BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
In Hamilton, NZ
THE 2026 Honiara Volleyball League (HVL), originally scheduled to kick off this weekend, has been postponed and will now begin next month.
The new opening date has been set for Sunday, September 6, with clubs urged to continue their preparations ahead of the competition.
Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation (SIVF) President, Morris Maitaki, confirmed the revised date, saying the decision followed discussions with the Honiara Volleyball Association (HVA) president and secretary.
“Once all formalities are confirmed, we will send out a notice to all Honiara clubs,” Maitaki said.
He also urges clubs to remain prepared for the upcoming Honiara Championships League.
“Please get prepared to participate in the upcoming Honiara Championships League, which will kick off in the first week of next month,” he said.
The entry fee has been set at $1,000 per team, with both the men’s and women’s competitions expected to be played in pools.
Ten clubs have been confirmed for the 2026 HVL: Rainbow, Avaiki Southerns, Ma’anu, Honiara Blazers, Lakers, Atolls, SINU, East Honiara, Taina and Soa United.
Proposed prize money for both the men’s and women’s competitions are as follows:
1st place: $6,000
2nd place: $4,000
3rd place: $3,000
4th place: $2,000
Photo credit: Elton Lonaratha Jnr
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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
In Hamilton, NZ
Final beach volleyball trials will be conducted today following a successful opening session at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS) High Performance (HP) Centre beach court on Wednesday.
Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation (SIVF) President Morris Maitaki told SunSPORTS that the trials mark the first stage of the federation’s preparations for the upcoming Oceania Beach Volleyball Championship, scheduled to be held in Rarotonga, Cook Islands, in October.
The trials involve senior men’s and women’s players, as well as U20 boys and girls.
Maitaki said the Oceania championship will serve as a qualifier for the AVC Championship, with rankings also taken into consideration.
“This is also our first build-up for the Pacific Games in Tahiti next year,” he said.
Maitaki thanked the senior beach volleyball players and juniors who made the effort to attend Wednesday’s opening trial.
He said today’s final session will form part of the selection process, with the squads expected to be trimmed over the next six weeks as preparations continue.
The final trial will commence from 4pm to 6pm today at the SINIS HP Centre beach court.
Photo: Supplied
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NSC recognition opens new pathway for facilities, high performance, governance and funding
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Solomon Islands Chess Federation (SICF) has secured formal recognition from the National Sports Council (NSC), a development expected to strengthen the administration and long-term development pathway of chess in the country.
The federation announced the milestone following approval of its registration by the NSC Board, giving SICF access to a range of opportunities previously outside its formal sporting structure.
The recognition means national chess squads will be able to use NSC sporting facilities for training without charge, while competition and international-event use will remain subject to applicable fees, according to SICF.
More importantly, the registration opens the door for chess to become more closely integrated into the country’s high-performance system.
SICF can now access the NSC High Performance Centre and nominate senior and age-group squads, covering the men’s and women’s senior teams as well as boys’ and girls’ age-group squads.
For a sport that relies heavily on structured player development, the opportunity can provide a more organised pathway for promising players to progress from schools and grassroots competitions into national representation.
The federation will also be able to seek NSC assistance to strengthen its governance, administration and management systems and will be eligible to apply for grants to support approved chess development programmes and activities.
SICF said the development will provide a stronger foundation for players to progress through the sport from grassroots and schools to national, regional and international competition.
The federation’s president Simon Chottu acknowledged the NSC Board, management and staff for recognising SICF and supporting the development of chess as a mind sport in Solomon Islands.
“This is only the beginning,” the federation said, signalling its intention to use the new recognition as a platform for further development.
The move comes as SICF continues efforts to broaden chess participation and strengthen the sport’s presence in Solomon Islands, particularly through player development and wider community engagement.
With formal NSC recognition now secured, the challenge for the federation will be to turn the newly opened opportunities into practical programmes that can produce more players, stronger national squads and a sustainable pathway for chess development.
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Junior Kurukuru Step Up Preparations
for 2026 Youth Olympics
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
The Solomon Islands National U-17 Futsal Team, the Junior Kurukuru, are stepping up preparations ahead of the 2026 Youth Olympics, scheduled for November 1–12 in Dakar, Senegal.
This will be the second time Solomon Islands will compete in the Youth Olympics futsal competition, following their debut in 2018.
Speaking to Star Sports, head coach Dickson Kadau said preparations have been progressing well, with the squad trimmed to 14 players this week and a final 10-man squad expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
“We have been in intense preparations for the past two months, and I can see that the combinations and teamwork are connecting well between the players,” he said.
