SP PNG Hunters player Joel Gena admits that adapting to the fast pace and high skill level of top-tier rugby league has been one of his greatest challenges but believes the experience has helped him grow as a player.
“At first it was hard,” Gena said. “Coming into the SP Hunters was very different.”
“Compared to the Digicel ExxonMobil (DEM) Cup, the DEM Cup was a bit slower, but Hunters was fast and required a lot of technique and skill.”
“Those first few weeks were tough, but I’ve adapted as the season progressed.”
Gena, known for his skill and versatility in the halves, began his rugby league journey at a young age while attending Pomona Primary School, where he played schoolboys rugby from Grade 3 before progressing to off-season competitions with Pomona Rugby League.
His club career took a significant step forward in 2019 when he joined Tarangau, debuting in the under-20s competition.
After playing five games, he was promoted to A Grade under then-coach Humphrey Begara.
“He saw potential in me and gave me the opportunity to play A Grade and that really helped my development.”
In 2020, Gena was selected into the Port Moresby Vipers.
Although sidelined by a wrist injury in 2021, he returned stronger and made his Vipers debut in 2022 after being taken on as an academy player in 2021.
That same year, he celebrated success winning the Southern Super League Grand Final.
Gena continued to feature in the under-By-Pass squad during the 2023 and 2024 seasons before earning further opportunities in 2025, including selection for Antas in the Grand Final.
Looking ahead, Gena has clear goals for his rugby league career.
“My number one goal is to learn as much as I can.”
“My second goal is to make the final cut for 2026, and my third goal is to secure a spot in the best 17.”
“If I am given the chance to play, I will do my best to make my team, my province and my country proud.”
The young playmaker credits senior teammates Jamie Mavoko and Jos Mire for helping him develop his game.
“I have learned a lot from them,” Gena said. “They have been around the system for a long time.”
“I talk to them whenever I have ideas or questions. Jos especially helps me with kicking, short-side and long-side play, and defensive positioning.”
Meanwhile, Gena also reflected on his decision to leave POM Vipers and join the Lae Snax Tigers; a move he says pushed him beyond his comfort zone.
“The Vipers were really good, but I had been there for a long time, and nothing was happening.”
“I decided to leave my comfort zone and join the Tigers. It was a good test for me, the first time I stepped out and challenged myself.”
Off the field, Gena’s journey has been shaped by a challenging upbringing.
He grew up in the out scats of Port Moresby-9mile Bomana turn-off, an environment he describes as tough, with many social challenges.
“Growing up there was not easy as they were a lot of negative influences. I give all credit to my parents as they taught me well and kept me on the right path.”
Gena says rugby league played a major role in changing his life and giving him direction, and he remains especially proud of his mother’s strength and support throughout his journey.
As he continues to develop within the SP PNG Hunters system, Gena remains focused on learning, improving, and making the most of every opportunity that comes his way.
