KMHL Enga Mioks winger, Joel William, who recently announced his transition from rugby league to soccer or football, had his first game with the Hekari United FC Senior Men’s Division in the NCDFA competition on Saturday, November 9th, 2024, at Sir John Guise Multi-purpose oval.
The speedstar travelled with the Mioks to Fiji last month and competed for the Melanesian Cup, where the 2023 Digicel-ExxonMobil Cup Premiers (Mioks) came out victorious with an outstanding margin of 40-16 over the Saru Dragons.
Prior to playing rugby league, William grew up playing soccer. He was a passionate footballer who picked up the rugby ball along the way. He excelled in both codes but decided to pursue rugby league.
William is originally from East Sepik mixed with West New Britain but he was raised in Mount Hagen, Western Highlands Province. His upbringing was interesting, as he blended with different people and experienced various cultures.
Having his first hit-out on the weekend, William mentioned though there was no team chemistry, he had a good time with his teammates, enjoying his first stint with the Hekari’s premier division team.
“I used to play soccer up in Hagen, but this is my first time playing with these boys. Although the game ended in a draw, I feel satisfied and happy. As we play more games together, we will build a combination and produce good results for the club,” William said.
The 24-year-old revealed that he made up his mind to transition from league to soccer, because the Pro-League will be introduced in 2026 and he wants to ply his trade, aiming to have a crack in the Premier Soccer League overseas.
William said he was ready and fit to make the final cut in the Hekari senior men’s team next season. However, he noted that if he doesn’t get the nod, he would switch back to rugby league.
“I know Hekari has so many talented players, so I need to work extra hard to push for a spot. I’m ready to give my best and hopefully make it into the final squad next year. If I don't make the cut, I would go back to league,” William stated.
The Sepik-ENB lad was flourishing in his rugby league career but took a risk to switch codes. He is content with his decision and looks forward to seeing what the future holds for him in both rugby league and soccer.
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