Former PNG Kumul, Joshua Kouoru says the Southern Region Rugby 9s tournament underway in Port Moresby is important for selection into Port Moresby-based franchises.
Kouoru observing from the sidelines as an official is impressed at the level of skills on display by players from Central village leagues; adding that the best players can be recruited for Gulf Isou and Central Dabaris Development teams as a start.
“Most of the players out here participating have played very well and this will open up the doors to further their rugby league career. I am happy that the tournament has been brought back to expose our young players and must continue,” he said.
While praising the Central league players, more is need to be done in terms of developing the level of rugby league in his home province, Gulf.
Kouoru a former West and Kumuls stalwart wants to see players from his province be recognized but through organized tournaments backed by the Gulf Provincial Government.
“The level of rugby league back in the province needs to be lifted and improved. We need more local tournaments back in Kerema. This will help identify talents.”
As a way forward, Kouoru is urging the Gulf Provincial Government to seriously get behind local leagues. He believes there is skills and talents back in the province waiting to be unleashed.