Kula FC deeply rooted in cultural ties: Tomuriesa backs new Milne Bay Club in PSL

Milne Bay’s newly established football club, Kula FC, has been officially welcomed into the Papua New Guinea Premier Soccer League [PSL], with leaders urging the team to honor their cultural heritage as they represent the province on the national stage.

Club patron and Alotau MP Ricky Morris said the name “Kula” carries deep cultural meaning, symbolising unity and identity across Milne Bay. He described the club as a reminder of traditional roots, now embedded in the sport of football.

“This club also reminds us of our traditional roots, and it unites the entirety of Milne Bay,” Morris said while welcoming the players to Port Moresby.

The team’s name pays tribute to the historic Kula Trade, a traditional exchange system that once spanned Milne Bay and the broader Southern region. Leaders hope this legacy will inspire players to carry their cultural pride into every match.

Kiriwina-Goodenough MP and Opposition Leader Douglas Tomuriesa urged players to wear the Kula FC jersey with pride, reminding them that they represent not just a team, but an entire province steeped in tradition.

“When you put on the Kula jersey, you're not just a soccer player, you're representing a culture deeply rooted in Milne Bay. You represent chiefs, clans, families, and your tribe,” he said.

Tomuriesa committed K100,000 in support of the team’s inaugural season and encouraged other provincial leaders to get behind the club.

He expressed confidence in the team’s potential, boasting that Kula FC would not just participate, but compete strongly, showcasing the footballing talent of Milne Bay.

“You’ll prove that it’s not about height, but skill. You will show the country how soccer is truly played,” he added, with a smile.

The team arrived in Port Moresby this week, where they’ll be based for six months as they take part in the Papua New Guinea Football Association-managed competition.

National Capital District Governor Powes Parkop, whilst commending the club patron for the initiative, welcomed the team to the city and announced a K50,000 donation, highlighting sport as a valuable tool for youth development and economic growth.

“Sports brings value to our city. It promotes tourism, SMEs, and creates opportunities. I encourage the players to go out and be competitive,” Parkop said.
PNGFA chief operations officer Stanley Kana also welcomed Kula FC, saying their arrival was timely as PNG prepares to endorse two clubs for the upcoming Oceania Professional League — the region’s first-ever professional football competition.

“The competition is tough with 11 clubs from 8 provinces now involved,” he told the new blocks of PSL

“PNG has been given two spots for the Oceania league. If fortunate, we’ll take both. If not, just one, but that spot must be earned,” Kana explained.

“Clubs like Kula FC are coming in at just the right time. They are part of the talent pipeline for future professional teams.”