TEAM PNG Hero Poro Gahekave recently visited the PNG distance runners in training in Kerowagi, Simbu province to pass on some valuable advice to the athletes.
Gahekave who returned from the USA a year ago after Graduating from Lubbock Christian University with a degree in Business Administration has expressed her strong desire to pass on the benefits of her experience to the new generation of young athletes.
During her two days in Kerowagi she presented sessions on Goal Setting and Time Management , important topics that were covered during her one week induction as a Team PNG HERO in November last year
The Team PNG HERO Programme is the PNG Olympic Committee’s athlete ambassador programme. Secretary General of the PNGOC Auvita Rapilla refers to the HERO Programme as their flagship programme and one which they are very proud of.
The term ‘HERO’ reflects PNGOC’s core values of Honesty, Excellence, Respect and Openness. The program provides an opportunity to develop athletes into leaders in their sport and communities.
There was a lot of positive feedback from the athletes. Jenny Albert – who has travelled a lot herself, said that she has heard a lot of such advice over the years and has been asked to sign documents and write down her goals.
“However I never took it seriously she said but today I realised its true and I am happy I am learning something and will put into practice.”
Another athlete who has been in the sport for a few years Abel Siune said that he was so happy Poro came to talk about such things that he has never heard before and pledged to work hard to reach the goals that he has now set for himself for this forthcoming season.
“The athletes were quite taken aback by the presentations,” said Coach Wilson Malana.
“They found the sessions extremely valuable and they certainly learned a lot. Apart from her five years studying overseas, Poro has 14 years’ experience with the national team so she has a lot to offer to the young athletes.”