Nelson Stone gives back to community

A two-time Pacific Games 400 metres gold medallist is inspiring youths in the Tokarara suburb to change their attitudes.

Nelson Stone, who is recovering from an injury, is using rugby league as a vehicle of change in one of the notorious suburbs in Port Moresby.   

As the saying goes, ‘home is where the heart is’, the PNG runner had registered a team and has taken youths under his wing as coach of Tokarara Nest United.

This is the inaugural season for the team playing in the Hohola Rugby League offseason competition.

Stone told Loop PNG: “I decided to give back to the community by forming this team.”   

He says if sports can change his life, it can also do the same for others.

“Many are unemployed youths and school students; I am giving back to community to tell them sports can change your life.

“Teach these youths how sports can unite Papua New Guinea, starting from this area.”

Stone says NEST stands for Never Ever Stop Trying, which was inspired by his role model, the late Mohammad Ali. 

Author: 
Charles Yapumi