★ Fri, 16 Oct 2026 ·HONIARA ·Updated daily

All Updates · Sports

All collected updates from verified Solomon Islands sources.

Katukatu to face unbeaten Fiji in crucial OFC U-16 semi-final showdown in Port Moresby

BY RICHARD MENANOPO The Solomon Islands Under-16 men’s football team, Katukatu will face its toughest challenge yet when it takes on an unbeaten Fiji in the semi-finals of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 on Wednesday in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. According to match information shared by the PNG Football Association and tournament updates from AUFFI Australia, the highly anticipated semi-final will kick off at 4:00pm (AEST) at the PNG Football Stadium, with a place in the championship final at stake. The encounter pits Group B runners-up Solomon Islands against a confident Fiji side that topped Group A after completing a flawless group campaign. Fiji heads into the knockout clash with an impressive record of three wins from three matches, scoring 10 goals without conceding a single goal, making the Young Bula Boys one of the tournament favourites. Despite Fiji’s dominant form, Solomon Islands has shown resilience throughout the tournament to earn its place among Oceania’s top four youth teams and will be determined to upset the Group A winners. The second semi-final will see tournament heavyweight New Zealand meet host nation Papua New Guinea at 7:30pm (AEST) at the same venue. The winners of Wednesday’s fixtures will progress to the grand final, while the defeated teams will contest the third-place playoff. Tournament organisers have described the semi-finals as two blockbuster clashes featuring some of Oceania’s brightest young football talents, with football fans in Papua New Guinea expected to turn out in strong numbers. Tickets for both matches are available at the stadium gate for K5. Supporters unable to attend the matches can watch both semi-finals live and free through the Oceania Football Confederation’s official YouTube channel. For Solomon Islands, Wednesday’s contest presents another opportunity for the country’s emerging footballers to test themselves against one of the region’s strongest youth sides and move within one victory of continental glory. The OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 is being staged in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, featuring eight Oceania nations divided into two groups. Fiji, Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and Solomon Islands advanced to the semi-finals after finishing in the top two positions of their respective groups, with the tournament also serving as a platform to showcase the region’s next generation of football stars. Photo credit: OFC Media/fb page For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

KOSSA FC receives timely boost ahead of upcoming Telekom S-League season

BY RICHARD MENANOPO KOSSA Football Club has received a timely boost ahead of the upcoming Telekom S-League season following the donation of football boots and goalkeeper gloves from supporters Diana Dettke, Bodo Dettke and their family. The club announced the contribution through its official Facebook page, describing the donation as a generous and timely gesture that will assist preparations for the new domestic football season. According to the club, the donation was facilitated through former Solomon Islands national team coach and current KOSSA FC coach Franco Ne’e, who worked closely with the Dettke family during his time with Solomon Warriors. “The S-League season is approaching, and we understand that many of our supporters and sponsors have their own commitments. This timely assistance from Diana Dettke and Bodo Dettke is truly appreciated. “I am currently working with the football academy and youth teams while also assisting the senior team whenever needed. I can confidently say that the players will be delighted to receive these football boots and goalkeeper gloves. “Thank you, Mr. and Mrs. Dettke, for making this possible,” Ne’e said. Ne’e also encourages KOSSA FC supporters and fans to continue backing the club in whatever way they can, noting that the senior team, youth teams and the club’s School of Excellence all require ongoing support. The club said it welcomes assistance from individuals, families, businesses and organisations willing to contribute to the continued growth of football at KOSSA FC. KOSSA FC also expressed its heartfelt appreciation to Diana Dettke, Bodo Dettke and their family for their generosity, saying the donation will make a lasting difference to the club both on and off the field. KOSSA FC is one of the Solomon Islands’ long-established football clubs based in Honiara and is preparing for another Telekom S-League campaign. Alongside its senior squad, the club also operates youth development programmes and its School of Excellence, with the aim to nurture the next generation of footballers. Photo credit: KOSSA Football Club For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

