With its rich history of Papua New Guinea big-hitters, Hull KR have forged a unique deal to unearth more gems from the rugby league-mad island.
Rovers, who host holders Leigh in tomorrow’s Challenge Cup quarter-final, have linked with leading PNG outfit Port Moresby Vipers in a bid to capture some of the nation’s best young talent. The exclusive partnership sees two Vipers juniors fly across the world to try and make it big with the Super League club.
And they will stay with John Okul, the ex-PNG centre who settled in Hull with his family after joining the Robins following the 1995 World Cup.
Kumuls legends Stanley Gene and Makali Aizue also earned cult-hero status at Craven Park and KR are looking for the next potential star. Rovers chief executive Paul Lakin said: “This is a very significant partnership for both Hull KR and Papua New Guinea’s domestic game that has been months in planning.
"Papua New Guinea is the only country in the world who’s primary sport is rugby league. We’ll put the time and attention into this partnership to ensure we give it the best possible chance of success. It’s exciting, innovative and has huge potential.”
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The chosen 16 year-olds will join the KR academy, play for the Under 18s and attempt to earn a first-team deal. They will stay for at least two years before the process starts again. Port Moresby’s juniors will be classed as federation-trained players should they sign for KR’s first-team and they will be enrolled on a comprehensive education programme.
Rovers chief operating officer Craig Franklin, head of academy Jason Netherton and Okul flew out to the Pacific island this week ahead of today’s official launch in its capital city. Netherton added:
“As a club, we have a great history with PNG rugby league, and this will allow that affinity to continue for years to come.
Hull KR legend Stanley Gene in action for his beloved Papua New Guinea in the 2008 World Cup. Rovers are hoping a new partnership with Port Moresby Vipers could see more Papuan talent head to Craven Park (Getty Images)“Players from PNG are traditionally very tough and uncompromising; I’m looking forward to helping develop their skillset, embedding them into our culture and hopefully seeing them become future Hull KR players.”
Power Parkop, the governor of Port Moresby and Vipers club patron, said: “The opportunity to train and develop our young talents will now give prominence to our PNG NRL bid.
"The significance of this arrangement is that our development players will not only play rugby league but also further their education by schooling in the UK. It’s a life-changing opportunity we should grab with both hands.”
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