A host of PNG’s rising talents have signed contracts to train with the Papua New Guinea National Sporting Institute under their Athlete Development Program.

Since 2019, the NSI has been on a drive to identify and train rising talent in PNG.

Some of the talents they have raised have gone on to represent the country with pride and also receive scholarship to study overseas. 

Addressing their parents yesterday, NSI Director Janet Gimots said the program has had its challenges and successes.

“Athletes who have been selected are privileged to be part of the program. Whilst we celebrate the success, we also acknowledge the challenges faced when implementing the program.”

“Also in the US, you can’t represent your college if you don’t have the required GPA. So we are giving you the opportunity to build your foundation in Education to prepare you for opportunities overseas.”

“One of the challenges is funding and I have appealed to the parents to support with fundraising activities where possible.”

ADP 2025 athletes are: Tamara Baru (Long Jump) Merna Martins (sprints), Micah Gaisane (sprints), Damien Kote (Javelin), Marykate Pais (Middle Distance), Bradford Hollie (Sprints), Danny Warkit (sprints), Nathan Kawona (Middle Distance), Joy Teiba (Sprints), and Japhet Wilson (Sprints).

The ADP is an initiative by the NSI under the Talent Identification & Development (TIDP) “Catch Them young” slogan. The young potential athletes, are identified from various competitions, such as the school’s carnivals, or festivals, regional and national championships. Potential athletes are offered a residential scholarship to train under qualified coaches and be exposed to high level of training and competition, at the same time continue their education. The ADP fosters partnership with the national federations, to ensure there is pathway for athletes to hopefully represent the country. The sport of Athletics was chosen to start the program and create a good relationship and partnership with Athletics PNG.

The program emphasizes strongly on both education and training and both areas are given equal priority with additional life-long skills and values including extra curriculum in sport and exercise science, drugs in sport and mental health.

The program is now into its fifth year since its inception in 2019, the number of athletes, has grown each year and now a total of twelve athletes. Most of the athletes have gone on to represent the country and other success stories in this program is that we have six athletes who received scholarships to study and train in the US and Australia.

After a long hiatus, Athletics PNG INC. is now hosting a World Athletics Coaches Education Certification System (CECS) Level 1.

28 participants from around the country are at the PNG National Sports Institute to attend the week-long course.

The last time a program like this was held was in 2001 according to workshop co-facilitator Philip Kamane.

Among the participants are athletes who recently competed in Benjamin Aliel, Rellie Kaputin, and Karo Igo including former champions in Wala Gime, Sapolai Yao, Angela Way, Debbie Kaore, Nelson Stone and Subul Babo.

The course is run by Team PNG Athletics Head Coach Brett Green.

The National Sports Institute (NSI), a Division of the PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF), is pleased to announce the successful handover of a new Toyota Ten Seater and six mobile tower lights to the Institute. These valuable items were generously provided by PNGSF, symbolizing their continued commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and support in Papua New Guinea.

The ceremony, held at the NSI campus, saw the presence of PNGSF Finance and Admin Officer, Mr. Winston Nelson, alongside other esteemed officers from the Foundation. They were warmly received by NSI Director, Ms. Janet Gimots, and her dedicated team.

In his address, Mr. Nelson emphasized the significance of these contributions, highlighting that the new vehicle and lighting systems are integral to the effective implementation and smooth running of PNGSF’s programs and community engagement at the Institute. Mr. Nelson stated that “These items are not just tools; they are enablers of progress, designed to facilitate our sports initiatives and ensure that our programs, athletes and staff have the resources they need to excel.”

Ms. Gimots, in her heartfelt word of thanks, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the National Sports Institute. “We are deeply appreciative of the PNG Sports Foundation’s generosity. The Toyota Ten Seater will greatly enhance our mobility and logistics, while the lighting systems will improve our facilities, making them safer and more efficient. We commit to utilizing these resources responsibly and ensuring they are well-maintained to serve our programs for years to come,” she remarked.

This handover marks a significant step in bolstering the capabilities of the NSI, ensuring that it continues to be a leading center for sports excellence in Papua New Guinea. The NSI community looks forward to seeing the positive impact these new resources will bring to their programs and activities. The Institute wishes to sincerely thank the PNG Sports Foundation, and especially the outgoing CEO Mr. Albert Veratau, for their unwavering support and dedication to the development of sports in our country.

