28/10/2026
GOVERNOR PARKOP GIVES RUGBY 7s SPECIAL FOCUS
NCD Governor Powes Parkop has given Rugby Union 7s special prominence with the formal kickoff of the competition under the NCD Games 2026, reaffirming his commitment to restoring the code’s strength and competitiveness in Papua New Guinea.
Governor Parkop explained that Rugby Union 7s was launched separately from other sporting codes to highlight its importance for the future of the sport. “At the national level, I have been a patron of PNG Rugby Union for many years. I want to ensure Rugby Union receives the attention it deserves so it can move forward and reach new heights,” he said.
Acknowledging past challenges, the Governor expressed confidence that the NCD Games would provide opportunities for young men and women to sharpen their skills and contribute to the sport’s growth. He urged players to compete with pride, respect teammates and opponents, and aim for the longer-term goal of building a fully-fledged competition.
Governor Parkop emphasized that the NCD Games also unite communities across Port Moresby, fostering respect and appreciation. He encouraged teams to represent their clubs, families, and city with pride, noting that Rugby Union can help PNG become a competitive Sevens-playing nation.
Unlike the other six sporting codes in this year’s NCD Games, Rugby Union 7s has secured on-board sponsorships for weekly prizes, adding incentives that bring a true “Sevens festival” flavor to the Games as they build momentum toward the prestigious Governor’s Cup in December.
NCD Games Rugby Union 7s tournament director, Sallyanne Mokis, highlighted the uniqueness of the tournament: “Weekly cash prizes are being offered, with sponsors eager to support and uplift local talent, giving players the chance to showcase their skills.”
The opening weekend saw strong participation, with 20 men’s teams and 10 women’s teams competing. In the women’s division, Tatianas defeated Bomana YG 17–10, while Pom Barbarians overcame Modiki Storm 20–7 in the men’s division.
Island Breeze Limited sponsored the first week’s competition with K5,000 in prize money. Tatianas received K1,300 as winners, Bomana YG collected K700 as runners-up; Pom Barbarians received K2,000, while Modiki Storm collected K1,000.
Week Three of the Rugby Union 7s competition will continue this weekend, with matches scheduled for Saturday and Sunday. New sponsors will come on board as the tournament progresses through Week Eight, leading to the top four men’s and women’s teams qualifying for the prestigious NCD Governor’s Cup in December.
