PNGRFL Supports Samberigi-Polopa Rugby League With Sporting Kits

The Samberigi-Polopa Rugby League (SPRL) received sporting kits from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) on Monday, 23 March 2026, at Koiti Oval in Pawale, Samberigi, Kagua-Erave District, Southern Highlands Province.

After being dormant for two years, the Samberigi-Polopa Rugby League was revived this year under the leadership of President Walawe Besipu, Secretary Charles Timereke, and their small executive team. 

Highlands Regional Games Development Manager James Kundi presented the sporting kits to the SPRL executives, witnessed by players and the community, which was a timely boost for the revamped league. 

The competition secretary, Charles Timereke, sincerely thanked Mr. Kundi and the PNGRFL for supporting the league with the sporting kits, which was the first support the remote league has received from the national governing body. 

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“‎On behalf of the Samberigi-Polopa Rugby League, I would like to take this time to acknowledge the PNGRFL Highlands Regional Games Development Manager, Mr. James Kundi, for assisting us with these sporting kits,” Timereke said.

“Thank you for traveling with me from Hagen and navigating through the rugged terrain of the Gulf Southern Highlands Highway (Route 700) to present the goal post pads, balls, training cones, and other sporting equipment to SPRL, which will boost our league in the remotest part of Southern Highlands Province.”

Mr. Timereke added: “This was a first of its kind for a PNGRFL boss to come down to our village level to witness the game and present these sporting kits. We are so humbled and thankful for the support.

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‎‎”I would like to thank Mr. Kundi and the PNGRFL Highlands regional team for working closely with the Samberigi-Polopa Rugby League executives to revive our league in the community and create opportunities for raw talents to showcase their skills.”

‎Secretary Timereke confirmed that the sporting kits were initially planned to be delivered for Rugby League. However, due to fighting between two neighboring tribes in Kagua Station, Mr. Kundi decided to present the sporting kits to SPRL.

SPRL is about to complete its pre-season 9s tournament, with the proper season kicking off in April. The participating teams for this season are Hoki Knights, Popouareke Raiders, Dirio Eels, Marorogo Roots, SBK Stones, Kirawi Palais, Osi Spiders, Paloko Warriors, and Somere Dragons.