PNGRFL and NRL Strengthen Grassroots Foundations with Port Moresby Coaching Workshop

Community Rugby League (CRL) officers from the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) have completed an intensive coaching education workshop in partnership with the National Rugby League (NFL).

The high-level strategic session, held at the Santos National Football Stadium, marks a significant investment in the professional development of the country’s rugby league workforce as the sport seeks to professionalise its grassroots pathways.

Facilitated by NRL Community Lead, education development manager, Ross Antoniolli, the workshop moved beyond traditional technical drills. Instead, it focused on the commercial and structural necessity of improving facilitation skills and coaching delivery, ensuring that PNG’s development officers can effectively mentor the thousands of volunteer coaches required to sustain the game’s rapid growth.

“Strong community rugby league programs depend on confident and capable coaches.”

“By strengthening how coaching courses are delivered, we create better learning environments for volunteers and ultimately better experiences for players,” Mr Antoniolli said. 

PNGRFL CRL national game development manager, Nigel Hukula, emphasised that the workshop was essential for maintaining a high standard of delivery across the country’s diverse geographical regions.

By focusing on planning and adaptability, the PNGRFL aims to ensure that every community clinic, regardless of location, meets the same safety and quality benchmarks.

“Our officers were reminded that effective sessions require planning, adaptability, and a clear focus on participant needs.”

“Whether working with young students or community groups, sessions must remain safe, enjoyable, and purposeful,” Mr Hukula said. 

Strategic Expansion of the Schools Program

The PNGRFL is utilising this enhanced coaching capacity to broaden its reach across the Northern, Southern, New Guinea Islands, and Highlands regions.

This season, the organisation is specifically targeting schools not yet involved in formal competitions but interested in structured development programs, creating a wider net for talent identification and participation growth.

The PNGRFL continues to work closely with registered associate schools, providing fundamental skills programs that serve as the primary entry point for the national rugby league pathway. Regional Game Development Officers have now been tasked with incorporating these new strategies into upcoming outreach activities to maximize the impact of the 2026 season.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.