Women’s Santos Cup Launched its 2025 Season

After a long wait, the Women’s Santos Cup officially launched its 2025 season at the Santos National Football Stadium yesterday night (July 29th) in Port Moresby.  

Witnessing the launch were various distinguished guests from Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) and PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC), including PNG International, Justin Olam. 

The semi-professional women’s competition kicked off its inaugural season last year, which featured six teams in the likes of Goroka Lahanis, Central Dabaris, Mt Hagen Eagles, Lae Tigers, East New Britain Gurias, and Port Moresby Vipers.

The Goroka Lahanis were crowned the inaugural champions in 2024 following their gritty 8-6 victory over the determined Central Dabaris. The same teams from last season will compete again for national glory this season. 

While launching the 2025 Santos Cup, PNGRFL Board Director Lorna McPherson said: “This is the beginning of a new chapter in PNG Rugby League. The Santos Cup is more than just a competition. It’s a celebration of inclusion, opportunity, and the unstoppable spirit of women in sports.”

She encouraged the six participating teams, including the players, to take pride in being the pioneers of women’s rugby league in PNG, urging them to maintain professionalism at all times, both on and off the field.

Former Melbourne Storm premiership winner Justin Olam gave a few remarks, highlighting: “I think it’s a really good initiative for the women, especially the young girls in the country. It’s very brave for them to come out and take part in this competition.

“In our society, it’s sometimes hard for women to take part in sports, but this competition is empowering them. There are opportunities for them to compete, not only here but also on the world stage. It’s a great step forward.”  

Lorna McPherson and Santos Country Chairman Leon Buskens officially launched the 2025 Santos Cup, wishing the six clubs good luck in their quest to fight for the coveted premiership trophy. 

Meanwhile, the opening round of the Santos Cup will kick off this weekend alongside the Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup, with finals to be hosted simultaneously with the men’s competition in September.  

PC: PNGRFL Media