Ase Boas

The book, aimed at motivating young minds to envision their future careers, was introduced by 10 enthusiastic children from Buk bilong Pikinini (BbP) during a remarkable field trip to the iconic Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.

The purpose of the trip was to offer these children a firsthand experience of the life of a rugby player, engaging with SP Hunters Players and absorbing the essentials of the profession.

Stanton Albert and Brendon Gotuno, to clear the air on why they were dropped from the 2022 PNG Hunters team.

Boas will play his 116^th match for the Hunters when they take on the Central Queensland Capras in Rockhampton. That will move him ahead of Adex Wera for second place in the Hunters’ all-time games list behind, behind only starting hooker Wartovo Puara Jnr (125 matches).    

Ase Boas has been a successful rugby player for a number of years and continues to inspire children across the country with his great sports and leadership skills.

“Not many people would know that Ase has a deep interest in ensuring that PNG’s children receive the best possible education and support to do well in life and is happy to lend his name and give his time to support Buk bilong Pikinini’s mission of increasing literacy rates in the country,” said BbP.

Boas replaces William Mone at halfback. Shane Haro, Kevin Appo and Epel Kapinias will make their debuts as Hunters numbers 74, 75 and 76 respectively, with Woods Kawage as Hunter no. 77 to come off the bench.

Joe Joshua, McKenzie Yei and Junior Rop were omitted for disciplinary reasons.

Jack Oii, Jerry Teme and Jordan Pat have been named on the extended bench.

The 20-man squad is:

Boas will return to Papua New Guinea after making five competitive appearances for the club.

This included a try-scoring home debut against Batley Bulldogs and kicking two goals in the team’s 46-16 victory over Halifax.

“Everyone at Featherstone Rovers would like to warmly thank Boas for his contribution to the club and wish him and his family all the very best for the future,” says the club.

Boas replaces Lachlan Lam who has been released to begin pre-season training with 2018 NRL premiers Sydney Roosters.

Stanford Talita, who was added onto the squad with fellow PNG U23 Residents Edwin Ipape and Woods Kawage, was forced to withdraw to focus on his studies. Talita has been replaced by Nima.

The arrivals of Tom Butterfield today (Monday) and Nene Macdonald tomorrow (Tuesday) will complete the squad for game one against England Knights in Lae on Saturday, 27 October. The team for game one will be announced in Lae on Thursday.

The brothers, who have represented the PNG Kumuls in the 2017 World Cup, were also integral in the success of the PNG Hunters’ Intrust Super Cup winning team in the same year.

Ase captained the Hunters to minor premiership and grand final victories, claiming the Duncan Hall Medal for a player-of-the-match performance in the final and Courier Mail Medal for being the best and fairest in the competition, over the entire season.

Apart from training and keeping in form, leadership also plays a critical role in any match.

It is no secret that captain of the SP PNG Hunters, Ase Boas, plays a very influential role in the team.

He has proven, time and again, his determination and commitment in getting the team to the top.

A few weeks ago Boas suffered a couple of injuries as well as dengue fever, which negatively impacted his form.

The five-eighth will be leading the SP PNG Hunters in tomorrow’s match, and Coach Michael Marum says the only concern is his level of fitness.  

Boas returns to captain the SP PNG Hunters in round 16 of the Intrust Super Cup competition tomorrow afternoon.

However, more work needs to be done by the 29-year-old.  

Coach Michael Marum said Boas is carrying a bit more weight, which is unfavourable for half backs.

“Your half backs should be around 80, 85 or 86 kilos and they can run and be in the game all throughout,” Marum stated.