World Footy News

The East Devonport Swans, who play in the Northern Tasmanian Football League, have scored an early coup in the lead-up to 2009’s NTFL season by signing two exciting players from Papua New Guinea.

Emmaus Wartovo and Willie Aisi were among the stars for the PNG Mosquitoes in last year's AFL International Cup grand final against New Zealand. The pair also played in Queensland last year on international scholarships, but returned home to PNG during the summer. According to an article by Martin Agatyn in local paper, The Advocate, “They are expected to arrive in Tasmania by mid- February, once details of their sporting visas are finalised. It is believed the signings will be the first time PNG nationals have played football for a Tasmanian club. Aisi is reported to be a speedy on-baller, while Wartovo is a handy forward who can kick goals.”

This is a fantastic achievement for AFLPNG, the junior development within the country and of course their close relationship with AFL Queensland. AFLPNG would also be pleased that the players are expected to fill junior development roles at East Devonport because one of the AFLPNG’s key planks in developing the sport is about changing lifestyles. Recruitment to a key state league within Australia and a role in developing their football, personal and management skills seems a great reward for a teenager to take up a sport such as AFL in a country other than Australia.

For more on this see PNG pair sign up with Swans.