The Under 17 trial match that took place today at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium marks a significant milestone as the inaugural event for the National Capital Schools Rugby League (NCDSRL) competition. According to NCDSRL President Arnold Gende, the current roster of 40 students will be reduced to an 18-member squad that will travel to Cairns in November to compete against St Trinity Bay State High School. “The boys will play a social match with Trinity Bay State High School and we will be selecting eighteen (18) of the best players to travel down to Cairns from the 17-18th, November. This all made possible through the Moni Plus NDCD Port Moresby Vipers and the NCD Governors office.” The air fairs will be met by NCDC and the accommodation in Cairns will be met by the St Trinity Bay State High School, said Gende. Mr. Gende stated that this pathway provides an excellent opportunity for the boys to demonstrate their talents and potentially attract the attention of scouts in Australia. The selection of all 40 boys in the NCDSRL competition was conducted in accordance with the NCDSRL benchmark policy, which requires a minimum of 60% academic performance and the verification of age through birth certificates. “Straight after completing the selections for the 40 boys, we will send through the names to the Vipers management so they can start working on their passports and apply for their visas.” “We also hope to create and cement that relationship with Trinity when we travel down so it becomes and annual event, some form of cultural exchange program.” The NCDSRL also plans to host Trinity Bay if they plan to visit and show them the diverse culture of PNG. He further stated that they are looking forward to form a girls team by next year to take part and expose their talents as well.