PNGRFL Launches New Elite Youth Competition to Shape the Next Big Names
Papua New Guinea’s brightest young rugby league talents are set to battle it out in a high-intensity, seven-week competition designed to fast-track the nation’s best players towards the National Rugby League (NRL).
The groundbreaking tournament, a collaboration between the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and the PNG NRL Bid, builds on last year’s successful Goroka showcase, which drew national attention, including from Prime Minister James Marape.
This year’s format will see the country’s top under-19 players competing at a professional level under Digicel ExxonMobil Cup pathway clubs.
PNGRFL CEO Stanley Hondina believes this competition is a game-changer.
“We must start preparing our young stars now if they are to handle the rigours of NRL competition. This tournament will test them in a high-pressure, professional environment,” he said.
PNG NRL Bid CEO Andrew Hill echoed the importance of early development.
“This is about more than just talent—it’s about building professional habits in diet, recovery, and mentality to sustain a long career in the sport,” Hill said.
Backing the initiative, Kumul Petroleum’s Wapu Sonk called it “a massive step forward for PNG rugby league,” adding that it provides “a superb showcase for our best young talent.”
With PNG set to join the NRL in 2028, this competition could be the breeding ground for the next big names in international rugby league.
