Photo Credit: Cricket PNG
‘It’s been a cool experience and I’ve really enjoyed the time with the boys.’
Working as a support staff member for the Kumul Petroleum PNG Barramundis has been a great experience for Lorenzo. Originally from Cape Town, South Africa he has been working with the Barras since 2019 and truly appreciates the journey so far. With over 15 years of experience in physiotherapy, he says one of the best parts about what he does is being involved with the team and sharing their achievements.
He plays an important role as a member of the support team. And knowing this, he must always be present during training and tournament days.
‘Injury is inevitable, so we try to minimise the risks. It’s my job to assess everyone, their fitness state, injury level and to treat and rehabilitate. I also organise and coordinate checks if required, provide dietary & nutrition advice and make sure the players are hydrated.’
Being a sport physiotherapist, he adds that some of the qualities that anyone in his role must have are a love and keen interest in the sport, mental tenacity due to the strenuous job and a fun-loving character to deal with different personalities, and to make light of different situations as well.
In addition, he says support team staff should be humble and of service putting the players first. Plus it always helps to just be who you are.
Always a supporter of the Barras, Lorenzo urges Papua New Guinea to get behind the team.
‘The boys have worked so hard to be here. It’s a historical and monumental moment for them and for the country. They just have to play with their heart.
‘I just encourage PNG to rally behind the boys. It’s been a challenging time so far and now that they are here it’s an opportunity to back the Barras.’
