The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) announced today the re-appointment of Tahnee Norris as the head coach for the PNG national women’s team, the Santos Orchids. PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina expressed his enthusiasm for Norris’ return, confirming that she will continue in the role for an extended two-year term leading into the world cup 2026. He stated that Tahnee’s appointment is not only for the week of the campaign for the Pacific Championships or the 2026 Rugby League World Cup but the commitment to growth. “The Board had a meeting and vetted and she has the full support to lead our Orchids into the next world cup 2026, where a couple of matches will be hosted in PNG and in other parts of the world as well.” “Tahnee brings her skillset of what’s she’s got and what she’s done and her experience across the game.” “It is not about one coach but building the pathways in the department that will allow our own coaches to come into the system.” He further stated that, for this year, with Tahnee’s input and working with their Performance & Pathway Department, the Santos PNG Orchids are confirmed to play two-trial matches to get more exposer and do well by the end of the year. “So, we’ve got the first game against the Australian Défense Force on the 15th of June here in Port Moresby, next weekend that will be a curtain-racer to the Hunters game as an international hit-outs.” “And there’s another match in Brisbane as a lead-up match, playing the Australian NRLW team trail-match as a lead-up to the Pacific Championships in October-November.” Norris, who is currently in Port Moresby attending the Santos Cup Football Conference, expressed her enthusiasm about continuing her role with the national side. She said she is energized by the opportunity to lead the team forward, building on the foundation that has already been laid. Santos PNG Orchids Chairlady Celestine Ove congratulated Tahnee Norris on her extended appointment. She stated that the re-appointment not only ensures continuity in the Orchids’ development but also provides an opportunity for Norris to share her extensive experience with the national coaching staff, team trainers, and PNGRFL personnel. Ove added that the team looks forward to continued progress under Norris' leadership as the Santos Orchids prepare for their campaign towards the next Rugby League World Cup. As part of their preparations, the Santos PNG Orchids will play two trial matches in June: • 15 June: Against the Australian Defence Force in Port Moresby • 22 June: Against the Brisbane Broncos NRLW team in Brisbane PNGRFL remains confident that, with the right support systems in place and strong leadership, the Santos PNG Orchids will continue to rise, representing Papua New Guinea with pride on the international stage. Both the Santos PNG Orchids and the PNG LNG Kumuls are scheduled to compete in the 2025 Pacific Bowl Championships later this year. Tahnee Norris will lead the Orchids as they prepare for future test matches and major tournaments, including qualifiers for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. Her leadership is expected to play a vital role in continuing the progress and professionalism of the team, while further contributing to the overall growth of women’s rugby league in PNG.