“According to the organisers, we will be travelling with a total of 10 players, plus the coach and team manager.
“Currently, we have 14 players and will be cutting it down to the final 10 players, hopefully by the end of this week.”
The Junior Kurukuru are currently training three days a week, with most players selected from local youth leagues, while a few have experience in the SIFF Super Futsal League.
The side have been drawn in a tough Group B alongside Paraguay, Morocco and Portugal, but Kadau said the team is looking forward to the challenge.
“It is a very tough pool, and they will have bigger boys compared to us, but we are excited about the challenge and ready to give our best,” he added.
Kadau also revealed that the team is hoping to hold a training camp in Australia ahead of the competition.
“We are still waiting for confirmation on whether we will be having a few friendlies in October. We are planning for mid-October, which will really help the boys get exposure,” he said.
The coach said there are still several key areas that need improvement, but believes there is enough time to address them before the team heads to Dakar.
The Junior Kurukuru will kick off their campaign against Paraguay on November 1 at the Complexe Iba Mar Diop, before facing European giants Portugal a few days later.
They will conclude their group-stage campaign against Morocco on November 7 at the Dakar Arena.
In the women's competition, Fiji will represent the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) and will make their debut in the futsal competition.
//End//
Junior Kurukuru Step Up Preparations
for 2026 Youth Olympics
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
所罗门群岛国家U-17五人制足球队青少年Kurukuru正在为定于11月1日至12日在塞内加尔达喀尔举行的2026年青年奥运会加紧准备。
这是所罗门群岛第二次参加青年奥运会的五人制足球比赛,此前他们在2018年首次亮相。
主教练迪克森·卡达乌在接受Star Sports采访时表示,准备工作进展顺利,本周球队人数已缩减至14名球员,预计将在接下来的几周内确认最终的10人名单。
“我们在过去两个月进行了紧张的准备,我可以看到球员之间的配合和团队合作非常默契,”他说。
“根据组织者的说法,我们将带着总共10名球员出征,还有教练和队经理。
“目前,我们有14名球员,预计将在本周末前削减至最终的10名球员。”
青少年Kurukuru目前每周训练三天,大部分球员来自当地青年联赛,少数球员在所罗门群岛足球联合会超级五人制联赛中有过经验。
该队被分在了与巴拉圭、摩洛哥和葡萄牙同组的艰难B组,但卡达乌表示球队期待这一挑战。
“这是一个非常艰难的小组,他们的身体素质会比我们强,但我们对这个挑战感到兴奋,并准备全力以赴,”他补充道。
卡达乌还透露,球队希望在比赛前在澳大利亚举行一次训练营。
“我们仍在等待确认是否会在10月进行几场友谊赛。我们计划在10月中旬进行,这将真正帮助球员们获得锻炼机会,”他说。
教练表示,仍有几个关键领域需要改进,但相信在球队前往达喀尔之前还有足够的时间来解决这些问题。
青少年Kurukuru将在11月1日于Complexe Iba Mar Diop迎战巴拉圭,几天后将面对欧洲强队葡萄牙。
他们将在11月7日于达喀尔竞技场结束小组赛,对阵摩洛哥。
在女子比赛中,斐济将代表大洋洲足球联合会(OFC)首次参加五人制足球比赛。
//结束//
Building athletics early
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands is looking to strengthen the foundation of its athletics development by equipping teachers and coaches with new skills to introduce children to the sport at an early age.
The move is being supported through the World Athletics Kids’ Athletics Train the Trainer course currently underway at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport (SINIS), according to information released by the National Sports Council (NSC) yesterday.
The three-day regional course brought together teachers, coaches and athletics personnel from Solomon Islands, New Zealand, Australia, Norfolk Island, Vanuatu and Tonga to learn practical approaches to grassroots athletics development.
World Athletics Kids’ Athletics facilitator and Coaches Education Certification System lecturer Albert Miller said the programme aims to create a stronger foundation for children before they progress into more specialised athletic activities.
“It’s basically teaching kids how to walk before they can run or jump or throw,” Miller said.
He said the initiative was developed by World Athletics as a global programme to increase participation and introduce children to movement and athletics through age-appropriate activities.
For Solomon Islands, the programme could provide Athletics Solomons and local schools with another avenue to attract children to athletics while developing their basic physical skills.
Athletics Solomons president Michael Kuali said the training is important in helping the federation take athletics to children at an earlier stage.
“We want to drive and get more people interested in athletics as early as possible,” Kuali said.
He also encouraged participants to use the knowledge gained from the training in their own schools and communities to help build a stronger grassroots base for the sport.
