PNG Palais representative Cynthia Peters has nothing but encouragement for the young upcoming girls in rugby and wants to see them excel in the sport like she has.
“It’s all about being patient, being committed, working hard and disciplining yourself on and off the field as well,” she said.
In an interview with PNG HAUSBUNG, the 25-year old PNG Palais 7s representative said coming from humble beginnings can make a great impact in one’s life.
Growing up in the small village in East New Britain Province called Ratung, Cynthia Peters has proven herself to be someone who is passionate and has always worked hard to be where she is now-as a part of the PNG Palais 7s team.
Ms. Peters stated that she started playing in 2014 when rugby union was introduced to her primary school through the Pacific in Union program (now the Get-Into-Rugby program) and immediately fell in love with the sport.
“I represented team East New Britain in the 2014 PNG Games in Lae, Morobe province,” said stated.
“I was really eager to play because the tackling motivated me to play and I knew that if I could do the tackling then I could do whatever a man playing rugby can do too. It’s all about strength and power.”
“I completed my grade 8 at Pilapila primary school in the Rabaul district, and continued my grade 9 at Malaguna Technical Secondary (Maltech).”
Despite having school fee problems in 2017 and withdrawing from secondary,
Unfortunately, she could not complete school in 2017 due to school issues. She withdrew from secondary education, but she continued to play rugby and that helped to develop her talents and skills as a rugby player.
She highlighted that it felt like a dream come true to be a part of the squad and make the final Palais team for Oceania, the Pacific Games and the challenger series in Dubai.
“I’m working hard to making the team again for the Uruguay 7s, which I know it will not come easy.”
“I’m looking forward to training hard and working on having the game knowledge, talent and skills to secure my spot.”
Meanwhile, Peters stated that she hopes to be a good role model and leader to the young ones coming up in rugby union.
“To the young ones who have started playing, my advice is that don’t give up yet. Because there is a time for everything and your turn will come.”