Ave RLC unveils powerhouse roster for JT Super 9s

Some members of Ave after training at Sir John Guise Stadium (Image: Supplied)

The Ave Rugby League Club are aiming for a strong return in JT Super 9s, unveiling a blistering roster for this month’s campaign.

Following a 2-year suspension, Ave are back with a strategic blend of international experience, provincial standouts, and raw village speed, positioning itself as a favorite to claim the prestigious 9s title in March.

Leading the pack is veteran captain Josh Erico. A two-time Kokomo 9s champion in Brisbane with the SSG Roosters, Erico brings a level of tactical brilliance and winning flair that few in the local circuit can match.

Supporting him as vice captain is Thomas Kaikai. Fresh off securing back-to-back Sepik 9s titles with the Funeral Home Laumas, Kaikai’s aggressive leadership and championship mindset are expected to be the glue that holds the Ave defensive line together.

Whildst embracing the service of veteran Winstan Wemi, former PNG 7s star Fred Rova and current Pukpuks squad member Eddie Ramit, the club has also made several clinical recruitment to boost their campaign in the Moresby South tournament.

A significant new arrival is former Enga Mioks and Central Dabaris standout fullback Junior Bobby. The Gulf Province product is expected to provide the tactical edge in the backline, bringing elite-level composure to the fast-paced 9s format.

Joining him is a fleet of speedstars and finishers including Allan Djaun, Henry Sukumbal, Peter Paike, Cyril Seiba, Joshua Winnie, and Arebo Vagau.

The 9s champion club have also named a powerhouse and versatile forward pack.

Ave owner Don Pio (in purple) with the squad as they prepare for JT 9s senior men's division clash (Image: Supplied)

Moses Akali, a block-busting prop from Hela and a genuine Digicel ExxonMobil Cup prospect, will headline the middle. He is joined by Sam Waripe, a modern second-rower who possesses the powerhouse frame of a forward but the agility of a center.

The squad is rounded out by Charlie Nick, a utility powerhouse from Inauabui, and Willie Triang Elison, who brings the gritty energy of the Gerehu Natives to the Ave family.

The Don Pio-coached side will also unleash some of its homegrown talents to the JT 9s stage.

The club has confirmed the return of Jessy Kandato. A product of the Ave development system, Kandato rose from the ranks to become a 2024 Hidomo 9s Champion.

Also making a highly anticipated debut is Andrew Solo from Viriolo. A former Central Dabaris and Hela Wigmen elite, Solo is expected to be a wall in defense while providing explosive runs in attack.

Club founder Don Pio said Ave are anticipating a touch competition against rival teams for the rugby 9s competition.

"We're bringing a competitive squad for the upcoming tournament. Learning from our previous campaign, we won't take any team lightly," Pio told NBC News.

"Our aim is to give more opportunity to local talents while also gunning for the championship tag."

Ave RLC are placed in pool A alongside Gorobe Panthers, Subcity Raiders and Tuna Bay.

The JT 9s senior men's division games will start on March 11 at the Moresby South Stadium in Kaugere.