The Capital Rugby Union (CRU) President Kori Chan remains focused on developmental and representative objectives for the upcoming months ahead, as the 2025 Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) season advances.
When interviewed by PNG HAUSBUNG on Saturday 24th May 2025, Mr. Chan reaffirmed CRU’s commitment to rebuilding representative rugby while strengthening community engagement through strategic planning.
“We want to strengthen our referee base and run coaching and player clinics. These are planned for the coming weeks.”
“We ran our rep program last year. This year we’re aiming for the same,” Chan stated.
The Rugby Union administrator’s plan to feature teams such as the Boromas, Gargais, Magias, and Hananamu, across both the Open and Under-20 divisions for men and women. These teams not only foster elite development but also build pathways for aspiring athletes.
A key highlight is the prospective end-of-season fixtures against Morobe and Daru, which remain dependent on budget and venue logistics.
“Whether we do it in Daru, Lae, or here in Port Moresby, we’re working on that. But we need to keep those provincial competitions alive,” said Mr. Chan.
These inter-provincial clashes are instrumental in driving high-level performance and regional pride.
Efforts are also underway to enhance female participation. Proposals include shifting Under-20 matches to Pomis Field to make space for Open Women’s games at Bava Park, reuniting families and enhancing crowd engagement.
“The women bring families with them, and it helps build that community atmosphere again,” Chan explained.
Chan emphasized the need to maintain rugby during tough national times, citing its importance as an emotional and social outlet for youth.
“There are a lot of kids who depend on rugby… It’s how they express themselves,” he said.
According to Mr. Chan, CRU is reinforcing its role not just as a rugby competition, but as a transformative force in the lives of young Papua New Guineans.