The PNG Chiefs are pleased to welcome Struddys on board as a Major Partner of the club, forming a landmark partnership that will see the sportswear company create the first playing kits and merchandise in PNG Chiefs history.
As the official apparel and kit partner of the club, Struddys will exclusively design and manufacture the PNG Chiefs’ inaugural jersey and supply the on-field jerseys and merchandise range for the club’s first four NRL seasons from 2028 to 2031.
They will also supply the club’s training, travel, staff, pathways and community program apparel as the club’s exclusive kit supplier and merchandise partner.
The partnership builds on Struddys’ long-standing support of rugby league in Papua New Guinea, where it has developed strong and successful relationships with the PNG Hunters, the PNG Kumuls and Orchids national teams, as well as the Digicel ExxonMobil (PNGRFL) teams.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said that as the official apparel partner and jersey designer, Struddys would hold a unique place in the history of the club.
“As a club, we have so many unique first moments, and seeing our first jersey proudly being worn by Papua New Guineans right across the country is going to be one of the most special moments we will have,” McPherson said.
“Struddys will forever be the first apparel partner of the PNG Chiefs, and we are delighted to have them on board with our club to create something truly powerful.
“Struddys has shown a great knowledge and commitment to rugby league in Papua New Guinea through its work with our domestic and international teams, and we are very proud that they will be part of how our club shows itself to the world.”
“There is so much about this partnership that aligns and just makes sense,” Struddys CEO Jacob Strudwick said.
“Struddys was founded in 1975, the same year Papua New Guinea gained independence. Rugby league has run deep through both our veins for over 50 years. Our culture and values have been shaped by the game – from grassroots and community rugby league through to the semi-professional and international stage.
“Now, the time has arrived for both Struddys and the PNG Chiefs to step onto the NRL stage, and we couldn’t be more excited to be part of this historic journey.
“To know Struddys will be there from the very beginning, helping create the first jerseys that will represent the PNG Chiefs, their supporters, and the people of Papua New Guinea, is incredibly special. We can’t wait to deliver apparel that this country and its passionate supporter base can be truly proud to wear.”
In addition to exclusive rights as team apparel and kit supplier, Struddys’ long-term partnership with the PNG Chiefs also includes match-day signage, hospitality, digital integration and engagement with the club’s leadership and business network.