With excitement growing for Papua New Guinea’s entry into the NRL in 2028, the time has come to give the new team a name. The PNG NRL Franchise Board and PNG Government have announced a competition to name the team and fans can have their say This is another giant step towards sporting history, with every Papua New Guinean invited to help choose the name of the nation’s first-ever NRL team, which will debut in the 2028 NRL Premiership. When the team runs out for its first NRL match in 2028, the name on their jerseys will represent every Papua New Guinean. It will be a rallying cry, a badge of honour on the field, and a symbol of unity for a proud rugby league nation. The official launch of the Name Our Team competition took place at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby in front of a packed crowd of media and dignitaries. The announcement marked the start of a nationwide campaign encouraging all Papua New Guineans to submit their ideas for the team name at www.yourteamnamehere.co. It is expected that the chosen name will be announced, during Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations — a moment that will unite the entire nation and be the start of an incredible journey towards 2028. The name will be worn with pride on team jerseys, displayed on signage and merchandise, and broadcast to millions of rugby league fans around the world. The competition has been organised by the PNG NRL Franchise Board, in collaboration with key partners and stakeholders, to ensure that the team’s identity reflects the pride, unity, and aspirations of the nation. It is part of an overall plan to make sure that every Papua New Guinean has a voice in shaping the future of their own team. PNG Prime Minister James Marape described the launch as a defining moment for the nation’s sporting and cultural history. “Rugby league is in our DNA. It’s more than a sport – it’s something that binds us together as a nation,” he said. “In 2028, our team will step onto the NRL field for the first time, representing our people, our culture, and our spirit. “As we prepare to mark 50 years of Independence in 2025, the announcement of our team name will be one of the proudest moments in our history.” PNG NRL Bid CEO Andrew Hill said the competition was about creating a team that every Papua New Guinean can call their own. “This is more than a name – it’s a symbol of national pride and a reflection of who we are as a nation,” he said. “Our team will carry the hopes and dreams of our country onto one of the biggest sporting stages in the world. “By inviting every Papua New Guinean to help us name our team, we are building something that truly belongs to its people.” How to Take Part The competition is simple and open to all Papua New Guineans: 1. Visit: www.yourteamnamehere.co 2. Submit: Your suggested team name 3. Share: Spread the word through your family, community, and social media Over the coming weeks, the campaign will be visible across television, radio,newspapers, online, and in communities nationwide. Everyone is encouraged to be involved and ensure that the team’s identity reflects the pride, history, and future of Papua New Guinea….PACNEWS PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: POST COURIER PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 14 Aug 2025