Rugby league fans across the country are invited to take part in pre-season community activities when the NRL in the Park kicks off in Lae and Port Moresby this weekend, with events also planned for Mount Hagen, Goroka, Madang, Buka and Kokopo.
Held each weekend in a different location over the next month, the NRL in the Park is a community initiative sponsored and organised by rugby league broadcaster Digicel Play, which aims to bring PNG’s favourite sport to the people.
The free event will provide a variety of live entertainment for all ages including meeting local rugby league stars, local bands, prizes, fun games and comedic personalities.
In what is set to be an exciting pre-season build up, fans will also have the opportunity to watch their favourite NRL highlights from past seasons on Digicel big-screens showcasing memorable tries, the biggest tackles and major hit-ups.
CEO Digicel PNG, Maurice McCarthy, said the event highlighted the broadcaster’s commitment to the people of PNG.
“NRL is arguably the most-loved sport in Papua New Guinea and these free local events will allow fans to celebrate their favourite game ahead of the 2016 season,” he said.
“Digicel is proud to bring NRL to the people of PNG through live televised matches as well as hosting free events around the country so everyone can get a piece of the action.
“People of all ages are encouraged to come along to their local event and enjoy a fun-filled day with friends, family and players from their favourite teams.”
The first event will be held in Lae this Saturday (30 January), at Eriku Oval between 11am and 2pm. The event will feature entertainment by Greg Aaron, winner of the Digicel Stars competition and his band. There will also be a special appearance by star players of the Lae Snax Tigers from the Digicel Cup, David Loko, Noel Joel and Charles Martin.
The Port Moresby event will follow on Sunday (January 31) at Jack Pidik Park between 11am and 2pm featuring entertainment by the TONIQ Band (Michael, Mereani & Manu). There will also be stand-up comedy by Elton Kili, and a special appearance by the SNS Vipers
Captain Samuel Koim. The activities will be officiated by the Governor of NCD, Powes Parkop.
Further events will be held at Mt Hagen (Saturday 6 February), Goroka (Sunday 14 February), Madang (Saturday, February 20), Buka (Saturday, February 27) and Kokopo (Saturday 27 February).
