56 TEAMS JOIN AITAPE INDEPENCE SOCCER TOURNAMENT

BY KENNY ROMANUS, Western Province

SOCCER is making a strong return in Aitape, West Sepik Province, with 56 teams registering for the Samson Kupu Independence Soccer Tournament at Parer Oval.

The competition brings together 40 men’s teams and 16 women’s teams and officially got underway today as part of celebrations leading up to Papua New Guinea’s 51st Independence anniversary.

Organisers said the tournament is intended to use sport as a platform to promote unity, peace, friendship and good sportsmanship among communities.

Local Organising Committee Chairman Bruce Pailal said the competition was also organised to bring soccer back to the forefront of Independence celebrations in Aitape after the sport had been largely inactive during previous celebrations.

The tournament will run throughout the week, with the grand finals scheduled for September 16, Independence Day.

Aitape Town Mayor Ian Smith Welisai acknowledged the participating teams and the organising committee for their efforts and commitment in making the tournament possible.

Acting District Administrator Mathias Kemboi praised sponsor Samson Kupu for initiating the competition and investing in sport within the Aitape community.

Mr Kemboi said sporting initiatives of this nature could create positive opportunities for young people while encouraging greater community participation and engagement.

He called on all participating players to maintain discipline, respect their opponents and demonstrate good sportsmanship throughout the competition.

Mr Kemboi also said the tournament could help identify emerging football talent in Aitape and provide a pathway for promising players to compete at higher levels, including national competitions.

As the tournament builds towards the September 16 finals, organisers are hoping the competition will produce champions while also strengthening unity and contributing to the revival of soccer in Aitape.