ability to control “first and second ball,” a factor he identified early in his analysis of PNG’s previous performance. “We saw PNG hurt Fiji by winning those moments,” he said. “So, we came in knowing we had to be sharp, aggressive, and consistent.” The Solomon Islands created several chances in the first half but failed to convert. Still, Barret highlighted their composure and belief as the key turning point. “We kept our heads up. First half we did not score, but second half we stayed positive — and the goals came.” The coach praised his defensive line for shutting down PNG’s counterattacks, a threat they had specifically prepared for. “We worry PNG Red catch us on counter,” he noted. “But the girls stayed switched on, always watching the ball, and they kept PNG to zero.” According to Barret, the team’s mental anchor was simple: trust the game plan. “We have processes in certain moments of the game, we do A, B, and C. Even at nil-nil, the girls didn’t change. They stuck to it.” With only a day to recover before facing Fiji, he emphasized discipline off the field as well. “Tomorrow is about recovery and getting the bodies healthy. Fiji is a totally different opponent.” Coach Barret ended by praising PNG’s football culture, describing the atmosphere as uplifting. “I love it because they love football, and I love football.”

Fiji’s National Women’s Team Head Coach Angeline Chua expressed her delight in participating in the first ever Melanesian Spearhead Group Primes Minister’s Cup against the Papua New Guinea’s Development Squad at the Sir John Guise Stadium this week.Speaking at the first post-match conference, Coach Chua gracefully applaud Papua New Guinea’s Development squad for a strong performance that tested their ability and resilience on Monday 11th November, although Fiji found victory in the second half with a 2-1 win. In addition, she acknowledged PNG’s effort in enrolling two teams despite short notice. The second team which Fiji initially defeated. “Big congratulation to PNG for filling two teams.”   “Good show up to the second team that give us a hard fight.” Coach Chua further emphasized the tireless effort behind the scenes work needed to keep up with the standard of the Oceania Region. “In the Oceania Region the level has been rising. Of course, we have to work even harder in term of our attacking and defending aspect.” Moreover, Coach Chua identify a flaw in the Fiji Kulas and the effort to eliminate it. “One the weakness we have is finishing in front of the goal.” “We’ve been trying to tackle this; it’s a working progress.”