Recent reports have surfaced alleging that Paul Aiton, head coach of the Papua New Guinea (PNG) Hunters rugby league team, has resigned following disputes with management over the team’s strategic direction. These claims suggest that disagreements centered on recruitment policies, player development strategies, and the overall vision for the team’s future.
However, the SP PNG Hunters management has firmly refuted these allegations. In an official statement, Chief Executive Scott Barker labeled the reports as baseless, emphasizing that there is “absolutely no truth in any of the stories.” Barker further clarified that these rumors originated from a website notorious for disseminating false and misleading information about various sports.
Paul Aiton himself addressed the situation, expressing frustration over the spread of misinformation. He stated, “Unfortunately, I’ve been sent this multiple times now. It’s a fake news article from a website that promotes fake news.”
As of January 2025, Aiton remains actively involved with the PNG Hunters, focusing on the team’s preparations for the upcoming Queensland Rugby League (QRL) season. He has outlined plans for internal trials and potential matches against Digicel ExxonMobil Cup teams to enhance the team’s readiness. Despite challenges, including injuries to 14 players, Aiton remains optimistic, viewing this as an opportunity for younger players to step up and contribute.
In light of these developments, it’s evident that the initial reports of Paul Aiton’s resignation were unfounded. Both Aiton and the SP PNG Hunters management have reaffirmed their commitment to the team’s success and are actively working towards a promising 2025 season.
