JANUARY
SOL2023 Pacific Games will go down the history of our country as the first-ever premier sporting regional competition to be hosted in Honiara, Solomon Islands.
The event was first hosted in Suva, Fiji in 1963, about sixty years ago.
Solomon Islands only managed to host the mini-games, but not like the scale that was hosted over two weeks in Honiara from 19th November to 2nd December 2023.
More than 5000 athletes converged into Honiara for the exciting sporting showdown.
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GOVERNOR General (GG) His Excellency Sir David Vunagi has expressed sincere thanks to our bilateral partners for stepping in to support build the sports facilities for the Sol2023.
Their help has resulted in the country’s successful hosting of the historic Sol2023 Pacific Games in Honiara from 19th November to 2nd December 2023.
In his New Year’s message Sir Vunagi said, “when Solomon Islands was granted the hosting rights for the 17th Pacific Games in 2016, we were confronted with the questions of how and where to begin.
“We did not have the funds and resources to construct the required sports stadiums and other infrastructures.”
But it was in the midst of such uncertainties that construction of infrastructures and stadiums were undertaken, he added.
Because of that, he sincerely expressed his profound acknowledgement for the timely support.
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SOLOMON Islands National team captain Joses Nawo and midfielder Atkin Kaua have been signed by Galaxy FC of Vanuatu to join their squad for this new season.
This has been confirmed by Galaxy FC club.
“We are happy to announce the addition of Joses Nawo and Atkin Kaua to our club this season,” said Galaxy FC.
They will arrive in Vanuatu this month to join the current squad ahead of their important season for this year.
Both players have been instrumental for Solomon Islands side during the Sol2023 Pacific Games but fall short of grabbing the medals.
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WITH the Sol2023 Pacific Games now in the country’s history books, one of the major sporting events that is coming up next year is the Pacific Mini Games in Palau.
In preparation for that Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) is wasting no time, as it is now gearing up its services to support sport federations in their preparations for this Mini Games.
The sports that SINIS will be assisting in their preparations are; ‘Athletics, Archery, Swimming, Basketball 3×3, Beach and Indoor Volleyball, Judo, Canoe, Table Tennis, Triathlon, Baseball, Softball, Wrestling, Tennis and Weightlifting’.
SINIS Executive Director Aaron Alsop said to ensure preparations get underway with athletes and coaches of the sports confirmed for the Palau 2025 Pacific Mini Games, the High-Performance Centre will reach out to key partners to align strategies to the goals for the performances of the teams.
“Having built a strong foundation in our High-Performance system over the past few years, we see a great opportunity to leverage from all the momentum from the 2023 Pacific Games,” said Alsop.
SINIS said it would be reaching out to key partners to support its plans.
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Zurich gave the green light to Solomon Islands’ top FIFA badge referee Ben Aukwai to attend the Preseason of Elite Referees seminar in Argentina this month.
Aukwai and New Zealand referee Campbell-Kirk Alexander Waugh are the 2 candidates considered by the OFC Referees Department among the 6 FIFA Confederation referees – and the 37-year-old is on the verge of creating history, the road to officiating at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
He will be the second FIFA badge referee from the Solomon Islands to be given the opportunity for a chance to officiate on the big stage should he be successful.
“I’m so honored and humbled to be selected and given this lifetime opportunity,” Aukwai expressed.
“It will be a huge achievement for me in my refereeing career because I will learn new things from all the top FIFA instructors and referees around the world, and I’m proud to represent SIFF and the country.
Aukwai left the country for Sydney, Australia, before traveling onward to South America on January 13.
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THE country has lost one of its upcoming top sprinters following a short illness.
Solomon Islands Athletics (SIA), in a statement, said it is mourning the loss of a humble, dedicated and committed athletes Late Vale George Tarai who passed on Tuesday this week due to illness.
In a statement Athletic Solomons said the federation and all the Athletics athletes will indeed miss their friend Late Tarai.
“On behalf of Solomon Islands Athletics, “we will really miss George. He was really a humble and hard-working athlete and we will miss him on the track.”
Athletics Solomons expressed sincere condolences to the immediate families, relatives, athletes and friends.
“Our deepest condolences to his immediate families, athletes and friends, rest in peace with our Almighty Lord,” the statement read.
It is understood Late Tarai is a sprinter. At the recent Pacific Games, he came 4th in the 400m hurdles final with a time of 56.37 seconds.
In that race, he set a new Solomon Islands national record, breaking the previous record that stood for 52 years by Alfred Selwyn, who ran 57 seconds at the 1971 South Pacific Games in Pirae, French Polynesia.
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SHAMA Maemae becomes the first female Solomon Islander to earn a FIFA badge as a center referee.
This was confirmed by SIFF after FIFA confirmed accreditation following the release of the FIFA International List of Match Officials for 2024 sent to the federation referee department earlier this month.
The 29-year-old joins seven (7) other Solomon Islands referees, assistant referees, futsal referees, and beach soccer referees with FIFA badges assigned for the year.
Shama Maemae told SIFF media that his achievement is through perseverance and commitment that help her reach that far.
“It’s through perseverance and commitment to reach this far,” Maemae said.
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SOLOMON Islands Weightlifting Federation will be participating in the Oceania Weightlifting Championships for Senior, Junior and Youth weightlifters in Auckland, New Zealand in February.
The federation will be sending seven weightlifters.
Weightlifting Coach Wendy Hale said the seven weightlifting have been selected and are currently undergoing training at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
Ms Hale said the seven Solomon Islands weightlifters for the Auckland February 2024 championships comprise two youth, three junior and two senior weightlifters.
She said the weightlifting federation has been working to secure funding for the seven weightlifters.
Ms Hale said if though could not secure enough funding to send seven weightlifters, then they will consider trimming down on the number.
The ‘Oceania Weightlifting Championships will be held from 21 to 25 February.
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THE Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) has thanked the national government for the support it has provided to support athletes and coaches prepare for future competitions.
Addressing the local media in a press conference, SINIS Executive Director Aaron Alsop said he was grateful for the government’s establishment of SINIS and for providing it support to assist athletes and coaches train for future competitions.
Mr Alsop extended his appreciation to the National Hosting Authority (NHA) Chairman Dr Jimmie Rodgers and NHA for without their support, it would have been challenging for the High-Performance Center’s operations for the last couple of years.
He said overall, SINIS acknowledges the incredible results of the athletes and coaches from the XVII Pacific Games 2023.
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THE Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has announced the National Women’s Football team for the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Women’s Olympic Qualifiers in Samoa in February.
SIFF made the announcement after the coaching staff finalised the squad.
The squad comprises three goalkeepers, eight defenders, nine midfielders and three forwards.
Goalkeepers are Margaret Kofela, Sylvester Maenu’u and Joan Hanigaro.