The Human Movement Studies (HMS) section has for the first time in almost 14 years registered its first intakes of students into the Bachelor of Education in Physical Education program. This program exists in partnership with the School of Science & Technology (SOST), University of Goroka (UOG). The SOST is where the NSI sits alongside other Divisions. This program endeavors to bridge the gap that exists in schools in the teaching and learning of physical education

Students have so been enrolled into the program, interestingly, 14 students in total for this academic year 2024. These students have also registered for Mathematics and Physical Sciences (Physics/Chemistry) courses respectively who form combinations for our PE students. By the second year, we will stream them into either one of those combinations so by the time they complete, we will graduate them as either PE/Math or PE/Science students for both High Schools (Gr.9 & 10) and Senior High School (Gr.11 & 12).

The process to enrolling our prospecting students has been long and tedious. Our next step is to ensure that we receive full accreditation from DHERST so we can attract 20 scholarships through its TESAS scheme. We anticipate that we can complete this by September this year before the Grade 12 School Leaver Forms go out for Admission (UOG) in 2025. The HMS section has all three staff involved in the program; two actively teaching courses while the other runs all the administration for program delivery for this year. Two PE courses are on offer for our 14 students this semester one. Mr Smith is lecturing in Fundamental Human Movements, while Ms Martins is teaching Foundations of Physical Education this semester.

We acknowledge the support of the Mathematics and Physical Sciences Divisions of the SOST, and especially the Dean of the School, Dr De Britto who has been the driving force behind the Director NSI and Acting HOD HMS in realizing this milestone. HMS is grateful as well to the Office of the Director, NSI and Office of the CEO, PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) for the continuous support to the section in facilitating the program.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) Athlete Development Program (ADP) has made remarkable progress since its inception in 2020, now marking its fourth year. What began with just four athletes has expanded significantly, with a current total of fifteen athletes benefiting from the program. Notably, two of the program’s pioneering athletes are currently on scholarships, pursuing training and education in the United States of America (USA).

The 2024 activities for the program have already started and athletes are hard at training. As the program also emphasizes on Education, athletes are continuing to pursue their education in various institutions. The following are athletes in the program;

1. Timothy Tuna
2. Micah Gaisane
3. Bradford Holie
4. Lot Samare
5. Damien Kote
6. Joy Tieba
7. Alphonse Igish (in the USA)
8. Jonathan Dende (in the USA)
9. Judy Mitchell
10. Pais Wisil (Queensland, Australia)

The targeted competitions for 2024 include;

• Oceania Athletics Championships (FIJI)
• Regional Athletics Championships (Highlands Momase, NGI & Southern)
• National Athletics Championships (Port Moresby)
• Olympic Games (Paris)
• World Under 20 Championship (Lima, Peru)

Since its establishment in 1979, the National Sports Institute (NSI) has stood as a beacon for sports development in Papua New Guinea. Over the years, the Institute has nurtured countless athletes, sports administrators, and sporting events providing them with the necessary training and facilities to excel in their respective disciplines. Among these facilities, the grandstand has served as a symbolic centerpiece, witnessing the triumphs and challenges of PNG’s sporting journey. However, after decades of use, the grandstand was in dire need of renovation to meet modern standards and accommodate the growing needs of athletes and spectators alike.

In a visionary move, the Eastern Highlands Province Governor, Hon. Simon Sia, initiated the grandstand renovation project to revitalize this vital part of the Institute. The project, which began under his leadership, is slated for completion by April 2024, marking a significant milestone in the Institute’s history.

The renovation of the grandstand is part of a larger effort by the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation (PNGSF) to modernize the Institute’s infrastructure. This comprehensive renovation project encompasses all aspects of the grandstand, including the seating area, facilities, and amenities. The goal is to create a state-of-the-art facility that not only meets international standards but also provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience for spectators. This is also timely as the Institute is embarking on establishing a Sports TAFE College, which requires quality facilities for its programs. One of the key focuses of the renovation is the improvement of the seating area. The old grandstand, with its aging structure and outdated facilities, no longer provided the level of comfort and safety expected in a modern sporting venue. The new design incorporates ergonomic seating arrangements, improved sightlines, and enhanced accessibility, ensuring that spectators can enjoy the action in comfort and style.

This renovation project balances upgrades to other facilities within the Institute. This includes the refurbishment of dormitories, kitchenette, mess hall, gymnasium, and outdoor courts, ensuring that athletes have access to top-notch facilities to support their training and development.

