**INTERVIEW: Adrian Lam on Being Appointed Head Coach of the New PNG NRL Team**
In a historic moment for rugby league, Adrian Lam, a legendary figure in the sport, has been announced as the head coach of Papua New Guinea’s new National Rugby League (NRL) team. This groundbreaking appointment marks a turning point for the sport in Papua New Guinea, a nation where rugby league is more than a game—it’s a way of life. Following his appointment, Lam spoke at length about his vision, the challenges ahead, and what this moment means to him personally and professionally.
—
### **Q: Congratulations, Adrian, on this historic appointment! How does it feel to be named head coach of PNG’s new NRL team?**
**Adrian Lam**: Thank you! This is an incredible honor, and it feels like a full-circle moment for me. Papua New Guinea has always held a special place in my heart. Rugby league is a religion here, and to lead a team that represents the hopes and dreams of an entire nation is humbling. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited to get started.
—
### **Q: What inspired you to take on this role?**
**Adrian Lam**: I’ve always been passionate about the growth of rugby league, particularly in Papua New Guinea. As someone with PNG heritage, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this sport resonates with the people. When the chance came to not just coach a team but to shape the foundation of an NRL franchise, it was impossible to say no. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to elevate PNG rugby league to the world stage.
—
### **Q: You mentioned shaping the foundation of the team. What will be your immediate priorities as head coach?**
**Adrian Lam**: The first priority is building the right culture. This team needs to reflect the passion, resilience, and unity that Papua New Guinea embodies. We’ll also focus on identifying and nurturing local talent while blending that with experienced players who can mentor and lead. Recruitment, building our coaching staff, and setting up high-performance structures will be crucial in the initial stages.
—
### **Q: Speaking of talent, PNG has a rich pool of players. How do you plan to tap into that?**
**Adrian Lam**: PNG is a goldmine for rugby league talent. The challenge is providing these players with the resources and guidance to compete at an elite level. We’ll be investing heavily in scouting and development programs. I want to ensure that every talented young player in PNG knows there’s a pathway to the NRL through this team.
At the same time, we’ll look to bring in experienced players from other NRL teams and leagues around the world to create a balanced squad. It’s about blending raw, passionate local talent with seasoned professionals who can help us compete immediately.
—
### **Q: Establishing a new team in the NRL is no small task. What are some challenges you anticipate?**
**Adrian Lam**: One of the biggest challenges will be the learning curve for local players making the jump to the NRL level. The pace, physicality, and skill required in the NRL are unmatched, and we’ll need to prepare our players for that step up.
Logistics will also be a challenge. Travel between PNG and Australia, managing training facilities, and balancing our schedule will require careful planning. But these are all challenges we’re ready to face head-on because the rewards far outweigh the difficulties.
—
### **Q: Let’s talk about the fans. PNG fans are known for their passion. How important will they be in this journey?**
**Adrian Lam**: The fans are everything. Papua New Guineans live and breathe rugby league, and their energy will be the heartbeat of this team. I’ve experienced that passion as a player and coach, and I know how powerful it can be. This team is not just for the players and staff—it’s for the entire nation. I want our fans to feel like they’re part of every victory and every step forward.
—
### **Q: What kind of playing style can fans expect from the team?**
**Adrian Lam**: I want this team to play fast, aggressive, and fearless rugby league. PNG players naturally bring flair and physicality to the game, and I want to harness that while instilling structure and discipline. We’ll be a team that fights for every meter and never gives up—much like the spirit of Papua New Guinea itself.
—
### **Q: You’ve had a storied career as both a player and a coach. How will your experience influence your approach?**
**Adrian Lam**: My journey through rugby league has taught me a lot about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. As a player, I learned the importance of resilience and teamwork, while my coaching career has given me the tools to bring out the best in others.
Having coached at various levels, including in the NRL and Super League, I know what it takes to compete in this environment. I’ll draw on those experiences to build a team that’s not just competitive but one that PNG can be proud of.
—
### **Q: You’ve mentioned national pride several times. What does this team mean for PNG on a broader scale?**
**Adrian Lam**: This team represents more than just rugby league. It’s a symbol of hope, unity, and ambition for Papua New Guinea. When this team takes the field, it’s not just about winning games—it’s about showing the world what PNG is capable of. I believe this team can inspire future generations and contribute to the nation’s development in a meaningful way.
—
### **Q: What’s your long-term vision for the team?**
**Adrian Lam**: Long-term, I want this team to be a powerhouse in the NRL—a team that consistently competes for championships. Beyond that, I want it to serve as a catalyst for the growth of rugby league in PNG. I’d love to see more PNG players in the NRL and other top leagues around the world.
This team should also play a role in strengthening the rugby league infrastructure in PNG, from grassroots to elite levels. Ultimately, I want this team to leave a legacy that lasts for generations.
—
### **Q: Finally, what message do you have for the people of Papua New Guinea?**
**Adrian Lam**: To the people of PNG, I want to say thank you for your unwavering support of rugby league. This team belongs to you, and everything we do will be for you. We’ll work tirelessly to make you proud and to represent PNG with honor and passion. Together, we can achieve something truly special.
—
### **Conclusion**
Adrian Lam’s appointment as head coach of Papua New Guinea’s new NRL team is a monumental step forward for rugby league in the region. With his experience, passion, and vision, Lam is poised to lead the team to success while inspiring a nation. His commitment to nurturing local talent, building a winning culture, and honoring PNG’s rich rugby league heritage sets the stage for an exciting chapter in the sport’s history.
As the team begins its journey, all eyes will be on Adrian Lam and his players, who now carry the hopes and dreams of an entire nation. For Papua New Guinea, the NRL dream is no longer just a dream—it’s becoming a reality.
