Irianese rugby team to play in Darwin

Irianese rugby team to play in Darwin

TIMIKA, Irian Jaya (JP): Irian Jaya is often in the news for
the independence movement there, but most people are probably not
aware that the province also has a world-class rugby team.

The team, known here as the Koteka Rugby team, will take part
in the seventh International Rugby Championship in Darwin,
Australia, from Jan. 29 to Jan. 31.

Coach Paul Guaglia said the championship would allow the team
to play with seven players. "This type of play is most suitable
for Papuans," he told The Jakarta Post on Tuesday. The House of
Representatives is expected to officially change the province's
name to Papua.

Paul, who is also one of the team's backs, said the Koteka
Rugby team would be the sole representative from Indonesia in the
international championship. He said the team was earlier invited
to attend another international championship in Guam.

"The two championships are held at the same time so we picked
the championship in Darwin," he said, adding that the team would
depart for Australia on Jan. 29.

The team consists of six forwards (William Simopiaref, Leo
Emani, Bonny Rumpaidus, George Deda, Anthon Wambrau and Senie
Pakage), five backs (Petrus Rumaropen, Yerobeam Yarangga,
Tofinus, Matius Krey and Paul) and two foreign players (Tony
Sampel and Jasoon).

The team recently took part in the Bali International Ten
Championship in October, finishing fourth out of 18 teams.(eba)