THE PNG Chiefs have broken their silence on how they secured Wests Tigers playmaker Jarome Luai, in what general manager Michael Chammas described as one of the biggest shocks in rugby league.
Chammas revealed that the club had been monitoring Luai’s contract situation from the outset.
“We knew he was a free agent,” Chammas said. “And I’ve known Jerome since he was a teenager.
“Forget football for a second … he ticks every single box. He’s a family man, he carries himself well, and he has strong Pacific values.”
Luai’s recent trip to Port Moresby sealed the connection.
According to Chammas, the star playmaker felt instantly at home, even likening the atmosphere to his Samoan roots.
“He was walking through the streets saying it reminded him of Samoa. He felt comfortable. That connection was real.”
While Luai’s on-field talent is unquestioned, the Chiefs were equally focused on his off-field impact.
“We already knew what he could do on the field. But off the field, he was everything we wanted.
“He’s coming with his wife and three young kids. His parents are excited too. This is not just a player signing, it’s a family journey.”
Chammas believes Luai’s decision sends a powerful message to other players considering a move to Papua New Guinea.
“If it’s good enough for Jerome, it’s good enough for anyone.”
The signing has stunned the rugby league community, and even the Chiefs themselves.
“It’s been a whirlwind,” Chammas admitted. “If you told us three months ago that Luai would be our first signing, we wouldn’t have believed it. It means everything to the people. You can see it everywhere. That’s what made this special.”
Despite outside skepticism, the PNG Chiefs are embracing the moment and the history they are creating.
