Madang Province has successfully completed its Under-16 trials and is now preparing to participate in the upcoming OFC Under-16 tournament in April.

The province concluded its trials and final matches over the weekend at Laiwaden Oval, selecting players who will advance to the next stage of preparations for the regional competition.

Susan Watpore, PNGFA Women’s Development Officer and U16 Women’s National Team Coach, confirmed that 10 players from Madang have been selected to attend further trials in Lae to finalize the Under-16 squad.

“So far, 10 players have been selected to go for further trials in Lae,” she said.

Watpore explained that Lae had already completed its trials, selecting 12 players, while Port Moresby and Madang wrapped up theirs yesterday.

She said the Under-16 girls' team will compete in the OFC National Tournament in Port Moresby in April, which Papua New Guinea will host. The tournament is significant, as it will determine qualification for the second leg of the competition to be held in the Solomon Islands in September.

Watpore expressed satisfaction with the strong turnout of players, parents, and teachers who showed their support during the trials. She encouraged parents and teachers to continue supporting their children’s involvement in sports.

She also urged parents to ensure their children’s personal documents, including NID cards and passports, are prepared in advance.

Watpore further emphasized that players who do not make the final selection should remain committed to training and development. She highlighted the need for Madang to establish a Centre of Excellence to nurture young talent and strengthen future selections.

“This is about building the future of women’s football in the province,” she said.