The Institute under PNGSF is very grateful for the support of Governor Hon. Simon Sia, the Eastern Highlands Provincial Government and the people of Eastern Highlands. Their commitment to support sport development and their vision to improve the Institute’s facilities to cater for the increasing demand to host sporting and non-sporting events in the province is realized in this project. The Institute pledge to take care of the renovated facility, ensuring that it remains a symbol of excellence and a hub for sporting activities in Papua New Guinea.

In conclusion, the renovation of the grandstand at the National Sports Institute is a testament to the ongoing commitment to sports development in Papua New Guinea. It represents a significant step forward in modernizing the institute’s infrastructure and providing athletes and spectators with world-class facilities. With the completion of this project, the NSI is poised to continue its legacy of excellence and nurture the next generation of sporting talent in the country

The 2023 Trukai Fun Run in Goroka was an extraordinary spectacle that showcased the town’s unity and passion for sports. This event came about as a result of a collaborative effort between Trukai Industries Limited, PNG Olympic Committee and the National Sports Institute. The event attracted an impressive turnout of participants of all ages and background, highlighting the growing importance of active lifestyles and community engagement.

The Trukai Fun Run is one of PNG Olympic Committee’s major fundraiser events from which Team PNG is sent to major international competitions such as the upcoming Pacific Games this year in Solomon Islands. NSI and Trukai Goroka demonstrated their commitment in organizing the Fun Run for Goroka while at the same time promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle within the community. Runners and walkers alike filled the streets, contributing to the festive atmosphere and creating an unforgettable experience. The institute’s dedication to fostering sports culture and encouraging participation contributed significantly to the event’s success.

NSI and Trukai could not have hosted this event successfully without the support of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary through our Police Station Commander. In acknowledging their support, Trukai donated 10kg Rice bags to Senior Inspector Josephine Kumai, OIC Traffic Goroka as well as cartons of Water. The generous donations were presented to the local police force, symbolizing a collaborative effort to appreciate the hard work and dedication of our law enforcement personnel. We also thank all the NSI staff and the ADP athletes who all assisted as Volunteers for the Trukai Fun Run on Sunday. 

Athletes in the Athlete Development Program (ADP) have had a very busy two months at NSI. These athletes are now in competition phase with increased training loads on top of their studies and assignments. Regular time trials are ongoing each weekend and that is where coaches have the opportunity to assess and evaluate their training programs based on individual performances.

The ADP 2023 team comprises both Track and Field athletes with the recent inclusion of Kenny Moalley (Morobe) last month. This year’s team is predominantly Sprints, a few Middle Distance and the Throws pair all led by Pais Wisil. Our coaching staff have fine tuned their workloads accordingly and they are looking well leading up to #PNGAir Highlands Momase Regional Athletics Championships in Goroka later this month.

Time trials are a regular activity beginning with odd races, and now into full races. Last weekend saw some quality races with each athlete demonstrating good consistent times respectively, and there were some good throws by our Javelin throwers. These serve as indicators for Head Coach Sasama and his team to assess performances against Goals set for the upcoming Championships. There is more work to be done and we anticipate the ADP team will be ready for this Meet scheduled for May 26th-27th at NSI.

RESULTS: 13-5-2023 (Times = h)

#100m Mens

1. Pais Wisil – 10.8

2. Johnny Nagahan-Bai – 11.0

3. Graham Bai – 11.1

4. Tovetuna Tuna – 11.0*

5. Micah Gaisane – 11.5

6. Bradford Holi – 11.9

#100m Mixed

1. Danny Warkit (B) – 12.5

2. Joy Tieba (W) – 13.4

3. Merna Martins (G) – 13.9

4. Nathan Kawona (B) – 14.9

5. Esso Jayson (P) – 15.9

#200m Mens (A)

1. Pais Wisil – 22.9

2. Adolf Kauba – 23.1

3. Lot Samare – 23.3

#200m Mens (B)

1. Sialis Passingan – 23.6

2. Micah Gaisane – 24.0

3. Bradford Holi – 24.6

#200m Mixed

1. Danny Warkit (B) – 26.2

2. Joy Tieba (W) – 27.6

3. Merna Martins (G) – 29.5

4. Esso Jayson (P) – 30.9

5. Nathan Kawona – 32.0

#400m Mens (A)

