Ramona Padio

Having represented Papua New Guinea at both the under-20 and senior levels, Padio's journey began with the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, marking the country's debut in a FIFA tournament.

Padio's prowess extended to the senior team, making her international debut in a remarkable 5–0 victory against Samoa during the 2018 OFC Women's Nations Cup. 

Notably, she emerged as the top goal-scorer in the Pacific Games in Apia 2019 and Honiara 2023, showcasing her skill with 9 and 11 goals respectively.

Upon arrival from the event in Honiara, Padio said there were critics on social media regarding her appointment as captain leading up to the event. Therefore, she gave her best on the pitch to prove critics wrong.

Padio said: “When I was appointed to captain the team, there were lots of social media critics regarding my appointment. I accepted the critics and this motivated me and the team to do our best to defend the gold medal title.”

The duo will lead the team into the National Stadium on 19th November at the opening ceremony of the Games.

The PNG Olympic Committee made the announcement on Friday, 10th November in Port Moresby during the Team PNG farewell ceremony.

“We are blessed to have such a wide and diverse set of athletes, ranging in experience from those seasoned Games veterans to our new and next generation’s Team PNG athletes,” said Sir John Dawanincura, President of the PNG Olympic Committee.