PNG Kumuls Coach Says Philip Coates Still in Future Plans

Papua New Guinea has officially revealed the name of its NRL team as the PNG Chiefs, a symbolic choice representing the nation’s tribal heritage and shared leadership values. Prime Minister James Marape made the announcement before a roaring crowd at the Santos National Stadium during the annual PM’s XIII clash with Australia.

The unveiling followed an extensive public process that saw over 20,000 suggestions submitted, with “Chiefs” ultimately endorsed by both the PNG and Australian governments in partnership with the Australian Rugby League Commission.

 PNG Names New NRL Franchise ‘PNG Chiefs’ in Historic National Announcement

Mr. Marape said the Chiefs name honours the country’s traditional system of leadership. “Our forefathers and mothers were Chiefs who kept order and peace among our tribes. The PNG Chiefs will now carry that same legacy to the international stage,” he said.

He emphasised that the name reflects the inclusive nature of leadership in PNG, where both men and women serve as Chiefs in many regions such as Bougainville, East New Britain, Milne Bay, and New Ireland.

The Prime Minister revealed that “Pythons” had also been shortlisted but said “Chiefs” better captured the unity of PNG’s thousand tribes and 850 languages. The term, he noted, fits perfectly as the nation approaches its 50th Independence anniversary in 2025.

PNG’s long campaign for an NRL licence, which began in 2008, culminated in a landmark agreement with Australia last year. The new franchise also plans to launch an NRLW team and has already begun setting up girls’ development academies across the country.

Bid Chairman Ray Dib confirmed that the name was adopted after a unanimous vote, seconded by rugby league icon Marcus Bai, calling it “a reflection of PNG’s identity, courage, and community spirit.”

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