Career
Having moved to England following an impressive showing in the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, Gene enjoyed a long career in the British game with spells at Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants, Bradford Bulls, Hull FC and Halifax RLFC. He was a versatile player, with the ability to cover virtually any position on the pitch. He was a regular for the PNG for over 15 years, and captained the side on many occasions before retiring from international rugby league following the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. He is considered a hero in his home country and almost universally regarded as a rugby league legend.
After playing in the 1995 Rugby League World Cup for PNG, Gene was offered a contract to play for Hull Kingston Rovers in the old Second Division. After moving to the UK, Gene played for Hull KR from 1996-2000. He scored 94 Tries in 111 matches during that period, and was a massively popular figure at the club before moving to rivals Hull in 2000. Gene signed for Super League club Hull in 2000. However, he had a frustrating time there, mainly featuring as a substitute. He was granted a release from his contract midway through 2001 and allowed to look for another club. Gene signed with Huddersfield Giants midway through 2001, but was unable to save them from relegation. However, he was instrumental in the club's unbeaten run and promotion back into Super League the following year. He went on to establish himself as one of Huddersfield's most important players, and enjoyed some of his best years at the Giants.
Gene moved to the Bradford Bulls for the 2006 Season. Along with fellow PNG national Marcus Bai, Gene's first match for the club was their win the 2006 World Club Challenge against the Wests Tigers. After only one season with the Bulls, he was allowed to rejoin Hull KR.
Gene returned to his first English club following their promotion to Super League in 2007. He provided experience and a steadying influence as the club established itself in Super League, before being allowed to leave at the end of the 2009 season.
Following his release from Hull KR, Gene signed for Cooperative Championship side Halifax for the 2010 season along with fellow countryman and close friend Makali Aizue.
Gene's representative career lasted over a decade. He made his name for PNG in the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, and also played in the 2000 and 2008 tournaments. In addition, he represented his country in numerous test matches before announcing his intention to retire from international rugby league following the 2008 World Cup. Following PNG's exit from the tournament, he was tearfully carried from the field by his team mates and given a standing ovation by the crowd. He is regarded in Papua New Guinea as a sporting legend.
In 2010, Adrian Lam stepped down as the coach of the PNG national team. Within a few days, it was announced that Gene would be installed as his replacement. The first game under Gene's leadership was the annual fixture between PNG and the Australian PM's XIII. Gene went on to coach the team for the 2010 Four Nations in Australia and New Zealand, failing to register a win.