The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) is urging all associate and affiliated leagues to complete their registration ahead of the February 27th, 2026, deadline.
PNGRFL General Manager for Community Rugby League, Mark Mom, said both new and existing leagues interested in affiliating with the national body should contact their respective regional confederate points of contact as soon as possible.
“We want to ensure all league registrations are completed by 27 February to allow sufficient time for compliance checks and player registrations,” Mr Mom said.
“Each region has designated points of contact, and we strongly encourage non-affiliated leagues to reach out to our officers. Affiliating with PNGRFL not only enables leagues to formally join their regional confederates, but it also allows us to provide support through upskilling in league administration, coaching, refereeing, and other development programs.”
To boost league participation and compliance, PNGRFL introduced an incentive kit program in 2025, which will continue into the 2026 season.
Mr Mom said the initiative was aimed at helping leagues improve the standard and organisation of their competitions.
“In 2025, we provided incentive kits to support leagues in running their competitions,” he said.
“These kits included game-day equipment such as goal post pads and corner posts, footballs, loud hailers, and audio systems. We will continue this initiative in 2026, with kits to be distributed prior to the commencement of competitions.”
Aroma Coast Rugby League Chairman Chris Enara, whose league was among those that received the incentive kits, welcomed the program.
“I believe the incentive kits will greatly benefit the rural communities where Aroma Coast Rugby League operates, especially in village settings,” Mr Enara said.
“They help create a professional game-day environment, shift mindsets, and give communities a real sense of the standards expected in rugby league.”
NCD Schools Rugby League President Arnold Gende also praised the initiative, describing it as a significant boost for the schools competition.
“This is the first time we have received this level of support,” Mr Gende said.
“Compared to previous seasons, this year will be different. The incentive kits are a game-changer, particularly in improving the standard of officiating.”
League affiliation registrations close on February 27, 2026, while player registrations close on May 1, 2026, for associate (schools) and affiliate (senior) competitions.
The 2026 competition calendar is scheduled as follows:
- Associate Leagues: April 3 – July 28, 2026
- Affiliate Leagues: May 1 – September 27, 2026
- Club Championships: October 9 – 25, 2026
PNGRFL has encouraged leagues to meet all deadlines to ensure a smooth and well-coordinated 2026 rugby league season.
