Get ready to rally behind a name that’s more than just a label—it’s a symbol of unity, heritage, and the future of Papua New Guinea. The Chiefs are here, and they’re set to make history. But here’s where it gets even more meaningful: this isn’t just about rugby; it’s about a nation’s identity and a legacy that spans thousands of years. Let’s dive in.
Papua New Guinea’s Prime Minister James Marape, affectionately dubbed the “chief Chief,” couldn’t contain his excitement as he championed the name during a pivotal board meeting of the PNG NRL franchise. His rallying cry? “Go the Chiefs!” This wasn’t just a slogan—it was a declaration of pride and purpose. Initially, Marape had envisioned the team as the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels, a nod to the WWII heroes who aided Australian soldiers along the Kokoda Track. But after a public naming competition with over 20,000 submissions, Chiefs emerged as the winner, and it’s easy to see why.
And this is the part most people miss: The name Chiefs isn’t just culturally significant—it’s universally inclusive. In traditional Papua New Guinean society, a Chief can be male or female, reflecting the nation’s matrilineal and patrilineal roots. This duality is especially powerful as the PNG Chiefs plan to field both men’s and women’s teams, with girls’ academy programs already established nationwide. As Marape put it, “Before there was a Prime Minister, the sovereign head within the tribe was the Chief.” It’s a title that bridges the past and the present, honoring ancestors while inspiring future leaders.
The announcement came during the annual Prime Minister’s XIII matches between Australia and Papua New Guinea at a packed Santos National Stadium. As a countdown video played on the big screen, the crowd erupted when Chiefs was revealed. Prime Minister Marape emphasized, “This team is intended to hold this diverse nation together,” a sentiment that resonated deeply in a country of over 1,000 tribes and 850 languages. The name, he explained, is “a fitting emblem as we celebrate 50 years of Independence in 2025,” representing both the ancient traditions and the modern aspirations of Papua New Guinea.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While the name Chiefs was unanimously approved by the PNG NRL Franchise Board, some might argue whether it fully captures the complexity of Papua New Guinea’s cultural tapestry. After all, with so many tribes and languages, can one title truly represent them all? Or is it precisely this simplicity that makes it so powerful? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
The journey to this moment began in 2008, when PNG first campaigned for an NRL team. It finally materialized in December 2022, when Prime Minister Marape and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced PNG’s entry into the competition in 2028. The selection of Chiefs was a collaborative effort between the governments of Papua New Guinea and Australia, along with the Australian Rugby League Commission. NRL CEO Andrew Abdo praised the choice, calling it “a reflection of cultural significance for the people of Papua New Guinea.”
As the PNG Chiefs prepare to take the global stage, they carry with them the spirit of their ancestors—leaders who maintained order, peace, and balance among their tribes. “The strength of unity in diversity,” Marape said, will be their guiding principle. The logo and team colors are still in the works, but one thing is certain: the Chiefs are more than a team—they’re a movement.
So, what do you think? Does the name Chiefs truly embody the essence of Papua New Guinea? Or is there another aspect of their culture you’d like to see represented? Let us know in the comments—this conversation is just getting started!
