World Footy News

We reported just prior to the International Cup launch of the tragic death of Papua New Guinea's Peter Meli.  His last activity as Mosquitoes team manager on August 6 had been to ensure that the players got home safely after their farewell BBQ.  Shortly thereafter he was stabbed, and died later in hospital.  AFL PNG has acted rapidly in establishing a Peter Meli Trust for the benefit of his children.

AFL PNG chairman Scott Reid explains “Most probably he did not make provisions for them given the nature of his death. We want to ensure that there is an ongoing way to help them because Meli was always willing to help others while he was with us.”  Reid said the trust would pay school fees, books, uniforms and other related costs direct to schools and suppliers for the children concerned.

The initial Trust has been set up with contributions from AFL PNG, the AFL, Essendon AFL club (with whom son David Meli is listed as an international scholarship player) and AFL Port Moresby.  The trustees will be Reid, Prof Kenneth Sumbuk (an official of Meli’s club, University Tigers) and Walter Yangomina (AFL PNG development manager).

Reid indicated that on the anniversary of Peter’s death every year, AFL PNG would hold a memorial match and a BBQ with proceeds given to the trust.  Further, Meli will also be commemorated through the awarding of the Peter Meli Medal for the best PNG player in the International Cup every year.

Please contact AFL PNG if you wish to assist.