The Mimika Regency Government officially opened the student-level multi-event and single-event sports championship on Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The event, centered at the Mimika Futsal Hall on SP2-SP5 Main Road, is designed as an arena for fostering potential young athletes as well as part of the celebrations for the 81st Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.
Present at the opening ceremony were the Regent of Mimika, Johannes Rettob, accompanied by Acting Regional Secretary Abraham Kateyau, along with members of the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimda). In addition to officials, Papuan national football legend Boaz Salossa also attended to show direct support for participants ranging from elementary, junior high, to senior high/vocational school levels.
The Department of Youth and Sports (Dispora) of Mimika Regency is featuring seven sports branches in this tournament, namely futsal, volleyball, football, basketball, rowing, karate, and a 10-kilometer run. The event is scheduled to run until August 14, 2026.
In his speech, Regent Johannes Rettob emphasized that development in Mimika should not rely solely on physical infrastructure. He stressed that human resource development through sports is a top priority to shape students' character into being disciplined, honest, and responsible.
"Building Mimika is not just about physical structures or roads, but most importantly, building character. Through sports, we instill the values of sportsmanship and hard work, which will become a strong foundation for an ecosystem of high-achieving athletes in the future," said Johannes.
Echoing these sentiments, Boaz Salossa motivated participants to perform with confidence. The football legend expressed confidence that with consistent nurturing like this, Mimika will be able to produce athletes who not only make the region proud but also honor the nation on national and international stages.
