The New Ireland Provincial Government is embarking on a mission now to create a sporting body that will oversee different sporting codes within the province.
Provincial Administrator Mr. Richard Andia revealed this recently (May 11, 2025) during the launch of the Kunanoka (Kuat, Nalik, Notsi, Kara) Sports Association at Bol village along the Boluminski highway, which is about 93.6 kilometres from the provincial capital, Kavieng.
“Under the leadership of our governor and sporting hero Walter Schnaubelt, we have finalized a constitution of the sporting body, and it will go before the next Provincial Executive Council (PEC) meeting for its endorsement.”
“All sporting codes in the province will now come under one umbrella called the New Ireland Sports Authority (NISPA),” he revealed.
During the launching Mr. Coleman Tamsak Special Political Advisor to Governor Walter, on behalf of Walter made a presentation of K10,000 funding from the governor’s office towards KSA.
Mr. Tamsak upon presenting the funds stated that the youth engagement in sports helps develop teamwork, discipline, and leadership skills while providing a constructive outlet for energy.
The launching was also witnessed by New Ireland Governor Walter Schnaubelt’s special political advisor, Coleman Tamsak, Sentral Niu Ailan President Ben Sakbua and the office staff.Further yet Provincial Administrator also highlighted that NISPA will play a crucial role in promoting and developing sports within the province.
“This authority is responsible for overseeing various sports activities, ensuring that facilities are available, and fostering participation at all levels, from grassroots to elite athletes.”
“In doing so, we will maintain existing venues like the Kavieng stadium and potentially develop new ones such as the Konos and Namatanai stadiums to meet international standards as well as the needs of various sports disciplines,” he highlighted also.
He further stated the authority will work closely with national governing bodies for different sports to align local initiatives with national strategies to help secure funding and resources necessary for development.
Andia also announced that New Ireland will be sending a rugby team to compete in the semi-professional rugby league competition, the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup next year which has the backing of Governor Schnaubelt.
He said Kavieng stadium has met all requirements by PNG Sports Commission and PNG Rugby Football League to host Digicel Cup games as well in the future.
With PNG Games to be held in November this year, Andia said preparation is currently underway to get the New Ireland team to participate at the games in Southern Highlands province.