Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) rugby league hero Justin Olam has praised the recognition of players’ achievements and highlighted the importance of grassroots pathways during the 2025 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup (DEC) Awards night. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG as a special guest in the 2025 DEC awards, Justin Olam mentioned this, sharing his positive thoughts on rising player talent recognition. Olam, who launched his career through the DEC competition grind, said the awards reflect the hard work and growth of local players. “I came through the Cup in which it is good to see that they are giving awards to the players and recognizing their talent and what they have achieved in the game.” “Congratulations to those who won awards, and also to the teams for making it a great final.” “To all the other players nominated, that is also a good sign, they are clearly doing something right, and they can keep building on that to improve.” In addition, he stressed that the increasing presence of young talent in the awards is proof of PNG Rugby League’s future strength. “I think the awards are good, they are covering everything at the moment. It is great to see that most of the players receiving awards tonight are very young.” “It shows that there are youths coming through in PNG Rugby League, and the development programs run by PNG National Rugby League (PNGNRL) and PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) in the communities are paying off.” “Someone like Felix, who is still in Year 12, getting an award and playing in the Cup; that is a really good sign.” Meanwhile, looking to the broader game and player awards, Olam said rugby league in PNG is on an upward trajectory, thanks to grassroots and community development. “It is heading in the right direction; it’s only going to go up from here.” “PNG Rugby League are going back to grassroots, reaching rural areas, educating players and encouraging kids to stay in school.” “With junior programs and the expansion of the NRL team here, the game will go to the next level.” “The coaching and training at grassroots will strengthen the Cup and take rugby league higher.”