Pawa Meri round returns to honour women in rugby league

Friday, 8 August 2025, 4:43 pm

Santos National Football Stadium will play host to Pawa Meri round in Port Moresby (Image: Supplied)

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League [PNGRFL] has reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusivity in sport with the return of the Pawa Meri Round this weekend with a special event dedicated to honouring the role of women in the game of rugby league.

Now in its second year, the Pawa Meri round will see the SP PNG Hunters, Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, and Santos Cup competitions join forces to celebrate women across all levels of the rugby league ecosystem from players and coaches to team managers, trainers, and support staff.

“This round acknowledges the continued contribution that women in league make both on and off the field,” PNGRFL chief executive officer Stanley Hondina said. “All players, game day staff, and officials will wear bright pink socks as a visible tribute.”

In addition, the SP PNG Hunters will wear special Pawa Meri jerseys when they take on the Western Clydesdales in their Hostplus Cup Round 20 clash at Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday.

Hondina said the Pawa Meri Round is part of PNGRFL’s broader Wan Haus Policy, which promotes respect, equality, and inclusion within the sport. The event also aligns with the upcoming PNGRFL Gender Equality Strategy, set to be launched later this year.

“The Pawa Meri Round is not just about celebration, but a call for continued progress. We stand against all forms of gender-based violence and play with respect,” he said.

The initiative also highlights the growth of the women’s game in PNG, following the successful establishment of the National Women’s Rugby League Competition, which has been a major step forward for female athletes in the country.

The weekend's fixtures under the Pawa Meri event include the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup round 17 fixtures in Port Moresby, Minj and Lae, second round of Santos Cup and Hostplus Cup round 20 match between SP PNG Hunters and Western Clydesdales on Sunday at National Football Stadium.

PNGRFL has called on fans, communities, and corporate partners to show their support by attending the games and joining the movement to empower women in sport.

“We’re proud of the women who’ve contributed to the game in the past and present, and we look forward to growing this celebration each year,” Hondina said.