PARA PATHWAY

Solomon Islands coaches and para-athlete complete w orld ar chery coaching course in Tonga, bringing home new skills BY RICHARD MENANOPO The Archery Federation of Solomon Islands is set to receive a significant boost in para-archery development after two national coaches and a para-athlete successfully completed an international coaching course in Tonga. According to a statement shared by the Archery Federation of Solomon Islands, coaches Andrew Lano and Janet Saru, alongside para-archer Rose Lidia, successfully completed the five-day World Archery Para Coaching Course held in Tonga from July 15 to 19. The federation said the intensive programme combined both classroom theory and practical sessions, equipping participants with essential knowledge and coaching techniques tailored for para-archery. “The five-day intensive training course combined theory and practical sessions, equipping participants with essential knowledge and skills in para-archery coaching, including the design and creation of adaptive equipment to support archers with different abilities,” the statement said. As part of the course, participants also applied their newly acquired skills by designing and conducting a friendly competition known as the Oceania Para Archery League (OPAL), with the aim to create a level playing field for athletes of different abilities. “The coaches designed a unique competition called OPAL (Oceania Para Archery League), which challenged every archer while ensuring a level playing field for all participants,” the federation said. The competition also produced encouraging results for Solomon Islands, with Rose Lidia finishing second to claim the silver medal. Fiji’s Leslie won gold, while Vanuatu’s Jeffery secured the bronze medal. The federation said the Solomon Islands delegation is scheduled to return home on Wednesday, bringing with them valuable knowledge, practical experience and modern coaching techniques expected to contribute to the continued growth and development of para-archery in the country. The World Archery Para Coaching Course brought together coaches and para-athletes from across the Oceania region to strengthen coaching capacity and promote greater inclusion in archery. For Solomon Islands, the successful completion of the programme marks another positive step to build opportunities for athletes living with disabilities while expanding the country’s coaching expertise in para-archery. Photo credit: Archery Federation of Solomon Islands For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-21 Original ↗

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

INTO FINAL FOUR

Katukatu books semi-final spot with 3-1 win over Tahiti BY JOSES SAREN Solomon Islands has booked their place in the semi-finals of the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship after a deserved 3-1 victory over Tahiti in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on Sunday, setting up a last-four meeting with Fiji. According to a statement from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), both sides knew victory would keep their title hopes alive, with Solomon Islands adopting an aggressive high-pressing approach from the outset and looking to exploit the pace of Greggy Gau and George Le’ai on the counterattack. Le’ai broke the deadlock in the 26th minute, latching onto a pass from Walcott Kona before bursting past Tahiti defender Steevy Peckett and firing a right-footed strike into the top corner to send Solomon Islands into the break with the lead. The advantage was doubled three minutes into the second half when Gau raced beyond the Tahiti defence and slipped the ball to Jayer Makarani, who drilled a low finish into the near post from outside the area. Tahiti responded through Esdras Jamet in the 53rd minute, turning home Akahi Paoa’s corner to cut the deficit and threaten a comeback. Solomon Islands held firm, controlling possession and frustrating Tahiti’s build-up play, before Gau settled the contest in stoppage time. Released by a long clearance from Soka, the forward surged clear of the defence and slotted home to complete the 3-1 win. Man-of-the-match Le’ai credited the team’s preparation and unity for the win. “Firstly, I want to thank God for the strength and energy He gave the boys to work together. “Thank you to the boys for following the game plan the coach gave us. We’re looking forward to the semi-final,” he said. On the Fiji clash ahead, Le’ai said the squad will focus on hard work and cohesion. “For the semi-final against Fiji, all the boys will work hard and work together as we look forward to the next game,” he said. He also has a message for supporters back home. “Thank you to the fans back in Solomon Islands for your prayers and support,” he said. The result sends Solomon Islands through to a semi-final with Fiji, who topped Group A despite a 3-0 defeat to hosts Papua New Guinea in their final pool match, with PNG advancing as runners-up. Solomon Islands will face Fiji in the semi-final on Wednesday, 22 July, kicking off at 4:00pm local time at the PNG Football Stadium. The winner, runner-up and third place teams under the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship will automatically qualify for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2027 in Qatar. Photo credit: OFC For feedback, contact: josessaren@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

