By GABRIEL KATUHO
AS the countdown begins for the inaugural KCK Rigo Rice Cup, Construct Oceanic Limited has committed K30,000 in companion sponsorship to support the tournament.
The KCK Rigo Rice Cup aims to provide a platform for nurturing local rugby league talent in Papua New Guinea and keeping youths engaged in positive activities.
With competitions such as the Port Moresby Rugby League and the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup already underway, the KCK Rigo Rice Cup offers opportunities for players who have not yet joined these leagues to showcase their skills.
Chief Executive Officer Mr McSteve Polly thanked Construct Oceanic Managing Director Mr Sape Molumi, for the sponsorship, noting its significance for the youths in the National Capital District (NCD) and Central Province.
Mr. Polly also mentioned ongoing discussions with NRL and NRL USA to form future partnerships aimed at promoting local players who have yet to reach the Hunters or Digicel ExxonMobil Cup levels.
“We are limiting participation of Digicel Cup players in the KCK Rigo Rice Cup. Each team may include no more than five players from the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, with only three allowed on the field per game,” he said.
This policy aims to allow emerging players more game time to display their talent and to broaden the rugby league’s reach in Papua New Guinea.
Mr. Polly also highlighted those strict regulations will govern the tournament, with severe penalties or suspensions for any teams or players who breach these rules.
The tournament launch is scheduled for the 17th of this month, with 20 teams expected to participate from each district in the NCD.
The KCK Rigo Rice Cup will run for four months, with the finals taking place in the first week of March next year at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.
Cash prizes will be awarded to the top three teams from each district, with K10,000 for first place, K5,000 for second, and K3,000 for third.
The district winners will advance to the finals in March, with K200,000 for first place, K60,000 for second, and K40,000 for third.
