Team PNG athletes and officials converged at the Sir John Guise Indoor Stadium today for a vibrant and spirited team bonding event, a crucial step in their preparation for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games in Palau.

The day-long gathering brought together over 150 athletes and officials in a celebration of unity, national pride, and team culture, guided by the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC). The event featured a range of activities designed to disseminate important Games information, strengthen relationships, reinforce shared values, and prepare Team PNG to represent the nation with pride.

The program commenced with a moving devotion by the Gavuone Urban Fellowship and a powerful rendition of the National Anthem and Pledge by students from Gordon International School.

PNGOC President Emma Waiwai officially welcomed Team PNG, congratulating all who earned their place on the team. She emphasized that the day was not about competition but about building genuine connections, fostering a deeper bond among team members, clarifying purpose, and renewing the spirit of unity.

Team PNG was privileged to hear from former athlete and General Management Team member, Xenia Peni, who shared her inspiring journey. Peni, who represented PNG in Swimming at the Olympic and Pacific Games, and Va’a at the 2005 and 2015 Pacific Games, encouraged athletes to understand their “why” – their motivation for training, competing, and giving their all.

Team PNG’s Chef de Mission for Palau 2025, Kinivanagi Karo, underscored the importance of unity and shared purpose in his remarks. “Team PNG is more than just a group of athletes. We are one team, one spirit, and one voice,” said Karo.

“This bonding experience is about understanding that we each play a part in lifting our country, both on and off the field. This is where our journey as a team truly begins.”

Athletes also received addresses from the Chair of the Athletes Commission, Andrew Molen, and on the importance of Safeguarding by Asiani Vagi. Interactive sessions, creatively named after iconic Palau landmarks like Jellyfish Lake, Rock Islands, and Milky Way Lagoon, grouped athletes by functional areas such as Media, Medical, Performance, Safeguarding, Anti-doping, and the Athletes Commission.

The event concluded with a lively team walkout practice, a spirited performance of the official Team PNG song, and a team lunch, allowing athletes and officials to connect in a relaxed setting.

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee extends its sincere gratitude to Coca-Cola Europacific Partners for their generous donation of 10 cases of beverages, and the Papua New Guinea Sports Foundation for providing the venue at Sir John Guise Stadium. Their support played a vital role in the success of this event.

With the countdown to Palau 2025 now officially underway, the Team Bonding Day marked a meaningful step in ensuring Team PNG heads into competition united, motivated, and ready to make the nation proud.