Komo Rugby League Association has received assistance from Exxonmobil PNG Limited on behalf of PNG LNG through the form of new jerseys.
KRLA is a grassroots initiative established by youth in Komo early this year to promote peace and unity through the sport of rugby.
The initiative, supported by the efforts of the Royal Papua New Guinea constabulary and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, has reduced the amount of violence in the area and increased local economic activity.
Kim Hahn, ExxonMobil Upstream Asset Manager said, ExxonMobil and PNG LNG are pleased to support youth and community leaders in Komo.
“We are both humbled and excited to see what the youth and communities across Komo have achieved together. This initiative serves as an example for all those in Hela that want to live in peace and build prosperity for its people” she said.
Hahn further added that the company’s continuous sponsorship of the PNG LNG Kumuls and the PNG Hunters demonstrates its confidence in rugby league as a tool to develop people and unify communities.
KRLA president, Edwin Morris, said it was a Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League requirement that all affiliates have the association’s logo and the PNG RFL logo on team uniforms when playing.
He thanked ExxonMobil for providing the jerseys, and for its ongoing support and encouragement of rugby in Komo.
“To have professional uniforms is a big boost for the esteem of the players and the fans,” Morris said.
In April ExxonMobil donated sporting equipment and watercoolers. The company also facilitated PNG Hunters coach, Michael Marum and players William Mone and Stanton Albert; and PNG National Rugby League manager, Cathy Neap’s visit to Komo in May.
The KRLA teams will be heading into an elimination round next month before the grand final scheduled for September 14.
Nearly 2000 spectators and supporters from as far as Lake Kopiago and Tari Township converge every Sunday afternoon at the Komo station to watch the games.
Copyright: ExxonMobil PNG Limited
