DIGICEL Exxon Mobil (DEM) Cup premiership winning half Lynchill Kiap is embracing every opportunity with the SP PNG Hunters after been named in the 2025 preseason squad.

Claiming his first premiership title with the Wamp NGA Mt. Hagen Eagles this year, Kiap said receiving a nod to train in the Hunters preseason squad was one of many goals he hoped to achieve.

“This preseason has been tough but a great exposure for someone like me, this is my first time joining the camp but I have learnt so many things from the senior players and coaches.”

Originally from Enga but born and raised in Mt. Hagen, Kiap started his rugby career in the Hagen League competition.

He played for the Kunai Brothers team before competing in the School Boys rugby competition that earned him his spot with the Junior PNG Kumuls in 2017.

Kiap made his debut with Enga Mioks in the Intercity cup competition however made a move into Mt. Hagen Eagles side and played for two seasons and claimed a premiership title.

“That was a highlight for me but like every other individual here in the camp, the goal is to don that Hunters Jersey or even the PNG Kumuls jumper in the future.”

“It will take a lot of hard work and commitment and I am here to embrace every learning opportunity during this preseason,” he added.

He said working with Hunters premiership winning Hooker turned coach Wartovo Puara Jnr and other senior Hunters players has helped him through the past few weeks.

“I have learnt a lot of drills including tackling techniques, passes and other defensive drills. It is an eye opener and I am keen to learn more during this preseason.”