Some of the best young talent in the country will be on display at the NRL Bid Academy Tournament taking place in Goroka over the weekend of the 20th to 21st July. The tournament will be an opportunity for Academy players to compete over 2 days and showcase their skills to the world. Players to watch out for include: Goroka Hercules Kondo (Men’s U19, Fullback) A local player from Asaro, which is home to the renowned Goroka Mudmen, Hercules has impressed all judges with his power and speed. Possessing an excellent rugby league IQ, his height makes him exceptional under the high ball. Ukere Sabumei (Women’s U18, Fullback) Ukere, was brought up around the game of rugby league, with her father being the first indigenous coach of the PNG Kumuls. She is an outstanding defender who has shown the ability to create opportunities for others through her all-round vision and game management. Mt. Hagen Steven Hiwi (Men’s U19, Dummy Half/Hooker) Hailing from Tari in the Hela Province, Steven is one of the brightest prospects in the game, despite the fact that he is only in Year 11 at school. Steven has already shown outstanding leadership qualities which has resulted in him being named as the current captain of the PNG under 19 team. He will look to lead from the front at this tournament. McKelly Dencil (Women’s U18, Outside Back) A student at Hagen Park Secondary School, McKelly has speed to burn and has continually shown the ability to break tackles through her explosive running. McKelly, looks to inspire her team-mates through her actions on the field and will be looking to continue her good form throughout this tournament. Port Moresby (NCD) Lydia David (Women’s U18, Fullback) One of the youngest players in the tournament at the age of 15, Lydia attends Tokarara Secondary School, where she recently competed in a Grand Final. With electric speed and agility, Lydia will be one to watch if she is given any space to find a gap during the tournament. Jeffrey Philip (Men’s U19, Utility - Halves and Hooker) An 18-year-old utility who can play at hooker or in the halves, Jeffrey represents the Waigani Christian Academy. Known for his excellent organisational skills and kicking game, Jeffrey will bring leadership and experience to the Port Moresby team during the tournament. New Guinea Islands Paul Uriso (Men’s U19, Prop and 2nd Row) A very strong defender and powerful ball runner, Paul will look to dominate through making good yardage gains. Known as a leader within the team, Paul is already on the radar of the NGI Guria first-team selectors. Attalia Joseph (Women’s U18, Halfback) An excellent defender, possessing a superb passing game over short and long distances, Attalia will look to be an on-field organiser for her team throughout the tournament. Possessing an ability to read the game, Attalia has already shown the qualities that would allow her to step up to Representative level. Port Moresby, Central Region Paulina Talin (Women’s U18, Lock) Seen by many as a potential future Junior Orchids player, Paulina has already made a name for herself in the National Capital District’s schools’ competition. Known for her aggressive defence, Paulina is also a strong ball runner who can make important carries when her team most needs them. NRL Bid Academy Head Coach, Joe Grima, was excited about rugby league followers getting the chance to see the depth of talent at junior level within the country. “I think the tournament in Goroka will be a great opportunity for our best young players to showcase their talent to not only the people of PNG, but also the rest of the rugby league world.” “There is no doubt that there is enormous natural talent amongst our emerging stars and through the work of the Academy, we are now seeing starting to see some real progress in our player development.” “I encourage everyone to watch as much of the tournament as they can as I believe they will be thrilled with what they see from the next generation of players.”