Registered teams did not attend the launch of the Western Highlands Governors Cup

182 registered teams are set to participate in this year's Western Highlands Governor's Cup, but none attended the competition's launch last Friday at Queens Park in Mt. Hagen.

Despite prior outreach efforts made across the province's four districts, not a single team was present at the kickoff event.

Western Highlands Governor Wai Rapa expressed frustration, stating that teams should have been prepared to attend the launch and hear from the leaders before stepping onto the field.

Governor Rapa emphasized the unity among leaders in the Western Highlands, highlighting their commitment to instigating change through initiatives like the Governor's Cup.

He urged the participating teams, along with support from local businesses and individuals, to take this competition seriously and pay attention to the information shared during the event.

An anonymous district official associated with the Governor's Cup explained that the lack of attendance was due to inadequate awareness efforts.

He noted that the outreach did not extend to local-level government [LLG] and ward levels, where the teams originate.

Awareness activities were limited to the district headquarters, and there was insufficient coordination with LLG officials, which contributed to the absence of the teams.

Additionally, logistical issues played a part in the attendance problem.

Despite these challenges, the Governor's Cup was officially launched, and games are scheduled to begin on Friday, November 29, in the respective districts.