by Lorraine Genia – EM TV Sport, Port Moresby
Earlier this month, PNG Netball announced their plans on the expansion of the code, with the inclusion of a men’s and mixed netball competition.
In their efforts to further develop the code, and improve the standard nationwide, they have identified the strengthening of domestic competitions, as a key priority area of focus.
This will include creating pathways and competitions to be played at all levels, beginning in the schools, right through to the provincial level, later the national team.
Among the changes to strengthen domestic competition in Papua New Guinea, PNG Netball will introducing a schools outreach program – focusing on capacity building of primary school girls throughout four regions of the country.
New events will also include a new player pathway program, specifically for high performing athletes, including a National Netball League, PNG Games, and University Games.
This year will see a slight change to PNG Netball’s domestic competition structure – with the separation of the annual national championships to be held between 4-7 July, and the Junior Championships, 15-18 September.
PNG Netball said the decision to separate these two events is to enhance the quality output of each event, placing emphasis on different divisions and levels of competition.
Secretary PNG Netball, Mona Lisa Leka, said the federation will be placing much of their emphasis on creating player pathways, and development.
“Basically, this will be to enhance mass participation from the across the board,” said Leka.
With the annual Port Moresby Netball Competition set to commence on the first weekend of March, PNG Netball will be looking to launch their respective programs, nationwide around that time.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ofL4kbQj4Rw%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
