Athletics PNG clarified the process of finalising its team for the 2017 Vanuatu Pacific Mini-Games this December.
This follows the announcement from the PNG Olympic Committee Justification Committee on the athletes of the sports that have been endorsed to represent Team PNG.
President of Athletics PNG, Tony Green, said with the National Championships coming up in Goroka September 28-30, it is important for athletes to realise that some places in the team are yet to be filled and many athletes have been only provisionally endorsed subject to proving their current form.
He said in order to meet the requirements of the PNGOC, sports had to submit the names of all athletes that they want to be considered for the Games.
“A lot can change in six months but the important thing is that athletes need to be in form for the Games.”
Green said some athletes who were nominated several months ago have not yet performed to the required level, and all PNG based squad members are required to attend the National Championships unless special dispensation is granted as per the APNG selection policy.
“There are some good athletes in PNG who have not yet had the chance to prove themselves due to limited competition opportunities so it is important for these athletes to attend the National Championships.
“Equally, some whose names were put forward earlier this year will not be recommended for inclusion in the final team if they have not performed.
“The Nationals Championships are still important for selection purposes, but are not the only competition considered.”
Green said APNG had a good meeting with the Justification Committee and a good understanding had been reached.
“Our recommendations for the final team will be submitted to the PNGOC as soon as possible after the Championships.
“Once agreed then an announcement will be made. Anyone who is aggrieved about not being selected can lodge an appeal in accordance with the Team PNG Selection Policy applicable to all sports,” said Green.
Meanwhile, APNG named its management and coaching team for the Games, which is Nola Peni as team manager with Nabase Duaba as assistant manager.
Head Coach is Dior Lowry with Phillip Newton for jumps and multi events with Wilson Malana and Allan Akia as assistant coaches.