By JOHN FRED
FORMER TNA Simbu Lions and Port Moresby Vipers speedster winger Ben Wemin is thrilled to return to the PNG NRL BID program as a trainer and coach, bringing his experience and passion back to where his professional rugby league journey began.
Ben Wemin was one of the pioneers of the PNG NRL BID program when it was introduced to Papua New Guinea. He first appeared in the PNG NRL BID jersey in 2011, traveling to Australia for tryouts and trial matches. His exceptional skills and talent quickly captured the attention of the Paramatta Eels selectors, leading him to train with their NRL Pathway Squad in 2012.
In 2013, Wemin joined the Digicel Cup competition, playing for his home province team, the TNA Simbu Lions. As a native of Chimbu Province, he became the youngest Digicel Cup player to play for the Lions that year. Known for his try-scoring abilities, Wemin was part of the first-ever SP Hunters train-on squad in 2013, a pioneering group for the PNG Hunters. However, being the youngest among seasoned players, he did not make the Hunters’ final squad for the inaugural Intrust Super Cup season in 2014.
After another year with the TNA Lions, Wemin joined the Port Moresby Vipers in 2015, becoming a household name for the franchise with his impressive footwork and try-scoring prowess. He later played for the Enga Mioks, contributing to their grand final appearance in 2018, and for the Lae Snax Tigers.
Wemin’s rugby league career was cut short during the NCD Governor’s Cup competition due to a serious knee injury, sidelining him for two years. However, this setback led to an opportunity to train the PNG NRL BID Port Moresby squad, allowing him to transition from player to mentor.
Wemin’s journey in rugby league began in schoolboys’ competitions, playing for Holy Rosary Primary School in the U12 division and progressing to the U16 division before being selected for the PNG NRL BID team. His legacy in schoolboys’ rugby league remains unbroken, showcasing his early promise and dedication to the sport.
Reflecting on his career, Wemin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to give back to the PNG NRL BID program. As a pioneer and product of the system, he emphasizes the importance of being part of the PNG NRL BID to his players, encouraging them to be good citizens both on and off the field.
“I always encourage boys and girls from PNG NRL BID about the importance of being in the system. I also urge them to be good citizens on and off the rugby league field. I was informed by the Head Coach of the PNG NRL BID to assist him with skills training,” Wemin said.
Wemin’s efforts and dedication paid off last weekend at the National Sports Institute (NSI) in Goroka when the Port Moresby team claimed the title in the girls’ division. The boys’ team also performed admirably throughout the tournament, showcasing the impact of his coaching.
Wemin’s returns to the PNG NRL BID program marks a full-circle moment in his career, highlighting his commitment to nurturing the next generation of rugby league talent in Papua New Guinea. His journey from a schoolboy rugby league player to a professional athlete and now a coach serves as an inspiration to many aspiring players.
