Four newly established Kick Boxing Clubs were given Certificate of Recognition by the PNG Kick Boxing Federation (PNGKBF) recently at the Sir John Guise Sports Federation Office.
The newly established clubs were from Hela Province, Western Highlands Province, Southern Highlands Province and an East New Britain, Port Moresby based club.
PNG Kickboxing Federation President and Head-hunter, Mr Stanley Nandex stated that these clubs were established by senior fighters who were able to branch out from their respective Kick boxing Associations and run their own kickboxing clubs.
Nandex added that most provincial associations have been facing political and administrative issues which has affected the smooth run and development of kick boxing in various provinces, however with individuals running their own clubs, this is something positive that goes to show that Kick boxing can still be developed by strong and true passionate kickboxers.
“We give these clubs certificate of recognition, which goes to show that the Federation is behind these clubs, so they can affiliate and work together with the Kickboxing Federation.”
“Sooner or later we all need to work together for the interest of the sport and code, we need to develop Kick boxing, and these small clubs will need to update and report directly to the federation.”
Nandex added that the federation is happy to have individuals who have been faithfully running kickboxing in the outside province like Simbu, Mt Hagen, Eastern Highlands, even in Enga, where there is ongoing violence, and Hela Province which now has over 1500 interested kickboxers.
The four (4) Clubs and their Coaches who were recognised are:
Mr Jugari Agio and Mr. Joel Embeli – Hela Kickboxing Club,
Mr Ali Akon is running – Southern Highlands Kickboxing Club,
Mr Gilbert Kay – Mt Hagen Lingstan Kickboxing club
Mr Vincent Toliman- ENB – Pom base Mataungan Kickboing club.
“PNGKBF is not only interested in raising champions but also raising vibrant youths who can contribute back to the nation and also we would like these youths to make this sport evolve and change more lives.”
“Despite our challenges on networking, our collaborative efforts with clubs and associations PNGKBF recognised and awarded the – 2024 Initiative of the Year.”
PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) has the same vision, to see sports evolving and contributing to this nation, and PNG Kick Boxing Federation shares the same vision and is happy to meet the requirements set by PNGSF and to work hand in hand with the PNGSF.
“Its good to have PNGSF come on board and support PNGKBF and with the support given, we want to recognize all kick boxing clubs and associations, get them to affiliate so that we can produce some of the best fighters in the region and in the world.”