Rooney to return home after legendary spell with Sussex club Westfield FC

BY JOHN HOUANIHAU Solomon Islands footballer Rooney Riugaemai is set to return home after completing a remarkable three-year journey with Westfield Football Club, a Sussex-based club in England, where he established himself as one of the club’s greatest players. Westfield FC confirmed in a farewell statement released on July 18 that Rooney made his final appearance in the club’s ‘Yellow and Green’ colours during a pre-season fixture before heading back to the Solomon Islands to reunite with his family. The striker leaves the English club with an outstanding record of 106 goals in 97 appearances, a feat Westfield described as a phenomenal achievement and one that has secured his place in the club’s history. Westfield said Rooney’s contribution went beyond his goalscoring record, praising his character, humility and commitment since joining the club as a 19-year-old with huge potential. The Sussex club said Rooney arrived as a young player but developed into not only an exceptional footballer but also a respected member of the Westfield community. Westfield chairman Jack Stapley said the club was saddened to lose its star striker but was pleased that Rooney would finally have the opportunity to return home and reunite with his family. “We knew this day would come at some point, but it doesn’t make it any easier as Rooney leaves us to head back home to reunite with his family. “Coming to Westfield as a 19-year-old and very much a boy, Rooney has grown not only as a player but as a person. Scoring 106 goals in 97 games is no mean feat,” Stapley said. Stapley described Rooney as one of the nicest people associated with the club and said he believed the Solomon Islands forward could continue to achieve success after returning home. During his three seasons with Westfield, Rooney became a favourite among supporters and a key figure for the club, earning recognition for his professionalism, goal-scoring ability and dedication every time he wore the Westies shirt. Westfield thanked Rooney for his service, saying he leaves as a prolific goal scorer but more importantly as a lifelong friend of the club. “Thank you for the goals. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for representing Westfield Football Club with pride every single time you pulled on the Westies shirt,” the club said. The return of Rooney is expected to generate excitement among Solomon Islands football supporters, who will be keen to follow the next chapter of the former Westfield star’s career on home soil. Photo credit: Westfield FC Club For feedback, contact: jhouanihau24@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

Team Solomon Unveils 13 Athletes, Announces Leadership Change Ahead of Glasgow 2026

Team Solomon names 13 athletes for Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and announces a new Chef de Mission ahead of the event. Team Solomon has officially unveiled its “Meet the Athletes” campaign, introducing the 13 athletes who will represent Solomon Islands at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The team includes athletes competing across Athletics, Boxing, Judo, [...] The post Team Solomon Unveils 13 Athletes, Announces Leadership Change Ahead of Glasgow 2026 appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .

Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

SEMI-FINAL BOUND! National Men's U-16 Side Reach OFC Championship Semi-finals with Impressive Win Over Tahiti