The Defenders are Edith Nari, Lisa Solo, Kalinsha Fiua, Jacklyn Ikama, Rashida Mekawir, Sheroly Saeni, Claudia Votu and Iva Sade.
Forwards are Mesalyn Saepio, Alisha Donga, Sandy Tahira, Veronica Tolivaka, Bridget Alele, Mary Maefiti, Almah Gogoni, Gertrude Oritaimae, Madelyn Arukau, Ileen Pegi and Lorina Solosaea.
According to the OFC women’s Olympic qualifiers, Solomon Islands are placed in group A alongside Papua New Guinea, Fiji and American Samoa.
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ONE of the country’s talented forwards, has been tipped to return to his former Ba team in Fiji for the 2024 season.
Unconfirmed reports reaching Star Sports said, “Darold Kakasi is moving back to Ba from Solomon Islands for 2024 Season.”
The youngster played an important role as striker and also played as left and right winger.
Kakasi rejoined the Men in Black last year for the completion of the 2023 season.
After leaving Laugu United in the Telekom S-League, Kakasi made the decision to rejoin Ba last year where he had previously achieved great success.
The player’s experience and skill will undoubtedly be an asset as Ba strives to reach new heights in the league.
Kakasi joined Ba in early 2022 before returning to Solomon Islands and featured for Waneagu United, showcasing his abilities and contributing to his new team’s performance.
After his stint with Waneagu United, Kakasi joined Laugu United, where he continued to display his scoring prowess and make significant contributions on the field.
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THE country’s National Men’s Football Training Squad has commenced intensive training as of this week ahead of the OFC Nations Cup 2024 mid this year.
The competition will be staged in Port Vila, Vanuatu, from 15 to 30 June.
To gear up for this important competition, the boys are back at the SIFF Academy field in East Honiara to resume their daily intensive training under the watchful eyes of Coach Felipe Vega-Arango.
A statement from the Solomon Islands National Team said, “preparation is the key. First week back on the training ground for this year ahead of a busy schedule on the calendar.”
Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) said this year is going to be a busy year for football and the national team is now busy with training.
“Hectic year of competitions as the national team sets down in training.”
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ANOTHER Solomon Islander is set to join another Fiji-based club for the 2024 season.
According to reports from Fiji, Nasinu had signed up Solomon Islands International Don Keana for the 2024 season of the Fiji Football League.
“Nasinu FC is returning to the Digicel Fiji Premier League with the addition of former Solomon Islands rep Don Keana, who played for Waneagu FC as a central midfielder in their domestic league,” the report said.
Keana from Western Province has national team experience and is currently in the national team set-up.
His signing with Nasinu is expected to boost the team’s performance during the upcoming league and other competitions.
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FEBRUARY
SOLOMON Islands National women’s football team are in Samoa for the Women’s Olympic football tournament – Oceania qualifiers.
The tournament will kick off on Wednesday 7 February.
Solomon Islands are placed in group A alongside Papua New Guinea, American Samoa and Fiji.
According to match schedules from OFC, the Batram Suri-coached side will take on the 17th Pacific Games champions Papua New Guinea at 1pm local time at the FFS Football Stadium.
Their second match will be on Sunday 11 February against American Samoa also at 1pm local time at the FFS stadium.
Their third match will be on Wednesday 14 February against the Pacific Games silver medallists Fiji at 9am also at the FFS stadium.
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NEW Zealand Club, Hamilton Wanderers FC has recently announced the signing of Solomon Islands International Michael Boso.
Hamilton Wanderers FC announced the signing via its official social media page recently and said they look forward for Boso’s contribution to the club in the 2024 season.
“Welcome to Porritt Stadium, Michael Boso. We are looking forward for your contributions with the club this year.
“Hamilton Wanderers FC confirms the 32-year-old’s inclusion and looks forward to seeing you in blue.
“The experienced centre back has had spells at Marist FC (OFC Championship), Suva FC, Miramar, Laugu FC amongst others and now the Hamilton Wanderers FC fans Can’t wait to see you in Blue,” the statement said.
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THE Nadroga Football Club (FC) of Fiji has welcomed Solomon Islands trio William Komasi, Steward Toata and Barie Limoki upon their arrival in Fiji.
The trio touched down in Fiji on Tuesday 6 February to join the Fiji Digicel Premier League side Nadroga FC this season.
Their contracting by Nadroga FC is seen as another great opportunity for Solomon Islands young footballers to expose their footballing talents abroad.
For William Komasi and Barrie Limoki, this is not their first time to play in the Digicel Premier League as they played for Nadi FC in the last season.
But for Steward Toata, it his first time to play in the Digicel Premier League. Young Toata is the latest international transfer approved by the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) transfer office.
Toata is a Marist FC midfielder and former Solomon Islands U17 national player.
A statement from Nadroga FC on Tuesday said the club welcomed the trio upon their arrival in Fiji and also welcomed them to the club.
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THE Head Coach of Solomon Islands National women’s football team, Batram Suri, remains optimistic about securing a win against American Samoa on Sunday 11 February at the FFS Stadium in Apia, Samoa.
Following their one-all draw against Papua New Guinea on Wednesday, Coach Suri expressed confidence in his team’s abilities when interviewed by OFC Media.
Despite feeling that they should have won the match by 2-nil against the Pacific Games gold medallist PNG, Suri acknowledged that the team deviated from their game plan, allowing PNG to equalize in the second half.
“Despite the result against PNG, I am indeed pleased with the girls’ performance against the recent Pacific Games gold medallists,” Suri said.
Looking ahead to the upcoming match against American Samoa, Coach Suri emphasized the need to forget about the first game and focus on preparation.
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SOLOMON Islands and the Tonga are in the box seat to secure the two remaining semi-final places at the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament – Oceania Qualifier in Apia, heading into the final Group matches.
In Group A, already qualifying Fiji face the Solomon Islands, while Papua New Guinea (PNG) meet American Samoa.
Batram Suri’s Solomon Islands side will progress to the final four as runner-up to Fiji with a draw and will top the Group with victory.
“It’s a big game. I approach the match not to lose, so more defensively than to attack and I hope the strategy will work.” Suri said. “We know what we have to do to make the semi-finals,” he added.
The final Group matches are played simultaneously, with Papua New Guinea needing to beat American Samoa by at least eight goals, while hoping Fiji account for Solomon Islands.
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SOLOMON Islands National Women’s Football Team has booked its semi final spot in the OFC women’s qualifier after overcoming Fiji for a vital win 3-1 in Group A at FFS stadium in Samoa.
The win against Fiji has give them 3 important point to go on top of group A with 7 points after 2 wins and 1 draw in 3 matches played.
