Queensland Rugby League CEO Witnesses Passion and Potential in Papua New Guinea
Queensland Rugby League (QRL) CEO, Ben Ikin, recently experienced firsthand the immense passion that Papua New Guinea (PNG) has for rugby league. As he stepped onto a rugby league field in PNG, Ikin instantly felt the nation’s love for the game. Comparing it to the fervor of Queenslanders during State of Origin time, Ikin was amazed by how rugby league is deeply ingrained in the DNA of the PNG people.
Having only been in his role for a few months, Ikin has wasted no time in immersing himself in rugby league communities, both within Queensland and abroad. One of his early experiences was witnessing the vibrant community atmosphere at Centenary Oval, home of the Miles Devils. The oval hosted an Activate! Queensland Country Week match between the Redcliffe Dolphins and Burleigh Bears, leaving Ikin feeling proud to be a part of QRL.
Shortly after, Ikin embarked on a journey to PNG, invited by his QRL colleagues Arthur Eustace-Earle and Cassie Davis. The trip was part of the PacificAus Sports program, supported by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), aimed at building pathways for aspiring rugby league players in PNG. It was Ikin’s first visit to the country, and he was excited to witness the passion firsthand and see the substantial work being done.
One of Ikin’s memorable moments in PNG was attending a talent identification carnival at the Taurama Barracks in Port Moresby. The enthusiasm displayed by young players further strengthened his belief in the potential for rugby league’s growth in the country. While acknowledging that various aspects of the game still need development, Ikin expressed his optimism for a bright future for rugby league in PNG, considering the support provided by QRL, the PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), and the PNG Hunters.
Attending the Hostplus Cup game between the Hunters and Souths Logan Magpies at Port Moresby’s PNG Football Stadium, Ikin was immediately impressed by the game-day operations and the electric atmosphere. He noted how rugby league in PNG is starting to have a structured framework that will pave the way for its continued growth. As an expert in developing pathways, QRL aims to share its knowledge and experience with the PNG governing body, assisting in building sustainability.
In conclusion, Ben Ikin’s visit to PNG highlighted the nation’s immense passion for rugby league. The support provided by QRL, in collaboration with DFAT, the PNGRFL, and the PNG Hunters, has set the stage for potential growth and future success. The enthusiasm showcased by young players during the talent identification carnival and the energetic atmosphere of the Hostplus Cup game further solidify the belief in rugby league’s bright future in PNG. With QRL’s expertise and support, the game’s framework will continue to grow, elevating PNG’s rugby league to new heights.
