Prime Minister James Marape has congratulated Willie Peters as the inaugural head coach of the PNG Chiefs, describing it as a “major and decisive step” towards the country’s historic entry into the NRL in 2028.
Marape said the appointment followed a thorough and credible international recruitment process led by the club’s board and management, in partnership with the National Rugby League.
“The appointment of a head coach is a crucial step in the entire clockwork of building a competitive team,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“I commend the chairman, board, and CEO for running a transparent and professional process, and I thank the NRL for ensuring the right systems were followed in selecting a coach of high caliber.”
He said Peters brings strong credentials to the role, including success in the UK Super League and experience in elite-level rugby league programs.
“This is the type of leadership we need as we build towards fielding our first competitive team in 2028,” he said.
Marape also praised Peters’ commitment to relocate to Port Moresby with his family ahead of the club’s debut, noting that his early arrival would allow him to work closely with management in establishing the team’s structure, recruitment pathways, and culture.
Marape further, emphasized that the PNG Chiefs would operate independently from political influence, with all technical and operational decisions left to qualified professionals.
“The team is not for politicians like me to interfere in. It is a professional sporting organization and must be managed at arm’s length,” he said.
“Our role as Government is to provide policy support, moral support, and resource backing — while allowing the experts to do their job.”
He acknowledged the strong partnership with NRL leadership, including Chairman Peter V’landys and CEO Andrew Abdo, whose confidence in Papua New Guinea’s bid was instrumental.