The final group is a must win for the Batram Suri-coached side as they aimed for a semi-final spot. Thus, the Batram Suri-led side has accomplished this objective after beating Fiji to advance to semi-finals.
Solomon Islands hold a crucial lead over Fiji in their final Group A match as Captain Ileen Pegi doubled the lead at half-time to make it 2-0 halftime score.
The matches were indeed a tough one for the Suri-coached side but with intense performance from the girls, they found the right combination in the first half and broke the deadlock with a strike in the 16th minute when Pegi fired into the top corner from just inside the box and put Solomon Islands on the lead against Fiji with a 1-0 score.
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THE Solomon Islands young futsal development squad has had a good taste of world-class futsal with the brilliant and intense performance from the vising Futsalroos in its three friendly matches with the Australian National Futsal Team.
The Kurukuru side has gone head-to-head with the mighty Futsalroos in the 2024 Edition of the PacificAus Sports International Futsal series.
The 2024 International Futsal series tournament matches were played on Wednessay 21 February, Friday 23 February and Sunday 25 February at the Friendship Hall and ended in all three defeats to the development Kurukuru side by the mighty Futsalroos.
The first match of the 2024 International Futsal Series tournament saw the visitors Futsalroos narrowly beat Kurukuru by 2-1.
The second match of the futsal series saw Futsalroos prove their experience to record their second win in the PacificAus Sports Futsal Series 2024 by beating Kurukuru in a 6-2 fulltime score.
The third and final match of the 2024 International Futsal Series tournament on Sunday saw the mighty Futsalroos defeat the development Kurukuru side in a commanding victory 8-2 for a clean sweep in the futsal series and claimed overall winners of the PacificAus Sports Futsal Series title for the second time.
Kurukuru Interim Head Coach Dickson Kadau told local media that he was satisfied with the team’s performance, especially against the formidable Futsalroos.
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SOLOMON Islands Team Weighlifting has bagged five medals at the recent Oceania Weightlifting Championships for Senior, Junior and Youth Competition in New Zealand.
The five medals comprise two gold, two silver and one bronze.
The first gold was scooped by iron lady Jenly Wini in the 55kg Category. She lifted 78kg in Snatch and 94kg in Clean and Jerk, which gave her a total of 172kg.
The second gold was snatched by Freeman Hale who competed in the men’s Youth and Junior 61kg Category.
Rising Junior female Weightlifter Lorah Maelosia won the first silver in the Junior Oceania 55kg Category, lifting 72kg in Snatch and 85kg in Clean and Jerk.
The second silver was won by Freeman Hale in the Junior Category, whilst the country’s Youth Weightlifter Janita Ereanimae won bronze in the Youth 45kg class. This was the first international exposure for Ereanimae.
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MARCH
THE former Central Coast Football Club (FC) and Haura Futsal team player, Paul Awa has been selected to join the Palmerston North Marist Football Club (PNM-FC) Futsal Team for this year’s New Zealand National Futsal League – Ford Futsal Super League 2024.
The youngster is currently based in New Zealand and was confirmed to be selected by the PNM-FC Head Coach Adam Cowman and Assistant Nick Carrick for the club’s Futsal Team for this year.
Awa has made several appearances for the club at both in outdoor and indoor football competitions since 2023.
PNM-FC Futsal Team confirmed recently that Awa was named for the club’s final 20-men futsal squad for the New Zealand National Futsal League – Ford Futsal Super League 2024 season.
PNM-FC also confirmed that the team won its first home match 4-1 and was defeated in the away fixture by 1-0.
The team is a combination of experienced former Futsal White players, including Adam Cowan, Micky Malivuk, and Lucas Silva, and young talents such as Daren Juru, Zachery Farmer and Paul Awa.
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THE Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS) celebrated its second anniversary.
National Federation Presidents, coaches, athletes and the SINIS staff commemorated the significant milestone – two years of excellence, growth, and commitment in the country’s sports development.
SINIS, since its establishment, served as the main training venue for both coaches and athletes and tremendous growth and success has been achieved.
SINIS officially opened its doors upon its official launching ceremony on 11 March 2022. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was the Guest of Honour at an event attended other government officials and stakeholders.
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SOLOMON Islands 100m athletics female sprinter Jovita Arunia Ambrose has set a 60m Short Track National Record of 8.19 seconds at the ‘World Indoor Athletics Championship in Glasgow, Scotland and thanked all her supporters for achieving this new record.
Ms Ambrose told the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) MEDIA that despite of the ‘jet lag’ experienced in travelling across to Europe, she did not allow the situation to affect her performance which saw her set a new Athletics track record for Solomon Islands.
“From the recent Championship, I have gained experience on what I need to improve in over which I will return home and work on it,” she said.
For her recent preparations before travelling over to Europe for the ‘World Indoor Athletics Championship’, Ms Ambrose thanked SINIS for providing the facility for her to train before her departure.
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THE mastermind behind the Solomon Islands National Institute and Sports (SINIS) infrastructure project and Executive Director for the past three years has been farewelled.
Aaron Alsop the architect behind SINIS and its programs will finally leave the country after five long years of service to Solomon Islands, supporting the development of athletes for the 17th Pacific Games in Honiara.
Mr Alsop leaves behind a lasting legacy which will be continued far into the future by the next appointed officials to take charge of SINIS.
SINIS plays a pivotal role in the development of athletes because it is the only home of sports in the country.
It is equipped with the best and advanced facilities and this is all attributed to the wisdom of Mr Alsop.
SINIS staff hosted a farewell party for Mr Alsop and his family at the High-Performance Centre.
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APRIL
PAPUA New Guinea’s Junior Tennis Team had the opportunity of an onsite visit to Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS).
The PNG Junior Tennis Team is currently transiting in Honiara after arriving on Sunday from the recent West Pacific Regional Championship (WPRC) at Lautoka, Fiji, from April 1 to 6.
Taking the opportunity to maintain their fitness level, the visiting tennis team underwent a fitness fun activity, including an ice-bath, with Solomon Islands Emerging Talent Squad (ETS) at the High-Performance Centre.
The PNG’s Junior Tennis Team included 13 athletes and two coaches Eddie Mera and Omega Noah who expressed their gratefulness for the visit.
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SOLOMON Warriors Japanese import player Kohei Matusomoto has made his first debut as SW beat Real Kakamora 3-2 at Lawson Tama Stadium.
The SW Media commended him for his contribution of the first victory in the Telekom Super League (TSL) 2024 season.
SW Media, in a statement, said he has been all around the field, so SW fans do not really know what position he was playing but he is the defender for the team.
Matusomoto was welcomed by Club owners Diane Dettke and Bodo Dettke and Solomon Warriors Team when he arrived at Honiara International Airport earlier this year.
After his arrival, he joined SW’s training sessions and their friendly matches.
