VALLEY HUNTERS TAKE GRASSROOTS RUGBY TO JAPAN
BY LETHISA KOLOKOL
The Valley Hunters Rugby Union Club will depart Port Moresby tomorrow for Tokyo, Japan, for its first-ever international tour, marking a major milestone for the Port Moresby-based grassroots club.
Speaking to FM100 Sports, Valley Hunters General Manager Max Katal said the club was heading into the international tour following a successful 2026 season, with the premier men’s team winning its third consecutive Pepsi Capital Rugby Union (CRU) premiership, while the women’s team claimed its first-ever premiership title.
Mr Katal said the Valley Hunters Japan Tour will run from November 11 to 29, with the team scheduled to play several matches against Japanese university sides and local rugby clubs.
He said the opportunity to tour Japan followed the club’s strong performances in the domestic competition, having secured the CRU premiership in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Mr Katal described the tour as a proud moment for the club, providing grassroots players with international exposure and an opportunity to experience rugby at a higher level.
He said the tour would also inspire young players in Papua New Guinea and create pathways for those looking to develop their skills and pursue opportunities through rugby union.
Mr Katal said Capital Rugby Union had also attracted international attention, with former international rugby stars Will Genia and Israel Folau recognising the competition.
Meanwhile, he confirmed that the club’s Mantas 7’s team is also preparing for an international tour to Dubai later this month.
