President of the FFPNG, John Kapi Natto, said sponsoring the Hekari Central Cup is a way to give back and say thank you to the people of Central Province.
Kapi Natto said the province had contributed immensely to the success of Hekari United FC over the years in the likes of players including Kema Jack, David Aua, Leslie Kalai, Tau Winnie and Gure Gabina.
“It’s you the Central players who have made Hekari what it is today. I say that from the bottom of my heart.
“The Central players have got talent that Hekari has used over the years. That’s why the Hekari Central Cup is a way for me and my wife Vonnie to give back to the Central people and keep supporting them.”
Kapi Natto however added he cannot do it alone and needed support.
“We need the help of the leaders of the Central Province. Starting next year, we want to make this an annual event.
“I want the members and governors to take ownership so that collectively, we can make this tournament become bigger. Let’s make it happen,” said Kapi Natto.
In the individual awards from the 2017 Hekari Central Cup, Ati Kepo (Kempa) won the Golden Boot award plus K500. Kepo scored eight goals during the tournament.
Numa Kila (Papaka) was the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He also scooped up K500 for his efforts.