The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League or PNGRFL completed the first leg of its nationwide high-performance program. The initiative was aimed at elevating professional standards within the Santos Cup and prepare elite female athletes for potential selection in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup (RLWC26).
Led by PNGRFL Physical Performance Manager, Edward Moses Guise and PNG Orchids Head of Performance, Luke Portese, the performance team visited all six Santos Cup franchises across Port Moresby, Mt. Hagen, Goroka, Lae, and East New Britain.
The tour focused on improving key skills identified by the PNGRFL, accelerating the physical development of identified Players of National Interest (PONI), and building the professional capacity of club coaching staff.
“This program is a critical component of our on-going physical development program for our domestic players as they strive towards selection for the Orchids as we look toward the 2026 World Cup. It is about setting international standards for skill development and physical performance early in the season,” said Tony Archer, PNGRFL Chief Operating Officer.
During the club visits, performance staff conducted intensive sessions covering tackling techniques and conditioning. Beyond group skills, the program provided a unique opportunity for local Santos Cup personnel, including Head Coaches, Assistant Coaches, and Strength & Conditioning staff, to work directly with international-standard performance experts.
The program reached 150 players and over 30 coaches and support staff across the country. The initiative ensures that the Building Blocks established during the pre-season are translated into high-performance habits throughout the competitive season.
This high-performance program, which focuses on female athlete development in the PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNG NRLC), is part of the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports Program and is supported by Santos and KMHL.