A notable part of the training has been its focus on inclusion, with participants also learning ways to involve children with disabilities in sporting activities.
Andrew Feratelia of Honiara Integrated Community High School said the training had helped broaden his understanding of how schools can make sports more accessible.
“There are times when we overlook them, especially in schools,” Feratelia said, adding that the workshop had given him a better understanding of how children with disabilities could be included in activities.
For Burns Creek Adventist Primary School teacher Jenny Tahea, the workshop has also provided practical ideas that can be taken back into the classroom.
Tahea said she found the warm-up and preparation activities particularly useful, noting that some of the approaches differed from traditional methods used before other sporting activities.
The course moves into its practical phase tomorrow, with participants travelling to Burns Creek Adventist Primary School for a three-hour Kids’ Athletics session before returning to SINIS for the conclusion of the training.
The programme targets children aged four to 14 and places emphasis on fundamental movement, fun and inclusive participation.
The broader objective is to establish an early pathway into athletics by helping children develop confidence, coordination and basic movement skills before moving into more specialised events.
For Solomon Islands, the training presents an opportunity to strengthen the link between schools, communities and athletics development while helping create a wider base of young participants for the sport in the years ahead.
Photo credit: NSC
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HCDA opens doors to old and new teams for 2026 league
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Honiara City Darts Association (HCDA) is calling on both established and new darts clubs and teams to join its 2026 league as registration gathers pace ahead of the August 28 deadline.
HCDA opened registrations last Friday, August 14, inviting teams to compete across its Premier Division, Division One and Corporate Division.
The association said the invitation is open to “old and new” darts clubs and teams, providing an opportunity for established sides, developing players, workplace teams and social groups to become part of an organised league competition.
The Premier Division will remain the top tier of competition, while Division One will provide a pathway for developing and aspiring teams, with promotion and relegation opportunities forming part of the league structure.
The Corporate Division, meanwhile, is aimed at workplace, business and social teams looking to participate in a competitive but inclusive environment.
HCDA is also encouraging interested teams to register early, with registration forms required by Friday, August 28.
The association said the league will provide structured weekly competition while creating opportunities for players of different skill levels to compete and improve.
For HCDA, the push to attract both existing and new teams is part of its effort to strengthen the darts community in Honiara and provide more opportunities for participation.
Interested clubs and teams can obtain registration information through HCDA President Eldine Devesi on 7750233, Vice President Peni Mosese on 7779145, or Treasurer Deki Lilo on 7626706.
With registration now open, attention turns to how many teams will take up the invitation before the August 28 deadline and help shape this year’s HCDA league.
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Rafa Lea’i’s hat-trick sends Central Coast FC into historic OFC Champions League final after thrilling 3-2 extra-time win over Galaxy FC
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Rafa Lea’i struck a dramatic 117th-minute winner as Central Coast FC edged Galaxy FC 3-2 after extra time yesterday to reach the OFC Men’s Champions League final in one of the tournament’s most thrilling semi-finals.
The Solomon Islands forward completed a stunning hat-trick at 4R Stadium Govind Park in Ba, Fiji, sending Central Coast into their first-ever continental final after a pulsating encounter against their Melanesian rivals.
OFC Media, in its post-match report issued yesterday, described the semi-final as a “heart-stopping” and “pulsating” contest, with Central Coast eventually surviving Galaxy’s second-half comeback before Lea’i delivered the decisive blow in extra time.
Central Coast made the perfect start, taking the lead in the 15th minute after Hudyn Irodao’s effort came back off the crossbar before Bobby Leslie’s header was blocked, allowing Lea’i to react quickest and fire home.
Lea’i then doubled the advantage just before half-time, combining with Leslie and Barrie Limoki on a swift counter-attack before confidently drilling his second past Galaxy goalkeeper Michael Laulae.
Central Coast went into the break 2-0 ahead and appeared firmly in control.
But Galaxy, the tournament’s highest-scoring side, responded strongly after the interval.
Their Brazilian marksman Willian Dos Santos Medina, who had scored nine goals before the semi-final, finally found a way through in the 69th minute before drawing Galaxy level eight minutes later with his second of the evening.
The equaliser forced the contest into an additional 30 minutes, with both sides creating opportunities as fatigue began to set in.
Just when the match appeared destined for penalties, Lea’i struck again.
With only three minutes remaining, substitute Fordney Junior capitalised on a defensive mistake and supplied Lea’i, who unleashed a powerful finish high into the net to complete his treble and send Central Coast into the final.
The victory also underlined Central Coast’s defensive effort in limiting Medina for long periods before the Galaxy striker eventually found his range.
