PNG KUMUL #166 will be the new Coach Development Manager for Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League The announcement of his appointment was made by the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) in a statement this week. PNGRFL is proud to announce that they have secured the services of Mr Stanley Gene to continue the development of rugby league in Papua New Guinea. Gene's outstanding playing career includes playing for Goroka Lahanis in 1993-94 and the former Lae Bombers the following year. He then played over 350 games in the English Super League and First Division competition in a career spanning over 17 years at top level Rugby League. He represented the PNG Kumuls in 16 Test Matches including 3 World Cups. Following his retirement, he moved into coaching and was the head coach of Gateshead Thunder and Assistant Coach at Hull KR to the Super League team. He was also the Head Coach of Hull KR Academy team. Gene’s immediate focus in the new role will be to support all Digicel ExxonMobil Cup coaches in the 2025 season. He will create a Talent Identification Program for coaches across the country, and the program will focus on coaches who are identified and want to progress into all the club pathways programs and beyond. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina highlighted that with Mr Gene returning from England to help grow and develop the game is another wonderful step forward for PNG. “As a player who had such a distinguished playing career and represented our country with pride, having him back in the country and available to serve at the PNGRFL is a great opportunity.” “His recent experience in coaching in the Super League and Academy programs will be of great benefit to our clubs,” said Hondina. “As we continue to drive to improve the game, the importance of coaching at Youth, Santos Cup and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup level is critical.” Also speaking during the official announcement of his appointment Mr Gene thanked the PNGRFL for giving him the opportunity to come and work with the team who had done so much in bringing Rugby League to the next level. “I am very passionate about rugby league as this game gave me the opportunity to fulfil my dreams in playing and now coaching.” “To be given the opportunity of helping and giving back to our local coaches is something I am very excited about, and I cannot wait to get out to the clubs and start.”