SBA West Eagles have been crowned champions of the 2026 UPNG SRC Easter Rugby Nines after defeating HRM Hawks in the grand final at the University of Papua New Guinea.
The four-day tournament during the long Easter weekend brought together 32 teams from UPNG and sister institutions including PAU University, IBS University, POM Business College, Don Bosco Technical Institute, and POM Technical College.
The event was launched at the UPNG SRC Office on April 15, with matches kicking off the following day.
Run under the leadership of Tournament Coordinator Jaykay Fofo and SRC Sports Coordinator Christoffa Tapungu, the competition progressed through three round robin matches, followed by a Top 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the grand final.
Professional referees from the PNGRFL officiated throughout the tournament, ensuring high standards of play.
The duo said the tournament operated on a K18,000 budget.
Team registrations of K250 each contributed K8,000, while UPNG SRC 2026 provided K10,000 in sponsorship, they told PNG SUN.
The two organizers said the event achieved its goal of promoting unity and building connections between students across institutions.
In the decider, SBA West Eagles overpowered HRM Hawks to claim the title.
UPNG Wasteland Dragons secured third place after UPNG Medics forfeited due to player fatigue from consecutive games.
Individual honors went to standout performers. Remee of SBA West Eagles was named Rookie of the Tournament, while teammate Joshua John earned Best Player.
HRM Hawks dominated the positional awards, with Abraham Kimin named Best Forward and Mesion Ira awarded Best Back.
The annual Easter Nines continues to grow as a key fixture on the university sporting calendar, uniting student athletes from across Port Moresby.