His inclusion is a boost for SW for this 2024 TSL season as well as the Champions League this year in Tahiti.
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APRIL
KOLOALE FC Captain Ileen Moffat Pegi jetted out of the country to her new club AS Academy Feminine of New Caledonia.
At the Honiara International Airport, she was farewelled by the Koloale FC Team Manager John Kirry, Assistant Team Manager Liela Fox and Head Coach Crystal Annie Bakolo, Koloale Women’s team players, her friends and family members.
This is a historical transfer Ileen and her former Club Koloale FC have made so far in Solomon Islands Women’s Football.
Head Coach Bakolo told Star Sports in an interview that Pegi’s departure from Koloale FC leaves a huge gap for the club but wished her good luck in her new football endeavour with her new club.
“Ileen’s departure will leave a gap because she is our best player and our team captain.
“However, we will fill the gap soon because we have already scouted for her replacement in Noro, Western Province,” she said.
Head Coach Bakolo said this was the first time a Koloale player has been signed up by an overseas club and thus, she was excited saying it will pave the way for other women footballers in Solomon Islands.
She added that Pegi will be joining her new club AS Feminine for a one-year contract.
Pegi told Star Sports that when she arrives in New Caledonia, she will sign the contract with her new club.
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THE Solomon Islands National Men’s U16 Squad leaves for Tonga for the OFC Men’s U16 Championship mini qualifier.
Solomon Islands will play three matches in the mini qualifier and will take on Papua New Guinea in their opening match, Tonga in their second match and American Samoa in their third match.
The championship will commence on 13 April. It is a mini qualifying tournament for the OFC U16 Men’s Championship in August 2024 in Tahiti.
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MAY
The Caretaker Prime Minister and Minister for the 2023 Pacific Games Manasseh Damukana Sogavare and National Hosting Authority Chair Jimmie Rodgers handed over the sporting facilities used for the Pacific Games to the National Sports Council (NSC).
The official handing over ceremony held at the National Stadium in East Honiara was the first phase of the handing over of sporting facilities from the NHA to the NSC.
The first phase handing over covers the National Stadium, the Tennis Centre, Friendship Hall, Aquatic Centre, Eastern End Running Track, Hockey Pitch, DC Park and the Iumi Water Sports Park.
The second phase is scheduled to be held on a later date and it will cover four sporting facilities – Eastern End Sports Precinct Running Track, Eastern End Sports Precinct Multipurpose Hall, SINIS and the Sports Legacy House and the Administration Centre at the Sports City.
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SOLOMON Islands 100-meter female sprinter Jovita Ambrose will lead Team Solo to the Oceania Athletic Championships (OAC) this year in Suva, Fiji.
The championship is scheduled to be held from June 1 to 8.
Ms Ambrose previously represented Solomon Islands in two world athletics championships, including the Indoor Championship in Glasgow, Scotland, in March when she set a new national record for 100-meters sprint.
She set a 60m Short Track National Record of ‘8.19 seconds’ when she competed in that World Indoor Athletics event in Glasgow.
Oceania Athletics said Ms Ambrose will be the ‘headline’ for Team Solo in the OAC next month.
It said Team Solo is hoping to keep the momentum from the recent Pacific Games, which they performed strongly and set multiple national records, during their participation in the championship in Fiji next month.
The championship will be staged at the Fiji National Stadium and HFC Stadium.
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UPON the successful hosting of the 2024 Inter-Bank Games (IBG) on Whit Monday, the Central Bank of Solomon Islands (CBSI) were officially crowned as champions of 2024 IBG.
CBSI became the champions of the 2024 IBG after a perfect run in all sports played during the competition.
A total of nine different sports were played during the one-day competition staged at various venues, including the Friendship Hall which hosted three sports.
With the nine sports played, CBSI became the champions of the three sports and third in netball. They also came first in football, first in touch rugby and first in basketball.
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THE Solomon Islands Basketball Federation (SIBF) has appointed Bastiste Kelesi as its new Executive Officer.
SIBF made the announcement following an official appointment signing ceremony at the National Olympic Committee of the Solomon Island (NOCSI).
“We are proud to announce the appointment of Mr Baptiste Kelesi as its new Executive Officer. The official signing ceremony took place last week at the National Olympic Committee of the Solomon Island (NOCSI,” SIBF said in a statement.
SIBF said for the first time, SIBF now has a fulltime Executive Officer dedicated to overseeing its administrative duties and developing basketball programs and this is a milestone made possible with support from the Australian Government through TeamUp.
SIBF Vice President Douglas Marau expressed his gratitude to Kelesi for embracing the challenge of advancing basketball in Solomon Islands.
“We warmly welcome Kelesi to SIBF. This is a crucial step for basketball development, particularly under TeamUp – Basketball for Good, which will enhance our program. Kelesi’s sports development experience, including his tenure at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sports (SINIS), will be invaluable for our Federation,” Marau said.
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CENTRAL Coast FC Head Coach Jacob Moli has been appointed to take up the interim role as the National Team Head Coach for the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024 in Vanuatu.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) announced Moli’s appointment following the unavailability of Coach Eddie Marahare for the task.
Moli is no stranger to this role as he led the national side from 2011 to 2014 and his reappointment for the top job came following the unavailability of Marahare who was initially appointed.
For Moli, the job comes with great responsibility as he will be the one calling the shots again.
Moli told SIFF media that, “it is always an honour for him to coach the national team.”
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THE Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) and friends of football have paid tribute to former National Team Head Coach and SIFF High-Performance Head, Felipe Vega-Arango.
SIFF hosted a farewell dinner to thank the Spaniard after completing his renewed contract as Head Coach and has decided against renewing it. Vega-Arango was first contracted as Technical Director March 2017 and at the end of the contract in 2019, he was appointed as Head Coach. His contract as Head Coach was renewed in 202.
Vega-Arango was instrumental in elevating the National Team’s FIFA World Ranking from 188 to 132 within seven years – a consistent record in Oceania.
He led the senior team to redemption in the 2023 Melanesian Cup and despite the team securing second place at the Pacific Games, his contributions to the High-Performance delivery pathway with the federation have been crucial.
SIFF President Donald Marahare thanked Felipe, saying he has done a tremendous job by contributing to the development of the game.
“Your passion, work and commitment will always be appreciated by football and we want to wish you well in your future endeavors. Remember, Solomon Islands is always your home,” he added.
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JUNE
SOLOMON Islands National Senior Men’s Team are due to leave the country for the Oceania Football Federation (OFC) Nations’ Cup 2024 in Port Vila, Vanuatu, next Monday 10 June.
This was announced at a press conference by the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Leonard Paia at a press conference.
“We are now at the end of May. June starts two days from now and it is only on the 15th [of June] that OFC Nations Cup begins and the team will travel on June 10.”
