The Prime Minister says the growing popularity of AFL in Papua New Guinea is positive and provides another outlet for the nation’s youth to be healthier and participate in team sports.
He issued the statement following the PNG Mosquitoes’ victory in Melbourne this weekend, making them back-to-back champions.
“I welcome the growing popularity of Aussie Rules in Papua New Guinea,” says PM Peter O’Neill.
“It is a unique game in the world of sports and is another way that Papua New Guineans and Australians can form stronger bonds.
“There is plenty of room for the different codes of football to expand in Papua New Guinea.
“Our people will always have great passion for rugby league, but we are a sports-loving nation and we will watch sports of all codes.”
The PM pointed out how popular soccer has become with the FIFA Women’s Under 20 World Cup, including rugby union’s growing supporter base.
“The Government will continue to encourage and develop grassroots sports around the country, as well as supporting the development of high performance athletes,” states O’Neill.
“We have some great athletes in our country who compete on the world stage.
“I congratulate all players, coaches and staff for their hard work to win the AFL International Cup and bring the trophy back to Papua New Guinea.
"Perhaps some of our young PNG Mozzies were spotted by talent scouts and they might have the opportunity to wear the jumper of an AFL team one day.”
(During the 2014 International Cup final. Picture: AFL Media)