Tigers receive mid-season boost with K100,000 support from LCA

Lae MP and Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso (left) handing over the cheque to Tigers team manager Roy Kela *(Image: Supplied)*

The Lae Snax Tigers Rugby League Club has received a significant boost to its 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup campaign with a K100,000 sponsorship from the Lae City Authority.

The cheque was presented by Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae, John Rosso, who also serves as Chairman of the LCA. During the presentation, DPM Rosso commended the Tigers’ management, coaching staff, and players for their commitment to excellence and for proudly representing Lae City and Morobe Province on the national stage.

He also acknowledged the Chow family for their enduring contribution to sports development in Lae.

“The Chow family, through the Lae Biscuit Company, has contributed immensely to various sporting codes in Lae over many years,” Rosso said. “It is only fitting that we support them through the Lae Snax Tigers.”

In a further show of support for grassroots development, Rosso also announced an additional K100,000 funding allocation from LCA to the Lae Schools Rugby League competition. The funding will support school-based programs and competitions throughout the city.

“I would like to thank Ian Chow and the Lae Biscuit Company for their support of the schools’ rugby league program. This initiative provides a positive outlet for young people, helping to keep them away from drugs, alcohol, and other social issues,” Rosso added.

Team Manager Roy Kela expressed gratitude for the continued support from the LCA and Deputy Prime Minister, describing it as a reflection of true visionary leadership for Lae City.

“On behalf of our sponsor, Lae Biscuit Company, our management, coaching staff, and players, I sincerely thank DPM Rosso and the LCA for their unwavering support,” Kela said. “Your commitment has played a vital role in our success, including back-to-back grand final victories.”

Tigers Head Coach Noel Zeming also highlighted the team’s growing development pathway, noting that the Lae Snax Tigers Academy’s Under-19 and Women’s teams are set to begin their competitions soon.