Electrifying weekend of Kicks 4 Kokoda tournaments in Kokoda!

This exciting sports event, a regular highlight in Oro Province, featured an exhilarating soccer tournament where teams embodied the iconic Kokoda values of Endurance, Sacrifice, Courage, and Mateship. Each team showcased their dedication and skill on the field, making for a series of heart-stopping, nail-biting matches that kept the spectators on the edge of their seats. In the end, it was Team "Sacrifice" that emerged triumphant.

We were honoured to have a special appearance from some of PNG's national HERO athletes. Denis Kopman (Karate), Hussain Lowah (Hockey), Lera Kose (Karate), Miriam Stanley (Karate), Laizany Soma (Boxing), Mea Oala (Va’a), and Dorna Longbut (Para Athlete) brought extra energy and inspiration to the day by helping referee soccer matches and engaging the crowd with volleyball games and other fun activities. 

Attendees also had the chance to visit informational booths set up by the Family and Sexual Violence Action Committee, where critical health information and resources on gender-based violence were provided. This vital outreach, in conjunction with the excitement of the tournament, helped raise awareness about a critical issue facing communities in PNG.

We were also proud to welcome Governor Gary Juffa, who delivered an empowering speech, inspiring the young players and the community alike. To cap off the day, the Australian High Commissioner, His Excellency John Feakes, had the honor of presenting the hard-earned trophies to the winning teams.

The Kicks 4 Kokoda tournament not only brings together the local community through sports but also serves as a powerful platform for education, health awareness, and social change. It is a true showcase of the transformative power of sports in remote communities.

Kicks 4 Kokoda is proudly supported by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through Team Up, and delivered in partnership with the PNG Olympic Committee and Grassroot Soccer.