Hull KR Announce Groundbreaking Partnership with Papua New Guinea’s Port Moresby Vipers
Hull KR Announces Groundbreaking Partnership with Port Moresby Vipers
In a historic move, Hull Kingston Rovers (KR) have forged a pioneering partnership with Papua New Guinea’s Port Moresby Vipers, marking the first of its kind deal with a Super League club. This groundbreaking collaboration will see players from Papua New Guinea join Rovers’ academy each year, with the aim of progressing to the first team.
Papua New Guinea, the only country in the world where rugby league is the national sport, boasts a rich history in the sport and a strong connection to Hull KR through past players like Stanley Gene, John Okul, and Makali Aizue. The partnership will see two players selected to join the under-18s team, receiving education and welfare support as they aim to progress through the club’s set-up as Federation Trained players.
Hull KR’s chief executive, Paul Lakin, expressed his excitement about the significant partnership, which has been in the works for two years. Lakin emphasized the potential of the collaboration, stating, “It’s exciting, innovative, and has huge potential.”
The Port Moresby Vipers, with a storied history in Papua New Guinea rugby league, have been champions of the National Cup multiple times. The club’s strong presence nationally and in the capital city of Port Moresby sets the stage for a fruitful partnership with Hull KR.
Head of Academy at Hull KR, Jason Netherton, highlighted the tough and uncompromising nature of players from Papua New Guinea, expressing his eagerness to develop their skills and integrate them into the club’s culture.
Governor of Port Moresby and patron of Port Moresby Vipers, Power Parkop MP, lauded the partnership as a milestone in junior rugby league development, offering young Papua New Guinean talents a platform to shine on the international stage. The program not only focuses on rugby league but also provides educational opportunities for the players, setting the stage for a transformative experience for the aspiring athletes.