SEMI-FINAL BOUND! National Men's U-16 Side Reach OFC Championship Semi-finals with Impressive Win Over Tahiti By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR Star Sports, Honiara The Solomon Islands men's national U-16 football team has secured a place in the semi-finals of the 2026 OFC U-16 Men's Championship after a thrilling 3-1 victory over Tahiti in their final Group B match on Sunday at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. With a semi-final spot on the line, both teams entered the match knowing only a win would guarantee progression, setting the stage for a highly competitive encounter. Solomon Islands settled into the game well, enjoying the majority of possession in the opening stages, while Tahiti looked dangerous from aerial balls and set pieces. Coach Henry Fa'arodo Jr's side broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute when Walcott Kona delivered a perfectly weighted through ball to George Leai, who cut in from the left before calmly finishing past Tahiti goalkeeper Tuanui Manea. The goal lifted young side's confidence as they continued to dominate possession and created several more scoring opportunities, only to be denied by the impressive Manea. Tahiti also threatened late in the first half but failed to convert their chances, leaving Solomon Islands with a deserved 1-0 lead at the break. Just three minutes after the restart, Jayer Makarani doubled the lead with a powerful low left-footed strike that beat Manea. Tahiti responded five minutes later when Esdras Jamet found the back of the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1 and reignite his side's hopes of reaching the semi-finals. The remainder of the second half belonged largely to Tahiti, who piled on the pressure in search of an equaliser. However, the Solomon Islands defence stood firm, with goalkeeper Eddie Aefi producing a series of crucial saves to preserve the lead. As Tahiti committed more players forward deep into stoppage time, Solomon Islands struck on the counterattack. A long ball from defence found Gregy Gau, who raced clear, rounded Manea and calmly rolled the ball into an empty net to seal a memorable 3-1 victory. Speaking after the match, head coach Henry Fa'arodo Jr praised his players for executing the game plan and earning a place in the final four. "I think we came out with a game plan and we know our strength, we know their strength. We just had to deal with all the aerial balls and I think that's the biggest positive we'll take out from today's game. At the same time, the way we retained possession was also very pleasing." Fa'arodo also highlighted the growth his young squad has shown throughout the tournament. "I think they've grown with every game from New Zealand to Vanuatu and now Tahiti. They've developed not only as players but also as young men. "The way they respond to our instructions and apply them on the pitch by themselves has been a great learning experience for them." Solomon Islands will now face Fiji in the first semi-final on Wednesday at the PNG Football Stadium, with a place in the 2026 OFC U-16 Men's Championship final and FIFA U-17 World Cup at stake. Photo: OFC

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Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

SPAIN - THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS

SPAIN - THE 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP CHAMPIONS Spain have been crowned FIFA World Cup 2026 champions after dethroning 10-man Argentina 1-0 after extra time in a dramatic final. After a tense contest that remained goalless through 90 minutes, Spain finally found the breakthrough in extra time when Ferran Torres struck the decisive goal to hand La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title. Argentina battled bravely despite being reduced to 10 men, but they were unable to deny the Spaniards, who produced a disciplined and determined performance to lift football's most prestigious trophy. The defeat also marked the end of an era for Argentina captain Lionel Messi, whose final FIFA World Cup appearance concluded with a runners-up medal. Although he fell short of another World Cup triumph, the football legend once again demonstrated his class by guiding Argentina to the final, adding another remarkable achievement to his illustrious career. Spain's triumph caps off an outstanding tournament in which they overcame some of the world's strongest teams to claim global glory. Congratulations to Spain on a deserved FIFA World Cup 2026 victory and for being crowned the new world champions. Photo by FIFA

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Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-20 Original ↗

