A strong 2015 season from the PNG Hunters has caught the eye of several outside clubs – with Australian and United Kingdom teams taking an interest in some of their stars of this past year.
Willie ‘The Freight Train’ Minoga has signed with last year’s Intrust Super Cup minor premiers the Townsville Blackhawks, while inaugural Hunters skipper Israel Eliab is off to London after signing a one-year deal with the Broncos.
Two more stars from last year’s squad – versatile back Katio Ottio and youngster Warren Glare – have also both signed trial-and-train contracts with NRL clubs.
For this new season, the Hunters have signed up a number of players from the Digicel Cup – helping to strengthen the pathway opportunities in the country.
Gains:
Justin Olam (Lae Snax Tigers), Gonzella Urakusie (Goroka Lahanis), Konnie Bernard (Agmark Gurias), BJ Wanamis (Lae Snax Tigers), Rex Yellon (Enga Mioks), Gahuna Silas (Gulf Isapeas), Ismael Waine-Lae (Highlands Confederate), Tuvi Lepan (Agmark Gurias), Bernard Lama (Lae Snax Tigers), Watson Boas (Agmark Gurias), Ishamel Baikawa (Lae Snax Tigers), Anderson Benford (Lae Snax Tigers), Mafu Kalas (Lae Snax Tigers), Benjamin Hetra (Hela Wigman), Sam Maniat (Northern Confederate), Leon Lati (Northern Confederate), Enock Siune (TNA Lions)
Losses:
Willie Minoga (Townsville Blackhawks), Kato Ottio (Canberra Raiders – trial and train), Warren Glare (Cronulla Sharks – trial and train), Israel Eliab (London Broncos), Roger Laka (retired - Hunters coaching staff), Sebastian Pandia (released), Jay Garrison (released)
Where they finished in 2015: 2nd (eliminated Week 3 of the finals)
2016 coach: Michael Marum
Other clubs:
CQ Capras
Wynnum Manly Seagulls
Norths Devils
Redcliffe Dolphins
Northern Pride
Souths Logan Magpies
Townsville Blackhawks
Burleigh Bears
Tweed Heads Seagulls
