The sport of futsal will be introduced to Aitape town this week by the East Sepik Futsal Association (ESFA).
Aitape is in Sandaun Province and is connected by a 177.4 km stretch of highway to Wewak, the East Sepik capital.
Futsal is a modified form of soccer played with five players per side on a smaller pitch.
ESFA president Clearance Hukahu said a one day clinic will be held this Wednesday, followed by a trial competition which will see 12 men’s and 6 women’s teams starting their inaugural competition.
He said that the ESFA assistance followed a request from Aitape sports officers after their participation in the East Sepik grassroots games two months ago.
Hukahu believes futsal will help lift the standard of soccer in the country.
ESFA has seven local associations and they have held a competition in Wewak for the last 10 years.
Futsal is recognized by the soccer world governing body, FIFA and is played globally.
Caption: File picture of ESFA competition in Wewak.