THE current PNG darts team attending the 4^th South Pacific Darts Championship in Suva, Fiji have been selected based on ranking system, an official says.

National Darts Federation of PNG president Molean Kilepak said “The national team was selected based on a ranking system we introduced as part of our membership to the World Darts Federation (WDF).

“During WDF Annual General Meeting, PNG was endorsed membership on Sept 24, 2024 in Bratislava, Slovakia. This essentially means our registered darts players become eligible to participate in WDF ranked events.”

He said the ranking system is based on statistics collated during all sanctioned Federation events since 2023.

“This is part of the new formats introduced by the new executive, who were voted into office in 2022 at Kavieng, New Ireland Province.”

“Points were derived from Singles, Doubles, Team events at the 17^th National Darts Titles in Kokopo, ENBP and at the Champion of Champions (Club) Championships in Lae in 2023.”

He said the ranking is the first of its kind as the code improves and progresses forward.

“An initial list of 20 men and women players were selected but the final list was made based on those with passports and availability to fly out on short notice due to funding availability. Thus, the final list is only for 6 men and 6 women.”

“We initially included two youths under 18years for both men and women’s teams. Two youth players from Kokopo District Darts Association were also selected in the final 6. However, they did not participate due to funding issues.

The final team confirmed are:Cornwall Lahui Rudolph, Ginate Geita, Tamasi Arua, Ikau Karo, Arua Leke, Simon Maino (Men) Patricia Maurice, Merolyn Bamateng, Loa Joel, Mabel Maino, Sandra Navuru, Sarah Pepena (Women)

“There are no reserves due to financial reasons so we do hope everyone stays in good health until the end. We are grateful to have two Fiji based female players join the Team. This cuts down on extra financial costings.”

“Given the non-availability of the Kokopo based youth player, we have selected Simon Maino. He is the husband of Mabel Maino, a top Fiji female player. Mabel Maino also plays here in Fiji. Simon Maino will be the 6^th player for the Men’s team.”

“Kind individual sponsorship from our friends have enabled us to buy our opening wear. They also helped us acquire uniforms.”

“We are also grateful to the Maino family here in Suva for the assistance rendered so far.”

“I further call on our PNG Community in Suva, Fiji to come and support us. The Games will be held at the Metro Events Center,” he added.