Team PNG aims to make impact: Chef de Mission

The March 29th tree planting does not take Team PNG’s focus away from its main goal, which is to make an impact at the Samoa Games.

Team PNG’s 2019 Chef de Mission says their aim is to finish at the number one spot.

Athletes are at the heart of the Olympic movement, hence the PNG Olympic Committee aims to ensure that they perform at their best.

Chef de Mission for Team PNG to Samoa 2019, Emma Waiwai, stressed that everything they do is for PNG’s athletes.

“Because on the day, we can shout and scream and do everything but it’s you that’s going to win the medal for us,” Waiwai told members of Team PNG during a media blitz on Friday.

She explained that the Olympic Committee opted to plant mangroves to mark the 100-day countdown in an effort to encourage athletes to not only be champions in sport, but also be responsible citizens of PNG.

“You are the ones that will have to take the message back to your community and tell them about not throwing plastic bags into the sea, and as much as possible, try to use things that are biodegradable.

“You athletes, don’t forget, you are very influential.”

Meantime, Team PNG will be holding their Team Bonding event in May in Port Moresby where all team members will gather for orientation activities and also an introduction to other teammates.

The Team will depart Port Moresby for Apia on the 4th of July before the Games Opening Ceremony, which will be held on the 7th of July.

(Chef de Mission for Team PNG to Samoa 2019, Emma Waiwai)

Author: 
Carmella Gware