Makira Ulawa eyes sports

Makira Ulawa eyes sports infrastructure boost By FLOYD TERRY JNR Solomon Star, Honiara Makira Ulawa Province is moving closer to strengthening its sports development agenda following high-level discussions between the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government and the Sports Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs on future sports infrastructure and grassroots development. According to Hon. Donald Tahani, MPA, who is also the Head of Delegation for the Makira Ulawa Province Solomon Games Contingent 2026, the meeting covered a wide range of issues aimed at improving sports across the province. During the discussions, the Director of Sports provided an overview of the country's sports structure, ongoing programs, and current sports infrastructure projects being implemented throughout Solomon Islands. The meeting also examined the role of the National Sports Council and the pathway for athletes, from grassroots participation through to national and international competition. A key focus of the meeting was the development of sports infrastructure in Makira Ulawa Province to promote and advance sporting opportunities for local communities. Hon. Tahani said both parties acknowledged that achieving these goals will require close collaboration between the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government and the Sports Division under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The meeting concluded with an agreement for both sides to begin work on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), consent documents, and a Provincial Executive decision to progress the proposed sports development initiatives. Makira Ulawa Premier Hon. Stanley Siapu expressed his appreciation to the Director of Sports for providing valuable insight into sports development opportunities available through the Sports Division. He reaffirmed his government's full support for any sports development projects implemented in the province and looked forward to continued communication and partnership with the Ministry. The Premier said the discussions align with the Makira Ulawa Provincial Government's policy direction to strengthen sports development across the province. Hon. Tahani said the impressive performance of Makira Ulawa athletes during the 2026 Solomon Games has further highlighted the need for significant investment in sports infrastructure to support future generations of athletes. "As Head of Delegation for the current Makira Ulawa Sports Contingent, the success of our teams during the Games has only strengthened the call for a major sports infrastructure programme to support and further develop sports in Makira Ulawa Province," he said. He also thanked the Director of Sports for the opportunity to establish stronger collaboration to ensure provincial athletes receive the necessary support from the grassroots level in villages and communities through to higher levels of competition. The discussions also emphasized the importance of regularly hosting provincial games and school games, not only to encourage sports participation but also to identify talented athletes for further coaching and development as potential representatives of Solomon Islands in future national teams. //End///Photo Official photo after the discussion. Photo supplied.

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Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-19 Original ↗

Eels Bounce Back After Disappointing OFC Champions League Campaign

Eels Bounce Back After Disappointing OFC Champions League Campaign By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR Star Sports, Honiara Henderson Eels Women's Football Club (FC) made a strong return to the 2026 Solrais Women's Premier League (SWPL) with an emphatic 8-0 victory over West Honiara FC on Saturday at King George East End Park. The defending champions bounced back in style after a disappointing 2026 OFC Women's Champions League campaign on home soil earlier this month, where they were eliminated in the group stage after conceding a total of 21 goals. Godfrey Manehioha's side also returned to domestic action after their scheduled league fixture last week was postponed. Following the win Henderson Eels now sits in third place on the SWPL standings with 19 points from eight matches following Matchweek Nine. They also have a game in hand ahead of the second round of the competition, which begins next weekend. Elsewhere, Geniagu United FC maintained fifth place with 16 points after recording a dominant 9-0 victory over bottom-placed Marist FC. Koloale FC also strengthened their position above the bottom three with a hard-fought win over Ghupo Wantoks FC, who started the match with only 10 players. The victory moves Koloale into seventh place with seven points from nine matches. Meanwhile, following an exciting Matchweek Nine, the 2026 SWPL now reaches its halfway point, with the second half of the season set to kick off this coming weekend.

Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-19 Original ↗

U16 BOYS SECURE SEMI-FINAL SPOT

U16 BOYS SECURE SEMI-FINAL SPOT Solomon Islands advance to the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 semi finals. This came after a victory over Tahiti in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea this afternoon. ... See more

Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-19 Original ↗

THREE LIONS ROAR TO BRONZE WITH 6-4 WIN OVER FRANCE

THREE LIONS ROAR TO BRONZE WITH 6-4 WIN OVER FRANCE England secured the bronze medal at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after defeating France 6-4 in a dramatic third-place playoff this morning. ... See more

