The Papua New Guinea Hunters rugby league team have re-appointed Matt Church as coach for the 2022 Intrust Super Cup season.
Matt Church issues instructions during a pre-season training session in Port Moresby. Photo: Facebook / SP PNG Hunters
The Australian was first appointed to the role almost two years ago but has only been able to coach the team in 18 games across two seasons because of the disruption caused by Covid-19.
The Hunters squad relocated to Queensland this year in order to retain their place in the Intrust Super Cup and finished 10th in the 14-team competition, with six wins and 11 defeats.
The Hunters board voted unanimously to reappoint Church for a third campaign at the helm after he steered the team through the challenges of 2021.
"We are delighted to reappoint Matt Church given how he and his staff handled a difficult year," Hunters Chairman Stan Joyce said.
"The Hunters played extremely well in parts of this season and we know what the team is capable of with the 2021 experience under their belts. Matt is a high-quality coach and he
has put in place the building blocks for an exciting 2022," he said.
Papua New Guinea Hunters coach Matt Church. Photo: Supplied
Matt Church was pleased to extend his role as Hunters coach and is already looking forward to next season.
"I would like to thank Hunters Chairman Stan Joyce and the Hunters board members for their faith in me," he said.
"This year threw up numerous challenges but next year brings with it similar tests so the benefit of experience will be significant for us. Our players developed strongly this year by
living through these challenges and I know they will be ready to go again in 2022.
"I would like to acknowledge Hunters' sponsors, partners and stakeholders during these times and personally I'd finally like to thank my wife and family for their love and support. I
look forward to being back in front of the group and leading the Hunters towards a strong year in 2022."
The Hunters squad will return to Queensland next season due to the ongoing international travel challenges caused by the global pandemic.
Stan Joyce said the Hunters would complete their pre-season preparations in Port Moresby from mid-November before relocating to the Sunshine State at the end of January.
"The board has to begin preparations for next season and, without the prospect of quarantine-free travel in the short-term, we must look towards another season based in
Queensland," he said.
"While we would love to play at home again, we must ensure that the Hunters continue to play in the Intrust Super Cup, further developing our pathways to the highest levels of rugby
league."
The 2021 Intrust Super Cup season will be decided on Sunday with the Norths Devils and Wynnum Manly Seagulls squaring off in the grand final.