A three-day soccer tournament featuring 13 teams concluded on December 31st, 2025, in Kaparoko village, Rigo District, marking the end of the sporting year for Central Province.

The annual tournament which began on Monday, December 29th, 2025, was organized to raise funds in support of student pastors and ordained pastors who returned to the village for the holiday period.

Funds raised will help them prepare to return to their respective United Church circuits and theological colleges to continue their studies and ministry work. The event also formed part of Kaparoko’s festive season celebrations.

The tournament attracted strong competition, featuring several PNG National Representatives and National Premier League (NPL) players who hail from Kaparoko, a small fishing village and the home of the Koupa Soccer Association.

PNG women’s national players Phylis Pala, Anasta Gunemba Kila, and Kila Dou took part in the tournament, alongside Premier Soccer League (PSL) players from reigning champions Gulf Komara, including Ezekiel Vela, Ronald Reggy, Geno Clement, and Karo Kila.

Other notable players included Stanley Karo of Kula FC, Wally David of Highlands United, and Kule Lesly of Hekari United FC.

Players from the PNG U18 Men’s National Youth team and Central Amoana FC also participated. The teams were led by PNG’s renowned striking legend, Rev. Kema Jack.

Meanwhile, a children’s soccer festival for boys and girls aged 6 to 12 is scheduled to run from Thursday, January 1 to Saturday, January 3, 2026, continuing the village’s commitment to grassroots football development.

The annual tournament as well as the upcoming children’s festival, are sponsored by the president of the Koupa Soccer Association and his siblings.

Organizers say the event continues to strengthen community ties while supporting church work and football development in the region.