Solomon Star Sports · 2026-07-19 Original ↗

ROUND SIX BEGINS

Top clashes set to headline another busy weekend as Honiara Netball Association competition resumes BY RICHARD MENANOPO The Honiara Netball Association (HNA) will stage another full schedule of matches this weekend with Round Six of its 2026 league competition set to get underway at the Honiara netball courts. According to the official Round Six fixtures released by the Honiara Netball Association on its social media platform, a total of 26 matches will be played across the Super, A, B and C divisions between Saturday, July 18 (today), and Wednesday, July 22. The action begins today with seven Super and A Division fixture on Court One, headlined by Sunrise 1 taking on SISCC 1 at 9am before SISCC 2 meets Lauru 1 at 10:30am. Other key matches will see Sosa Faywright face Southerns 1, Marist Tesa 1 take on Western Magic, Isa Purple meet Phoenix 1, G/Berets 2 battle Owaraha 1, while West Rennell wraps up Saturday’s top division fixtures against Hale 1. Court Two will simultaneously host 10 B and C Division matches, beginning with Marist Tesa 2 against Amara at 8:30am before Tehila faces Duavata. The day’s programme also includes Sunrise 2 versus Owaraha 2, Isa Green against Real Lights, Manawai versus Police 2, Hale 2 against G/Berets 3, SISCC 3 versus Bokolo, Ranosi against Diesel, Isa Blue against Doves, and Lauru 2 meeting SEWA 2. The competition continues on Monday with Police 1 taking on Suvania 1 in the Super and A Division, while Manuiki meets SEWA 1. In the B and C Division, Stoneland faces Nitas and Kolei takes on Southerns 2. Round Six concludes on Wednesday with Lakers playing G/Berets 1 and Suvania 2 meeting Phoenix 2 in the Super and A Division. Woodford 2 will face Lauru 3, Southerns 3 plays Woodford 1, while SEWA 3 meets Rendo Netters in the remaining B and C Division fixtures. The latest round is expected to provide another important opportunity for clubs to strengthen their positions on the competition ladder as the 2026 HNA season gathers momentum. The Honiara Netball Association’s 2026 league season features clubs competing across the Super, A, B and C divisions and has continued to attract strong participation from teams throughout Honiara. The weekly competition serves as the capital’s premier domestic netball league and plays an important role in developing players, officials and emerging talent for higher-level competitions. Photo credit: HNA File For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-18 Original ↗

Australian High Commissioner joins HookIn4Health session, encouraging Solomon Islands’ next generation of hockey talent

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Australian High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Jeff Roach, encourages young Solomon Islands hockey players to continue pursuing the sport after joining a development session at the National Hockey Centre in Honiara this week. According to information shared by HookIn4Health Solomon Islands on its official social media platform on Wednesday, Mr. Roach, accompanied by his daughter and Australian High Commission Second Secretary for Strategic Communication and Public Diplomacy, Charlie Harrison-Gehrmann, visited the programme and spent time interacting with young athletes both on and off the field. The visit saw the Australian delegation join friendly hockey activities with participants, creating what HookIn4Health described as a memorable experience that highlighted sport’s ability to connect communities and inspire young people. Speaking during the visit, Mr. Roach said hockey has been part of his life for decades and hopes the young players will continue to develop the sport in Solomon Islands. “It is an honour to visit HookIn4Health here in Honiara and see so many talented young hockey players. Hockey has been my sport for more than 20 years, and I hope these young players will one day become a strong national hockey team for Solomon Islands,” he said. HookIn4Health said it was privileged to host the Australian High Commissioner, noting that his passion for hockey and willingness to join the young athletes on the pitch made the visit especially meaningful. The organisation also acknowledged the delegation’s thoughtful gesture of providing bottled water to participants, describing it as another sign of their support and encouragement for the programme. “Moments like these remind us that sport has the power to bring people together, build meaningful connections and inspire our young people to dream big,” the organisation said. HookIn4Health thanked the Australian High Commission for taking time to engage with the programme and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen partnerships that promote youth development, healthy lifestyles and stronger communities through hockey. HookIn4Health Solomon Islands is a community-based hockey development programme that uses sport as a platform to promote healthy living, youth empowerment and social inclusion. Working alongside the Solomon Islands Hockey Federation and development partners, the programme continues to provide opportunities for young people to learn hockey while developing life skills and building stronger community connections through sport. Photo credit: HookIn4Health Solomon Islands For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-18 Original ↗

Western Cup moved to September

Western Cup moved to September The Western Cup football tournament has been postponed until September after officials determined the John F. Kennedy soccer field in Gizo requires more time to complete renovations and become safe for competition. Organisers say the delay will help protect the upgraded playing surface while giving participating teams additional time to prepare.

