The Papua New Guinea Kumuls will head into this year’s Rugby League World Cup with a new mentor following confirmation by Michael Marum that he will not re-apply for the role of head coach.
Confirming the end of his eight-year reign, Marum told The National that he was considering contesting a seat in his native East New Britain (ENB) in the upcoming general election.
He said he announced his decision during the PNG Rugby Football League annual general meeting (AGM) in Lae over the weekend.
“There had been a lot questions asked about whether I would re-apply for the role,” he said of the job, which had been first advertised earlier this month.
“But I have made my decision not to re-apply.
“I waited for the AGM because I wanted to announce it in front of all our affiliates and I’m glad I did that.
“To clear the air about talks of me contesting the general election, my people in ENB are getting behind the idea. They want me to contest and I’m considering it.
“At this stage, I can’t confirm whether I’ll do so.
“Whether it’s the ENB regional or an open seat, I can’t say, but there is an option for me there.”
But Marum said the bigger factor behind his decision was his family.
“I’ve sacrificed my family commitments to be a coach, it’s not easy,” he said.
“Family is big part of my decision and I am just happy to finally go home and be close to them.
“I’ve been away over the last eight years due to rugby league commitments. It’s now good to go back and be with my family,” he said.
SOURCE: THE NATIONAL/PACNEWS