Mr Paia said though the OFC Nations’ Cup is not part of the World Cup Qualifiers, SIFF sees it at very important that the team attend the competition and that they are prepared the best way possible despite SIFF still being in the process of recruiting a new Head Coach to replace Felipe Vega-Arango from Spain who decided not to have his contract further extended.
On that note, Mr Paia thanked Jacob Moli for accepting to take on the Head Coach position on an interim basis and lead the National Senior Men’s Team for the OFC Nations Cup in Vanuatu.
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SOLOMON Islands International Raphael Le’ai was officially confirmed to have signed a new contract with the Australian National Premier League (NPL) team Adelaide FC.
The 20-year-old signed the deal on June, placing him as the second Solomon Islander after Micah Le’alafa in 2023 to undergo the Player Performance Project (PPP) which made it possible following the end of his contract with FK Velež Mostar on May 31.
This was confirmed by SIFF media last Saturday following the confirmation of Le’ai’s signing by PPP Coach, Joshua James.
“Rapha signed a contract with Adelaide City on the 1st of June until the remainder of the season which ends in September 2024,” James confirmed.
“He is now focused on training, playing as many matches as possible, and extra sessions with PPP knowing that good performances in the NPL will create more future pathways.”
The PPP program is known for supporting and bringing Pacific Islanders to Australia – helping them to progress through the local NPL and the A-League.
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THE Solomon Islands Senior Men’s National Team departed yesterday 10 June for the OFC Nations Cup 2024.
A total of 20 players and 6 officials left the country for Vanuatu ahead of the OFC Nations Cup which will kick off on June 15 in Vanuatu and Fiji.
Amongst the 20 players is Solomon Islands Wonder kid Raphael Le’ai who just returned from Australia on Sunday. Le’ai had signed a contract with Adelaide City FC.
Leon Kofana who plays for Fiji’s Rewa FC and Atkin Kaua and Joses Nawo of Galaxy FC of Vanuatu will also join the squad upon their arrival in Vanuatu.
The 6 officials travelling with the squad are the Interim Head Coach Jacob Moli, Assistant Coach Stanley Waita, Goalkeeper Coach Erick Peter, Team Manager Dixion Anga, Kit Manager Augustine Hou and physiotherapist Charles Gauba.
The National Senior Men’s Team left for the OFC Nations Cup in Vanuatu after concluding a series of friendly matches last weekend as part of a critical assessment of their readiness.
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The Solomon Islands boys have gone down to the Vanuatu side in a close margin defeat of 1 goal to nil in their opening match at the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024.
The Jacob Moli led squad have proven themselves to be hard contenders against the Vanuatu side by giving them a hard-fought close victory a winning goal that was scored late by Kenny Tangis in the 71st minute of the game.
For Vanuatu, their victory was their first win over their rival Solomon Islands since 2017.
For both teams’ coaches, the match was dubbed a ‘Grand Final’ after the withdrawal of New Caledonia. With New Zealand as the third team in Group A, defeat in the opening match could ruin their respective semi-final dreams.
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SOLOMON Islands showed their class to confirm OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2024 semi-final spot after 3-0 victory against Fiji in Apia.
There was plenty riding on this match, with Fiji and the Solomon Islands knowing a victory would secure their spot in the semi-finals of the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship.
It didn’t take long for the first shot to be registered, a great through ball put James Laena one-on-one with Fiji’s Illisoni Koro. But the ball bobbled as he went to shoot, sending the ball sailing over the crossbar.
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JULY
A HIGHLEVEL football delegation visited Gizo, Western Province, to inspect the John F. Kennedy (JFK) stadium sports ground ahead of its upgrade under FIFA’s Forward Programme.
The delegation comprising FIFA representatives David Firisua and Angelina Lee-Hussien, the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) President Donald Marahare and a Technical Manager from the Provincial Football Association (PFA) paid the visit.
Speaking to Star Sports in an interview, President Marehare explained that the primary purpose of the brief visit to Gizo was related to the Western Football Association (WFA) and the JFK Stadium.
FIFA has recently funded the construction of the John F. Kennedy Stadium Refitting and Expansion Project 2024 under the FIFA Forward Programme.
“This is a very significant project to be implemented by FIFA, while other PFA projects will commence later. This will benefit football development in the Western Province,” Mr Marehare said.
He outlined the scope of work, which involves designing and constructing refurbishments and extensions.
“We are working closely with the WFA although the property is under FIFA. WFA is the custodian over the property and facilities.”
Mr Marehare added, “the expectation is that WFA will work closely with the Western Provincial Government (WPG) to ensure the facilities are maintained and shared among the football community in the Western Province.”
Further to visiting the JFK Stadium, Mr Marehare said they liaised with the WFA Executive on the Youth Centre construction project currently underway within the SIFF-owned area at the JFK Stadium.
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AUSTRALIA-BASED Solomon Islands professional boxer, Lemuel Silisia lost to Adam Flood for the Australasian Lightweight World Boxing Federation (WBF) Championship at Tam Vegas Arena in Australia.
He lost to Flood by way of Unanimous Decision (UD). UD decision is a winning criterion in boxing in which all judges agree on which fighter has won the match.
Silisia downed Flood to the floor in a dying minute in the 3rd round but Flood got up quickly by the referee count and quickly recovered.
Silisia ducked in to deliver the right hand with a powerful shot that landed Flood to the floor. That shot wasn’t able to let him win the bout that night.
Silisia, who hails from Malaita Province, entered the professional ring and was undefeated thrice by way of knock-outs before he met Flood last Saturday night for the “Class of the Titans-country vs the rest of the world.
His club One2boxing (O2B) Club thanked supporters, sponsors and media for making the night possible.
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SOLOMON Islands National Men’s U19 Team have again showed their class after a clean sheet victory in the OFC U19 Men’s Championship 2024 after defeating Tahiti 1-0 in their final group match in Samoa.
After defeating Vanuatu in their first match, defeating Fiji in their second match and Tahiti in their third match, Solomon Islands have confirmed their semi-final spot in the championship.
The win against Tahiti showed Solomon Islands class as the leaders of group A securing 9 points after their 3 straight wins in the group stage.
The Batram Suri-coached side started their OFC U19 Campaign with their first win of 1-0 against Vanuatu, their second 3-0 win against Fiji and their third 1-0 win against Tahiti.
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SOLOMON Islands National U19 Men’s Team have missed the chance to make history after losing to New Caledonia 3-2 in the semi final.
The New Caledonians denied the Batram Suri coached side after late goal scored during extra time to give New Caledonia their third goal after 2 all in fulltime.
Solomon Islands loss to New Caledonia denied them of a spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup 2025 in Chile. New Caledonia’s victory means they have secured a spot in the FIFA U20 World Cup 2025 in Chile.
