Gene enthusiastic to give back to PNG rugby
PNG Kumuls great Stanley Gene is excited for his new job with Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League following his appointment as the Coach Development Manager.
Gene has held various coaching posts in England since retiring from professional rugby league and securing his service would continue the development of rugby league in PNG.
The Kumul no.166 said he is optimistic to carry on the current work done by PNGRFL to elevate the standard of local coaches and the clubs as PNG prepares for an historic NRL entry in 2028.
“To be given the opportunity of helping and giving back to our local coaches is something I am very excited about and I cannot wait to get out to the clubs and start,” Gene said.
“I am very passionate about rugby league as this game gave me the opportunity to fulfil my dreams in playing and now coaching.
“I would like to thank the PNGRFL for giving me the opportunity to come and work with the team who have done so much in bringing the game to the next level.”
The former Goroka Lahanis stalwart was the head coach of Gateshead Thunder and assistant coach at Hull KR side in Super League. He was also the head coach of Hull KR Academy team whilst bidding his time in United Kingdom.
Gene’s immediate focus in the new role will be to support all Digicel ExxonMobil Cup coaches in the 2025 season.
He has been tasked to create a Talent Identification Program for coaches across the country. This program will focus on coaches who are identified and want to progress into the club pathways programs and beyond.
PNGRFL chief executive officer Stanley Hondina said the inclusion of Gene is a boost to PNG rugby given his experience and exposure abroad.
“His recent experience in coaching in the Super League and Academy programs will be of great benefit to our clubs,” Hondina said.
“As we continue to drive to improve the game, the importance of coaching at Youth, Santos Cup and Digicel ExxonMobil Cup level is critical.
“Stanley returning from England to help grow and develop the game is another wonderful step forward for PNG.
“As a player who had such a distinguished playing career and represented our country with pride, having him back in the country and available to serve at the PNGRFL is a great opportunity.”
Gene's outstanding playing career includes playing for Goroka Lahanis in 1993-94 before joining the Lae Bombers the following year.
He then played over 350 games in the English Super League and First Division competition in a career spanning over 17 years at top level Rugby League.
He represented the PNG Kumuls in 16 Test Matches including 3 World Cups.