Jonah Kautu Academy Ends Phase One

The Jonah Kautu Academy (JKA) successfully concluded its phase one today (June 21) with a small presentation of certificates to the participants aged 10-16 after ten weeks of running the program at the Sir John Guise Stadium Multi-purpose Oval.

The JKA development program was started last year by the founder and experienced rugby union player, Jonah Kautu. Jonah initiated this development pathway to mentor and impart basic rugby union skills to emerging talents.

The kids were taken through the fundamentals of rugby union like passing, kicking and running for seven weeks and they competed in tag rugby for three weeks, with the finals ending today followed by the presentation of certificates. 

Speaking on behalf of Jonah Kautu, facilitator Joe Kautu expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the JKA after ten weeks of coaching, mentoring, and guiding the next generation of rugby union stars.

“The first ten weeks ended today. We are teaching the kids the fundamentals of rugby because these are the key areas that they need to learn first before they compete at a higher level,” Kautu explained.

“The concept is based on development skills because we see that we are lacking this at the bigger competitions. It’s better to start with the kids first, develop them as young as they are, and prepare them to compete in bigger competitions.

“It’s amazing. I’m pleased to see the kids showing interest in turning up every Saturday. It’s very important for their growth and development in rugby union. We thought we would never get this kind of turnout, but the excitement shown by the kids shows that we are heading in the right direction.”

Mr. Kautu also acknowledged NiuPower Limited and MODN Construction for providing official and coaches sporting equipment, including the kids' gears, making sure that the program runs smoothly and professionally. 

Meanwhile, the kids in Port Moresby will go for a short break while Jonah Kautu Academy’s facilitators shift their focus to conduct a similar program at the Hiri West Academy in the Hiri-Koiari Electorate.