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ANOTHER Solomon Islander has been signed up by Rewa Football Club (FC) of Fiji in a move to bolster their backline defence ahead of the Battle of the Giants (BOG) competition.
Stanton Alick has arrived in Fiji ahead of the competition to help Rewa. Rewa is currently competing in the Fiji National Football League.
Rewa Team Manager Lawrence Nath has confirmed the signing of the Solomon Islands’ international in an online interview with Star Sport yesterday.
Alick, who previously played for Central Coast FC.
Nath revealed Alick’s signing, highlights his extensive experience, including playing in the 2022 edition of the OFC Champions League.
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TWENTY-THREE (23) year old national forward John Orobulu stamps his name in Fiji after scoring several goals in his debut for Rewa Football Club (FC) in the Battle of the Giants (BOG) tournament.
Orobulu who made a dramatic move from Southern United FC to Fiji’s Rewa FC is now a rising star for his new Fijian Club.
The youngster is now under the spotlight at the 2024 Rooster Chicken/Scoops Ice Cream Battle of the Giants after scoring four opening goals for Rewa FC in a match against Nadroga FC on Saturday 27July where they defeated Nadroga by a wide score margin of 8-1.
Orobulu said in a post-match interview with Fijilive that he was happy to have scored the four goals for his team in the match which he described it as not enough for him.
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AUGUST
Former Solomon Islands professional footballer Henry Fa’arodo Jnr made a significant return to the national football scene, stepping into the role of a new SIFF National Academy Head Coach.
With an illustrious career as the most capped former international player, Fa’arodo now brings his wealth of experience to nurturing the next generation of football talents.
His transition from player to coach has been marked by a keen interest in youth development, making his new position a natural progression.
He holds an OFC/NZF C License and currently doing his OFC/NZF B License and has a Certificate ¾ Fitness from the Australian Institute of Fitness (AIF).
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SOLOMON Islands intends to participate in a professional league that Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) plans to organise in 2026.
Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) President Donald Marahare highlighted this during an interview with the High Park Communication of FIFA after he met with the FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Paris.
While the details of the proposed professional league remain sketchy, President Marahare said, “We talked about, basically, the situation regarding the commencement of the pro-league.”
“I did mention to the President the commitment on [behalf] of the Federation that we, definitely, will be fielding a team for the professional league that the OFC in particular is intending to run and start, not until 2026.”
He said, SIFF has indicated its commitment to sign up and be part of the pro-league.
“But we have already shown commitment to participate.”
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The visiting Australian Under-17 team, the Subway Joeys have bounced back in a sweet revenge to defeat the Solomon Islands Under 19 team 4-1 in the final leg of the two international friendlies at the National Stadium.
Joeys’ win against the host in the second and the final leg playoff last night in afront of a packed stadium was dubbed a sweet revenge for the visitors after suffering their first defeat 2-1 to the Batram Suri coached side.
After their first defeat, they recovered and regrouped for the final leg where they handed the Solomon Islands U19 a four-star performance in front of the home crowd.
It was revealed the Joeys made ten changes for match two, as head coach Brad Maloney continued to test his U-17 players against the older opposition during the PacificAusSports Football Tour.
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New Zealand have won the first-ever OFC Futsal Women’s Nations Cup after they overcame Fiji 7-1 in the final in Honiara.
As she has done on a number of occasions in this tournament, Kiwi captain Hannah Kraakman was the one to break the deadlock, opening the scoring inside two minutes to settle any nerves and give her side a platform to build upon.
Fiji’s energy and physicality was always likely to be the key to their chances and they caused the favourites a number of problems in the opening exchanges.
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August
THE 2024 Inaugural OFC Women’s Futsal Nations Cup tournament has been a learning experience for Solomon Islands.
That’s according to the Solomon Islands National Women’s Futsal Team Head Coach Arthur Barko after completing the tournament as the third runners up.
He told Star Sport that their debut at the recent OFC Women’s Futsal Nation’s Cup was a good learning experience of the team.
He said, despite failing to make it to the finals, the tournament serves as a good learning experience for the girls.
“Majority in the team are not Futsal players but eleven a-side football players.
“However, during the course of the tournament the girls have learned so much which can help them in the future,” Barko said.
He added, Futsal is a popular football code in the country, but there has been no inclusive of the girls in Futsal over the years.
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Junita Tonowane and James Gegeu are the proud flag bearers for Team Solomon during the official opening of the 2024 Paris Paralympics Games.
For Tonowane and Gegeu its their time time to participate in a Paralympics Games and they have marched proudly with pride flying the Solomon Islands flag amongst the hundreds of Para athletes around the world.
Almost 50,000 spectators converged at the De La Concorde to watch opening ceremony with millions watching via TV and online.
The event marks a memorable and first impression for the Solomon Islands national Para team that left the country on 24th August for France to participate in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
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SEPTEMBER
Australian Josh Smith has been named the country’s new national football team head coach.
Smith is in Suva, Fiji, to join the national squad for the Tri-Nations series against Fiji and Hong Kong China this week.
The much-anticipated announcement came after months of waiting by soccer fans since the departure of the former coach Felipe Vega-Arango in June.
Vega-Arango is now the new coach for Papua New Guinea (PNG) National football side.
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Solomon Islands National Para Athletes competing at the Paris Paralympics this year ended their competition with defeats in their respective events.
For the first time, Solomon Islands Para athletes embarked on a journey at the highest level of competition in their careers with defeats but instead create history.
It is understood a total of four athletes represented the country at the Paris Paralympics.
Three of them competed in Para-Taekwondo and one competes in Para-Athletics – Javelin.
Female Para-Taekwondo, Junita Tonowane represented Solomon Islands in the Women’s 65kg where she faced Denmark’s Lisa Gjessing in the Women’s 65kg division and was defeated 25-0.
Male Para-Taekwondo athlete, Solomon Jagiri was up against Iran’s Sadeghianpour Saeid in the Men’s 63kg Round of 16 and lost with a score of 28-2.
Before James Gegeu was up against Ramazanov Aliaskhab of Russia in the Men’s 80kg category and lost with a score of 16-0.
Cosmol Maefolia represented Solomon Islands in the Men’s F38 Javelin at Stade de France and achieved a season-best throw of 25.62 meters but finished last in his event.
These results in their first ever Paralympics debuts end the Solomon Islands campaign in the 2024 Paris Paralympics.
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OCTOBER
SIFF Super Futsal League (SSFL) defending champions Mataks Futsal Club (FC) had reclaimed the league title after the 2024 season concluded.
Mataks led by the former Kurukuru star Francis Lafai were recrowned the 2024 SSFL title after a perfect debut in the 2024 SSFL.