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-18 Original ↗

For the first time, a Solomon Islands para archery coach is representing the country at a regional training programme in Tonga aimed at strengthening coaching skills and technic...

For the first time, a Solomon Islands para archery coach is representing the country at a regional training programme in Tonga aimed at strengthening coaching skills and technical knowledge in the sport. The week-long programme, organised by World Archery and implemented by World Archery Oceania, has brought together coaches from across the Pacific to build capacity and support the growth of para archery throughout the region. The training marks an important milestone for Sol... See more

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Tavuli Sports · 2026-07-17 Original ↗

17th of July, 2026

17th of July, 2026 Welcome to your 6PM News & Sports Update with ZFM Radio — bringing you today’s top stories and highlights.

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ZFM 99.5 Sports · 2026-07-17 Original ↗

COMEBACK WIN

Lea’i and Gau inspire Solomon Islands to first victory at OFC U-16 Men’s Championship after recovering from an early setback BY RICHARD MENANOPO Solomon Islands kept their hopes alive at the OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 with a spirited 2-1 comeback victory over fellow Melanesian rival Vanuatu in Port Moresby yesterday. According to the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the win handed the Solomon Islands their first three points in Group A after bouncing back from a heavy opening-round defeat to New Zealand, while Vanuatu remained without a win after suffering their second straight loss. Needing a positive response after a 5-1 defeat to New Zealand, the young Solomon Islands side showed resilience to overturn a one-goal deficit and finish the first half in front. The Solomon Islands had an early opportunity to seize control when striker George Lea’i earned a penalty in the 13th minute after being brought down inside the box following a well-timed through pass from Walcott Kona. However, Lea’i’s spot kick sailed over the crossbar, allowing Vanuatu to escape. Vanuatu capitalised on that missed chance in the 30th minute when captain Russle Allaleo took advantage of a defensive lapse to calmly slot home the opening goal. The lead proved short-lived as Solomon Islands responded just five minutes later through Greggy Gau, whose powerful long-range strike flew beyond the Vanuatu goalkeeper to restore parity. The momentum quickly shifted in Solomon Islands’ favour, and Lea’i redeemed himself before halftime. Winning possession high up the field, the forward unleashed a speculative shot from distance that caught goalkeeper Ezekiel Tasso off guard and nestled into the back of the net to complete the comeback. The 2-1 advantage remained intact for the remainder of the match as Solomon Islands secured a valuable victory in the tightly contested Melanesian encounter. OFC noted that the determined fightback highlighted the character of the Solomon Islands side after their disappointing opening result. The post-match report stated, “The win hands Solomon Islands their first three points of the tournament, while Vanuatu remain in search of their first victory”. The result lifts Solomon Islands back into contention in Group A as the race for the knockout stages continues. The OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 is being hosted in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, featuring eight Oceania nations. The tournament also serves as the region’s qualification event for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2027, with three qualification spots on offer. Solomon Islands entered this year’s championship seeking a first regional title, having previously finished runners-up twice and qualified once for the FIFA U-17 World Cup. Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-17 Original ↗

Stephen Rahuasi begins final preparations ahead of Glasgow 2026

BY RICHARD MENANOPO Team Solomon athlete Stephen Rahuasi has arrived in Brisbane, Australia, to begin a one-week pre-departure training camp as part of his final preparations for the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. Rahuasi will use the camp to fine-tune his preparation ahead of the Games and will compete in the 800m event at the University of Queensland Winter Series Meet this Saturday, 18 July. Following the competition, Rahuasi will join the rest of Team Solomon as they depart for Scotland on Thursday, 23 July, ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games. The Solomon Islands athlete will represent the country in athletics as part of the 13-member Team Solomon squad heading to Glasgow. The Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games will be held from 23 July to 2 August, with Team Solomon sending a 13-member contingent to compete across several sporting codes. For feedback, contact: mnorichard4@gmail.com Editor: irwin3angiki@gmail.com

Island Sun Sports · 2026-07-17 Original ↗