Members of the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII men’s and women’s teams recently joined young Papua New Guineans in Port Moresby for a special community clinic delivered through the NRL in PNG’s League Bilong Laif (LBL) program.

The 200 primary school students were also joined by the Australian Schoolboys and Schoolgirls squads.

League Bilong Laif, supported by Australia, uses rugby league as a platform to promote the values of teamwork, respect, courage, belief and inclusion while developing fundamental rugby league skills.

Australian Women’s Prime Minister’s XIII Coach Jess Skinner said the clinic was about more than rugby league, providing an opportunity for players to share important life lessons with young people.

“One of the key things we are doing here is sharing messages about healthy living, staying active, eating well and the importance of being a good teammate, while displaying sportsmanship both on and off the rugby league field,” Coach Skinner said.

PNG Prime Minister’s XIII Women’s Coach Cathy Neap said the clinic created meaningful opportunities for young people to connect with their sporting heroes.

“It's always special when the Australian teams come over to meet young people here. They get the chance to meet role models they normally only see on television, helping to build connections and strengthen the people-to-person relationship between our two countries,” Coach Neap said.

The participation of Prime Minister’s XIII players created a memorable experience for participants, giving young Papua New Guineans the opportunity to learn directly from some of the game's biggest stars.

Beyond sharing their rugby league expertise, the players inspired participants to pursue their goals, value education and make positive contributions to their communities.