Throughout the season, Mataks played a total of 18 matches. They drew two matches, lost one and won 15 matches respectively.
Thus, Mataks proved dominance, winning the league 9 points clear with 44 points.
With the victory, the side walked away with the league champion’s gold medals, trophy and a cash prize of $50, 000.
DAWN put up a strong fight finishing second for the second time on 35 points and settle for silver medal and a cash prize of thirty-five thousand dollars.
While SALT claimed third place, rounding out the top three teams in the league and settled for bronze medal and cash prize of twenty-five thousand.
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SOLOMON Islands National Beach Soccer team Bilikiki have outclassed Papua New Guinea (PNG) in their second match of the OFC Beach Soccer Nations Cup at the SIFF Beach Court yest.
The hosts triumphantly rebounded from their first defeat and handed PNG a commanding victory of 17-4 full time score to give the Papua New Guineans their first defeat after their first win over Fiji.
Solomon Islands wasted no time in the first quarter of the match, scoring 4 goals before PNG scored their first goal.
In the second quarter, Solomon Islands continued to showcase strength and determination and further extended their lead with 7 goals, while PNG responded with another 2 goals to make taking the scoreline to 11-3.
Solomon Islands, with intense performance, further extended their lead in the third and the final quarter scoring another 6 goals raising the goal margin to 17-3 before PNG replied with one more goal.
PNG had several clear chances to score but failed to utilize them.
Solomon Islands with their first win after their narrow defeat to Tahiti are hopeful of beating Fiji this afternoon and proceed on to take on the Tahitians for the finals.
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SOLOMON Islands National Beach Soccer Team Bilikiki are through to the OFC Beach Soccer Nations Cup grand-final this Saturday 26 October despite their loss to Fiji.
Bilikiki lost its match with Fiji in a 6-5 penalty shootout but is qualified for the final against Tahiti after securing a win and 2 loses in 3 matches played and overtaking Fiji and PNG with goal differences. Fiji and PNG won 1 match each and both lost 2 matches.
Therefore, Solomon Islands’ Bilikiki will face Tahiti in the grand-final, while PNG will take on Fiji in the third-place playoff.
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Tahiti deny SI in pulsating conclusion to OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup with narrow victory.
The Tiki Toa have retained their OFC Beach Soccer Men’s Nations Cup title with a dramatic 3-2 win over the Solomon Islands in front of a passionate capacity crowd in Honiara last Saturday.
Teva Zaveroni’s side will travel to the Seychelles next year for the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup™ after having to dig deep to deny an inspired home side. It’s a shame after a sporting contest like this there has to be a loser, and both sides played like gladiators to produce a world class beach soccer final.
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THE FIFA rating for the SOLOMON Islands National Men’s Football Team has dropped by three positions.
The latest FIFA Ranking for Men’s Football released on Thursday 24 October saw Solomon Islands drop from 147 to 144, leaving them on the third spot in FIFA’s Oceania ranking. New Zealand maintains their top position for the Oceania region, while Fiji have replaced Solomon Islands in the second spot.
In the last FIFA ranking for Oceania, Solomon Islands ranked second to New Zealand.
The drop in FIFA ranking for Solomon Islands followed the Solomon Islands National Men’s Team’s defeats in their international tournaments this year.
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THE Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Makira-Ulawa Provincial Government (MUPG) to initiate the development of the proposed Kirakira Football Stadium (KFS).
SIFF confirmed the MoU signing was executed on Wednesday 30 October following their collaboration with MUPG through the Makira-Ulawa Provincial Football Association and said the MoU implementation will see the fruition of the proposed KFS
The signing marks a significant step towards expanding football facilities in the Makira provinces.
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NOVEMBER
SOLOMON Islands is set to host two major tournaments in Honiara in December.
These are the Oceania Rugby 7s (OR7s) and the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s (PM’s) Cup, an annual sub-regional football tournament.
The OR7s will be a two-day event to kick off on December 7. This will draw elite rugby talents from across the Pacific region.
As a key qualification event for global tournaments, the Oceania Rugby 7s tourney sees the selection of two men’s teams and one women’s team earn spots in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.
Teams from the Oceania region are expected to arrive in Honiara from December 2 to 4.
As for the MSG PM’s Cup, this football tournament will kick off with an official opening on December 8 and the tournament proper will proceed from December 10 to 22 at the National Stadium.
Solomon Islands are the current Cup holders and are looking forward to defending the title.
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SOLOMON Islands National Football team are set to take on Papua New Guinea (PNG) for their second group A match in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania qualifiers.
Solomon Islands will play PNG for their second group A match following their first defeat to Fiji 1-0 last month.
This leaves Solomon Islands with 2 group matches to play in group A – the match with PNG next Thursday 14 November and a match against the 17th Pacific Games champions New Caledonia on Saturday November 17.
Both matches will be played in PNG.
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THE Solomon Islands National Senior Men’s Football Team’s final 23-men squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania qualifiers against Papua New Guinea (PNG) and New Caledonia have been named.
SIFF confirmed that the National Senior Men’s Football Team final 23-men squad was announced by the Head Coach Josh Smith following weeks of preparation for the two OFC World Cup 2026 Oceania qualifiers to be played in PNG.
The new lineup sees four key adjustments to the squad that lost to Fiji in Suva last month.
Among the new additions are Labasa FC Forward Junior Fordney, who will bolster the attack. Defender Michael Boso who brings a valuable experience to the backline and Rovu Boyers and Vincent Luiga are set to make their senior debuts.
The 23-men final squad comprises 3 goal keepers, 9 defenders, 8 midfielders and 3 forwards.
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SOLOMON Islands National Men’s Soccer Team are gearing up for a critical week in their journey to the FIFA World Cup 2026 as they face New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea in their second and third Group A matches in the Oceania Qualifiers.
The two matches – one against New Caledonia on Thursday 14 November and the other against the hosts PNG on Sunday 17 November – will determine the two teams in Group A who will advance to the next phase of qualification by early next year.
Following a narrow 1-0 loss to Fiji in their opening match in Suva, Head Coach Joshua Smith is making strategic adjustments to get his squad back on track in Port Moresby.
The Solomon Islanders, who finished just shy of qualification in the last cycle, losing to New Zealand in the final, are once again vying to reach the semi-finals. With renewed focus under Smith’s leadership, the team have set their sight on overcoming their early setback and reigniting their qualification hopes.
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NEW Caledonia have one foot in the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers after an impressive come-from-behind victory of 3-2 over Solomon Islands at the PNG Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Having lost their opening Group A match in Suva last month to Fiji, the Josh Smith-coached side knew anything less than a win yesterday would leave them with a mountain to climb in their bid for a semi-final place.
