**BREAKING: Proposal for the Erection of a Bronze Statue Honouring Justin Olam at the National Football Stadium**
In a landmark move that underscores the profound impact of sports on national identity and pride, a proposal has been tabled for the erection of a bronze statue of Justin Olam at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. This gesture aims to immortalize the legacy of one of the country’s most distinguished sportsmen and to inspire future generations.
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### **A Symbol of National Pride**
The National Football Stadium, with its rich history as the home ground for the Papua New Guinea national rugby league team since 1975, stands as a testament to the nation’s passion for the sport . The proposed statue of Justin Olam would serve as a powerful symbol of national pride, recognizing his exceptional contributions to rugby league both domestically and internationally.
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### **Justin Olam: A Journey from Gon to Greatness**
Born on December 23, 1993, in Gon, Chimbu Province, Justin Olam’s journey to rugby league stardom is nothing short of inspirational. Raised in a rural village where education was prioritized, Olam pursued his studies at the Papua New Guinea University of Technology, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Applied Physics. It was during his time at university that he began playing rugby league for the Unitech Spartans, marking the beginning of his illustrious career .
Olam’s professional journey took him from the Lae Snax Tigers in the Papua New Guinea National Rugby League to the Melbourne Storm in the NRL. In 2020, he achieved the pinnacle of success by winning an NRL premiership with the Storm. The following year, he was awarded the Dally M Centre of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the premier centres in the league .
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### **Advocacy and Ambassadorship**
Beyond his on-field achievements, Olam has been a vocal advocate for the development of rugby league in Papua New Guinea. He has consistently called for consistency and commitment in the coaching roles of the national team, emphasizing the importance of stability for the team’s success .
In 2023, Olam was appointed as the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (PNGTPA) tourism brand ambassador. In this role, he has utilized his platform to promote the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, aiming to boost tourism and inspire pride among Papua New Guineans .
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### **The Significance of the Statue**
The proposed bronze statue would not only commemorate Olam’s individual achievements but also symbolize the collective aspirations of the Papua New Guinean people. It would stand as a reminder of the values of hard work, determination, and resilience—qualities that Olam embodies and that resonate deeply within the nation’s sporting community.
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### **Community Support and Anticipation**
The proposal has garnered widespread support from various sectors of society, including sports enthusiasts, educators, and community leaders. Many view the statue as a fitting tribute to a man who has brought pride to his country and served as a role model for countless young athletes.
Local communities have expressed eagerness to witness the unveiling of the statue, with some suggesting that it could coincide with significant national events to maximize its impact and visibility.
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### **Looking Ahead**
As discussions continue regarding the logistics and funding for the statue, the overarching sentiment remains one of unity and pride. The erection of Justin Olam’s bronze statue at the National Football Stadium would serve as a lasting legacy, honoring his contributions to rugby league and inspiring future generations to strive for excellence both on and off the field.
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**For more information on Justin Olam’s career and achievements, visit his
