KURUKURU national coach Damon Shaw is leaving the country after completing his assignment to lead the national futsal side.
He was appointed in March last year.
In a final note posted online on Thursday he wrote; “Time to say goodbye to Solomon Islands. Another chapter closed and the biggest challenge of my career so far with some amazing memories.
“We aimed to win the OFC Futsal Nations Cup, but it wasn’t to be and New Zealand, who have been on this path for a long time, deservedly took the place at the FIFA Futsal World Cup. We were close, and I am proud of everyone who played their part. Well done to everyone at NZ Futsal and good luck for the World Cup.”
He said, he took over a team in transition, with the heavy weight of expectations on their shoulders but history doesn’t win you games.
“We fought until the last seconds and on another day, it could have been Solomon Islands going to their 5th World Cup.
“It’s on my watch that we didn’t qualify, but nobody let the country down. The team is in great shape, with an average age of 22, ready to fight to get back the crown of Oceania.
“We started well winning the Melanesian Futsal Cup and got a historic draw with the Futsalroos in Sydney.
:”The Asian trips were tough but great experiences and we have some way to go to compete with the likes of Vietnam and Thailand.
“I’m sure with the right development, though, in several years, results will get closer and I still believe Kurukuru can be a last 8 team in the future,” the English man said.
He also offered his thanks to SIFF for backing the team in 2023, especially William Lai, who appointed him, and President Don Marahare for the continued support of the team.
“Of course, grateful to all the players and coaches I worked alongside. Thank you for your efforts and hard work.”
He said, Solomon Islands will be back because there many talents in the country and with a proper development plan in place, the ceiling for these boys and girls is high.
“I will always be on hand to help and guide where I can and who knows, maybe one day I’ll be back. Solomon Islands is like home to me and I can’t wait to see the progress of the young boys I coached.
“In the mean time I will be flying the Solo flag wherever I go next because me blo Solo na and me save most lo kanderi will be supporting me! Go Solo Go!” he said.
