After a much anticipated high performance camp, the Pacific MMI PNG Pepes National Squad has come up with a final 12 member team.
PNG Netball Federation President, Julienne Leka-Maliaki, was in tears when naming the final squad yesterday.
Maliaki says it was not a walk in the park and the results speak for themselves. It was four days of high level training with experienced coaches, including former Fiji Pearls coach, Unaisi Rokoura.
The initial 20 member squad went through thorough physical testing and different programs including specialist sessions in the shooting area, midcourt and defending.
A final 12 member squad was announced yesterday by the PNG Netball Federation, in the presence of naming right sponsor, Pacific MMI Limited.
Lua Rikis, Mary-Paul Buelher, Raylene Andrew and Tiata Baldwin, are the shooters. PNG Tennis ace Jacklyn Lahari detached from her comfort zone in the shooting area to join forces with Gasi Moka, Winnie Mavara and Kimberly Alex in the mid-court area.
Described as a true butterfly on the court, Kilala Owen, will play an important role with Jeperth Tulapi, Tau Galewa and Queensland-based youngster, Courtney Abel. The three non-travelling reserves are Susan Wellington, Shana Dringo and Cheryl Renagi.
PNG Netball Federation President, Julienne Leka-Maliaki, says the girls selected were outstanding and were true to their form during the camp.
They will represent the country in the coming 3 test series against Northern Ireland and Fiji. Both countries are ranked in the top 10.
Maliaki says this event is important one for the Pepes, including the Pacific Netball Series prior to its INF status and ranking. Papua New Guinea is currently ranked 17th.
