The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee has helped 11 people attend the GAPS programme ©PNGOC

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) has helped 11 people attend the GAPS programme in 2018 Commonwealth Games host city Gold Coast.

Run by Griffith University and supported by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF), the scheme targets Oceania countries and focuses on athletes and coaches.

Those involved take part in a series of sport specific sessions designed to improve their knowledge of areas such as health and training.

GAPS stands for gather, adjust, prepare, practice and provide.

Three sessions will take place over 18 months in Gold Coast, before the next edition of the Commonwealth Games in Australia. 

PNGOC deputy secretary general Andrew Lepani encouraged those taking part to make the most of their opportunity so that they can improve in their field.

The project is tied to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images
The project is tied to the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games ©Getty Images

The Papua New Guinea delegation featured representatives from boxing, athletics and beach volleyball.

The athletes involved are all hoping to earn a place on the country's Gold Coast 2018 team, as well as the squad for the Pacific Mini-Games in December 2017.

Moha Mea, who won a Pacific Games gold medal on home turf in Port Moresby last year, welcomed the opportunity.

"What we learn from the programme will help us on our journey to qualify for the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games in 2018," the beach volleyball player said.