1. Adolf Kauba – 49.7

2. Johnny Ngahan-Bai – 50.2

3. Lot Samare – 51.0

4. Tovetuna Tuna – 50.8*

5. Sialis Passingan – 51.1

6. Graham Bai – 50.8*

#400m Womens

1. Edna Baofob – 62.0

2. Joy Tieba – 64.3

#400m Mens (B)

1. Bradford Holi – 54.7

2. Kenny Moalley – 59.5

3. Micah Gaisane – 65.4

4. Esso Jayson (P) – 70.4

#Javelin #Throw Mens

1. Kenny Moalley – 47.9m

2. Damien Kote – 52.2m

Its back to the drawing board now for the Coaches and athletes. To the others preparing for the May event, NSI will share information on the PNG Air HMRAC in due course.

The National Sports Institute (NSI) recently conducted a Primary School Sport Program (PSSP) Clinic in Kainantu District to prepare and upskill primary school teachers in the district in preparation for a Primary School Sports Carnival that will happen soon. The two-day clinic, from 9th – 10th May 2023, was attended by 17 teachers from primary schools around Kainantu District, including 12 male and 5 female teachers.

The training was aimed at building Primary School Teacher’s capacity to effectively conduct the upcoming sports carnival. Kainantu District Sports Coordinator, Mr Elmo Pasiro and Kainantu Primary School Sports President were very impressed with the training and said the training was timely as the district was preparing to conduct a sports carnival for themselves soon.

The Clinic covered various topics during the training, including Physical Education in Standard Based Curriculum (SBC), Methods in Teaching Physical Education, Volleyball Basic Skills & Rules, Touch Footy Basic Skills & Rules, First Aid, Organizing a Sport Carnival, and Lesson Planning. The training was designed to provide teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach physical education in a standard-based curriculum and effectively organize and conduct a sports carnival.

The Institute will continue to roll out similar sport clinic to other districts in Eastern Highlands Province in preparation for a primary school sports carnival, which will see the sport of Volleyball and Touch being competed. The aim of the carnival is to promote Physical Education for primary school students and encourage physical activity and sports among children in Papua New Guinea.

The NSI’s PSSP Clinic is an initiative that was launched in 2017 and is gaining momentum over the years and such a clinic helps build the capacity of primary school teachers to conduct physical education classes and organize sports carnivals. By providing teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge, the NSI is contributing to the promotion of sports and physical activity among children in Papua New Guinea, which is essential for their overall health and wellbeing.

So far, the Institute has covered two (2) Districts with a total of 34 teachers trained to help roll out the Primary School Sports Program

The National Sports Institute (NSI) recently conducted a Sports Clinic for teachers at Asaro Primary School in Daulo District, Eastern Highlands Province from 27th to 28th April 2023. The clinic was led by NSI officers, with Team Leader Mike Smith in charge.

The Sports Clinic covered a range of topics, including:

• Physical Education in Standard Based Curriculum (SBC),
• Methods in Teaching Physical Education,
• Volleyball Basic Skills & Rules,
• Touch Footy Basic Skills & Rules,
• First Aid,
• Organizing a Sport Carnival,
• Lesson Planning.

The purpose of the clinic was to upskill and prepare the teachers for the Primary School Sports Program (PSSP) event that will be conducted later this year. The clinic also aimed to equip the teachers with the necessary methodology to teach Physical education classes in their school.

The Primary School Sport Program (PSSP) is an initiative of the National Sports Institute, which began in 2017 to revive school sports in primary schools across the country. The program is expected to be rolled out to all schools, and the Sports Clinic is an integral part of this initiative to prepare teachers to implement the program effectively.

A total of 19 teachers from primary schools in Daulo District attended the Sports Clinic, with 17 males and 2 females. The clinic was officially opened by Daulo District Education Manager Mr. Kolo Singip, who expressed his appreciation to NSI for taking the time to conduct the clinic. He also thanked the teachers for attending and encouraged them to move sports forward in Daulo District.

The Sports Clinic was an excellent opportunity for the teachers to improve their skills and knowledge in sports education. With the new knowledge gained from the clinic, the teachers will be better equipped to provide quality Physical education classes and organize successful sports events for their students. The NSI’s effort to conduct the Sports Clinic is commendable, and it is hoped that more such events will be organized to promote sports in Papua New Guinea.