SP PNG Hunters rising talent McWin Worinu says every appearance at the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) level has been a valuable learning experience as he continues to establish himself in the club’s senior squad.
After making his debut earlier this season, Worinu has now played three matches for the Hunters, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding following a frustrating period on the sidelines through injury.
“The first three games were a little bit tough for me because I'd been out with injuries and was struggling a little,” Worinu said.
"But ever since I was a kid, I have always had the desire to play. Coming back from injury, I never thought I'd get the opportunity to make my debut this year.”
“Everything happened so fast after my first game against the Tweed Seagulls, and now I've played three games.”
Worinu admitted the step up from the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup to the QRL has been significant but said he is embracing the challenge.
“It is a different level from what we are used to in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup. To be here, experiencing new opportunities and learning every week, it's really a blessing for me.”
Originally from Mt Hagen in Western Highlands province, Worinu only began his representative rugby league journey in 2023 with Croton Hela Wigmen before earning a call-up to the Hunters’ pre-season squad late last year.
“I started playing with the Kroton Hela Wigmen in 2023. Around November last year, I got the call to join the Hunters’ pre-season, and now I am here.”
“Making the SP PNG Hunters has long been a personal ambition,” he said.
“Playing for the Hunters has always been my dream. I have worked towards it every week through my football and my performances.”
“Achieving that goal means a lot, and now I'm looking forward to reaching the next level.”
Despite the Hunters enduring a difficult campaign, Worinu remains focused on improving his own game while trusting the coaching staff to guide the team forward.
“Obviously, we have been struggling this year, but that’s something for the coaches to work through,” he stated. “For me, I just want to keep learning as much as I can and improve as a player.”
Worinu also praised the leadership within the squad, crediting the team’s captain for keeping spirits high during a challenging season.
“Our skipper has been a big influence. He is always turning negatives into positives. We look up to him because he keeps motivating us, no matter what is being said from outside the club.”
“People do not always see the work we put in every day, from morning until the evening. It has been a tough year, but our skipper is always there encouraging the boys.”
Meanwhile, Worinu will miss this weekend’s match after receiving a one-game suspension but remains confident the Hunters can produce a strong performance.
“We want the win just as much as everyone else. The boys have prepared well this week, and we are really looking forward to the game.”
Although disappointed to miss the clash, Worinu said the suspension was a learning experience.
“It is all part of the game. I will learn from it, move on, and keep working hard.”
