Stanley Hondina has been confirmed as the Chief Executive Officer of PNGRFL after three months of acting in the position.
PNGRFL Chairman Sandis Tsaka today announced Hondina’s confirmation today and says he has performed remarkably for the past three months thus the PNGRFL Board has no hesitation in confirming his appointment.
Hondina has been acting in the position following the resignation of former CEO Reatau Rau last October.
Hondina is no stranger to rugby league, having played the game at all levels and even has a great coaching career ahead but he chose to be an administrator instead.
‘’Sometime back in 2014, I had a chat with him and pointed out to him that he (Stanley) had the attributes of making a good coach and/or an administrator and it was upon him to decide,‘’ said Tsaka.
“Looking back, we are pleased he made that call to be an administrator, and seven years on, see him at the helm as the CEO of the PNGRFL.”
Hondina holds a Bachelors Degree in Accounting from the PNG University of Technology, is a fully-fledged CPA member, and graduated with a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Papua New Guinea last year.
He is also an associate member of the PNG Institute of Directors.
Prior to working with rugby league, Stanley was employed as an auditor with the Auditor General’s Office and private accounting firm, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu.
He was instrumental in bringing our Tier 4 Semi Professional National Competition ‘’Digicel Cup’’ from where it was to where it is now and a key milestone amongst many was the delivery of a successful 2020 season amidst the global pandemic.
Chairman Tsaka said Hondina will continue to oversee the role as PNG NRLC Manager until a permanent appointment is made by the PNG NRLC Board.
“The PNG NRLC managed Digicel Cup competition is set to kick off in two months and he will continue in his capacity as PNG NRLC manager to see that all relevant processes and requirements are followed,” Tsaka said.
“The position will be advertised in the coming weeks to attract the best possible person.”
Hondina will also oversee the operations of the SP PNG Hunters until a new General Manager is appointed by the PNG Hunters Board.
“He has been and continues to work closely with all stakeholders involved both nationally and internationally to manage the challenging task of restructuring and relocating our SP PNG Hunters to South East Queensland for the 2021 Intrust Super Cup season,” Tsaka said.
Tsaka said the appointment of Hondina as PNGRFL CEO came into effect on Monday February 8, 2021 and is for a three (3) year term.
Hondina was humbled by the appointment and thanked the Board for their confidence.
“It is a huge responsibility and I will do what is best for the development and growth of the game, its players, officials and the many volunteers within the country,” he said.
“One of the priorities that needs immediate attention is supporting and strengthening our sport’s football, governance and commercial systems at local leagues, provincial, confederate and national levels as well as the National Schools programs.”
Hondina also thanked his predecessor for his contributions to the game.
“I am grateful to Reatau Rau for laying down the foundations on much of what I inherited,” he said.