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SOLOMON Islands have concluded their final pool match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Oceania Qualifiers Campaign World Cup Qualifier campaign with a 2-1 victory over Papua New Guinea in Port Moresby.
The Josh Smith-coached squad ended their campaign with only 3 points registered and therefore despite their victory over the hosts, they are still not qualified for the semi-final round which will be held in New Zealand in 2025.
Both sides – Solomon Islands and PNG – were resigned to their fate. Solomon Islands were eliminated after their loss to New Caledonia, whilst Fiji’s draw earlier meant Papua New Guinea could no longer advance to the semi-finals.
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THE Solomon Islands U23 development team training squad for the third edition of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s (PM’s) Cup in Honiara next month was announced on Monday by the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF).
The 31 players have made their cut into the U23 development team following the successful 2-day trials last week at the SIFF academy.
A 43-men squad was called up for the trials last week but only 31players caught the eyes of the coaching staff led by Eddie Marahare, Franco Ne’e and Stanley Waita.
The coaching staff have put together the 31-men training squad to continue intensive training as the second national side to represent the country at the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup.
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AUSTRALIA has contributed over SBD350,000 to support Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) and Oceania Rugby to host the region’s premiere rugby 7s tournament for the first time in Solomon Islands.
Australia’s support for Oceania Rugby Sevens 2024 includes:
• PacificAus Sports funding to help organisers host the tournament
• playing kit for the Solomon Islands men’s and women’s national 7s teams
• equipment including coach kits, rugby union balls, cones, pumps, vests, bags, referee kits, agility sets, recovery sets, hit shields, and game day support stretchers, compressors and first aid kits
As a member of Oceania Rugby, Australia will field men’s and women’s teams in the competition.
The Australia Defence Force women’s rugby 7s team is in Honiara playing practice matches with the Solomon Islands women’s national rugby 7s team to help get them game ready ahead of the tournament.
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DECEMBER
Regional teams have started arriving in Honiara ahead of the tournament on Saturday 7 December and Sunday 8 December.
Sporting contingents of Tonga and Samoa were the first to touchdown down in Honiara for the tournament – Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship 2024.
The contingents were welcomed on arrival at the airport by a Solomon Islands cultural dance group and delegations from the Oceania Rugby Sevens (ORS) and Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF).
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THREE more teams have arrived for the Oceania Rugby Sevens tournament and these are Fiji, Niue and the defending champions Australia.
These new arrivals join the contingents of Samoa, Tonga and New Caledonia who arrived earlier. Samoa and Tonga arrived last weekend and New Caledonia on Tuesday.
Arriving on the same flight with the Fiji contingent were the regional rugby officials who will be officiating the tournament.
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THE man considered as the greatest rugby sevens player of all time, Waisale Serevi has arrived in Honiara to cheer on his Fijian compatriots competing in the Oceania Rugby Sevens Tournament in Honiara.
Serevi more than lives up to his GOAT (greatest of all time) status.
He has won the Hong Kong Sevens five times, making him one of the most successful rugby sevens’ players of all time in 1990, he was named player of the tournament after Fiji won the first of three consecutive Hong Kong Sevens titles and in 1992, he was again named player of the tournament.
Adding to his long list of honours, he won a silver medal at the 1998 and 2002 Commonwealth Games and a bronze medal in 2006.
Waisale Serevi (second from right) with (from left) Solomon Islands Rugby Union Football Vice-President (development), Moses Tepai, Oceania Rugby Sevens Tournament Director, Wayne Schuster, Tourism Solomons Head of Sales & Marketing, Fiona Teama and Miss Solomon Islands Elsie Polosavai
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Solomon Islands National Men’s Rugby Team settled on the 9th position and the National Women’s Rugby Team on the 4th position as the 2024 Oceania Rugby Sevens concluded in Honiara.
The Solomon Islands Men’s National Rugby Team settled for the ninth position after defeating Vanuatu in the ninth-place final 24-7, while the Solomon Islands National Women’s Rugby Team settled in the fourth place after losing to Tonga in the third and fourth place play off.
Meanwhile, the Samoa men’s Team were jubilant as they received the Oceania Rugby Sevens Championship title for the men’s category after defeating Fiji in the grand-final with a score of 17-5. Likewise, the Fiji Women’s Team received the championship title after overcoming Samoa in the grand-final with a 14-5 score.
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SOLOMON Islands National Football team have registered their first win in their MSG-PM’S Cup 2024 after defeating Vanuatu 4-1 at the Lawson Tama stadium.
Solomon Islands in their opener match against Vanuatu saw them send out a clear signal to the four others teams that they are the defending champions.
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SOLOMON Islands National Senior Men’s team secured their second win in their campaign in the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Ministers’ (PMs’) Cup 2024 after defeating the Solomon Islands Development Team 2-0.
The National Team’s two goals came in the second half after a team talk at half-time. Thanks to Bobby Lesley and Alwin Hou for the two goals.
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THE Solomon Islands National Development Team end their campaign in the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Ministers’ (PMs’) Cup 2024 after suffering their fourth defeat to Fiji 3-0.
The national development side’s final match against Fiji was tough and entertaining.
The first half of the match saw both teams worked extremely hard to secure goals but were unsuccessful before the half time whistle.
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PAPUA New Guinea have replaced Solomon Islands as the football champions of the Melanesian sub-region.
PNG have won the third edition of the Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Ministers’ Cup tournament last Saturday after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Vanuatu.
Solomon Islands, who were the champions from the second edition of the Melanesian sub-regional tournament, settled on the third spot after being defeated 3-1 by Fiji.
Each team played a total of four matches each in five inconsecutive days, commencing on Monday 9 December and concluding on Saturday 21 December.
PNG topped the table with 10 points after their win over the Solomon Islands National Development side on the Day One of the tourney, a draw with Fiji on Day Three, a win over Solomon Islands National Side on Day 4 and a final win over Vanuatu on Day Five, placing them to clinch the trophy after completing their four matches in the round robin format.
Fiji, on the other hand, settled on second spot with 8 points after a draw with Vanuatu in their first match on Day Two of the tourney, a draw with PNG on Day Three, a win against the Solomon Islands National Development Side on Day Four and a win against Solomon Islands National Side on Day Five.
Solomon Islands settled on the third spot with only 6 points after a win over Vanuatu in their first match on Day One of the tourney, a win against the Solomon Islands National Development Side on Day Two, a loss to PNG on Day Four and another loss to Fiji on Day Five.
Vanuatu settled on the fourth spot after securing only 4 points after their first loss to the Solomon Islands National Side on Day One of the tourney, a draw with Fiji on Day Two, a win over the Solomon Islands National Development Side on Day Three and a loss to PNG on Day Four.
The Solomon Islands National Development settled on the last spot with zero points after losing all their four matches.
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