The semi-final carried an added Melanesian flavour, with Central Coast coached by Solomon Islands national Jacob Moli and Galaxy led by former Solomon Islands international Batram Suri.
But it was Moli’s side that prevailed in a contest that swung dramatically from a comfortable Central Coast lead to a Galaxy comeback before Lea’i settled the tie.
Central Coast will now face defending champions Auckland City FC in Saturday’s final, with the Solomon Islands side moving within one victory of claiming Oceania’s biggest club football prize.
Central Coast FC previously reached the OFC Champions League semi-finals on their competition debut in 2023. Their return to the final four this year has now gone a step further, with Lea’i’s treble securing the club a historic first appearance in the continental final.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
In Hamilton, New Zealand
BELLONA Rugby Union Association (BRUA) is preparing to relaunch rugby activities on the island next month following its Annual General Meeting on 31 July at Suani Accommodation in Bellona.
Representatives from seven affiliated clubs attended the meeting, where a new executive committee was elected to lead the association for the next four years.
Newly elected president Nigel Soaika told SunSPORTS that the committee is planning a competition next month as part of a wider push to revive rugby in Bellona.
Soaika said BRUA also intends to work with school leaders and sports masters to introduce tag rugby in schools before launching an Under-16 competition.
“We thank every rugby club for their trust and for giving us the privilege to serve BRUA over the next four years,” Soaika said.
BRUA has also received a timely boost from the East Rennell Rugby Union Association (ERRUA), which donated five rugby balls to support the planned programme.
Soaika thanked ERRUA president Newton Moana for the donation and acknowledged outgoing BRUA president Nick Hatigeva, who had led the association since 2021.
The new BRUA executive committee is:
President: Nigel Soaika
Vice-president: Frank Paikea
Secretary: Sharon Tepai
Treasurer: Walter Baiabe
Women’s representative: Elisa Soaika
Ordinary members: Darley Tesu’Atai, Nick Na’amoana and Leslie Puia.
Photo: Supplied
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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
In Hamilton, NZ
FOOTBALLERS from Guadalcanal Province who are currently involved in any Solomon Islands Football Federation active leagues will not be eligible to play in next month’s Guadalcanal Cup (G-Cup) 2026 in Honiara.
The Guadalcanal Cup Championship 2026 is scheduled to kick off on Monday, 21 September, with team registration now open at a fee of $3,500 per team.
The tournament will bring together teams representing the province’s eight constituencies.
Guadalcanal Football Association Secretary Joshua Kera told SunSPORTS that each team must register 23 players, including three goalkeepers, and five team officials, including a team manager, head coach, assistant coach and other relevant officials.
Kera said players must either be from the Guadalcanal constituency they intend to represent or have lived there for at least the past six months.
“Players currently residing in Honiara or participating in HFA or other PFA competitions will be considered outside the GFA jurisdiction and are not eligible,” Kera said.
“Players from Guadalcanal or other provinces who participated in previous TSL seasons may participate, provided they do not have an active registration with a current S-League club and meet the other eligibility requirements,” he said.
Kera confirmed that each team may register a maximum of five former TSL players, a measure aimed at creating more opportunities for young and emerging players from the eight constituencies.
“Players who are currently registered and participating with clubs in the current S-League season are not eligible to take part in the Guadalcanal Cup Championship 2026.
“Players currently participating in SIFF active competitions, including futsal, are also not eligible, in accordance with the applicable league regulations,” he said.
Kera urges teams to carefully check the eligibility of their players before submitting final registrations.
“Any players or team officials who are suspended or serving a ban imposed by SIFF from previous competitions are not eligible to participate in the G-Cup Championship 2026,” he said.
He also encourages teams to appoint coaches who hold MA Coaching certificates or OFC coaching certificates to manage their sides.
Meanwhile, this year’s tournament will introduce a women’s division, giving female footballers from across Guadalcanal the chance to represent their constituencies and showcase their talent.
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BY ELTON LONARATHA JNR
In Hamilton, NZ
BUALA Football Academy (BFA) has received recognition from the Solomon Islands Football Federation, with the national body donating eight soccer balls to support the academy’s grassroots football development programme.
The academy operates under Buala Football Club (BFC), one of the longest-established and most decorated football clubs in Buala, Isabel Province.
Founder, technical director and coach Ataban Sizah thanked SIFF’s youth development officer for acknowledging the work being done to develop young footballers in the province.
Sizah said the recognition follows a recent visit to Honiara by an Isabel sports delegation that included the provincial sports coordinator, the deputy premier and the Isabel Football Association vice-president.
“They highlighted my academy programme, and SIFF decided to support us with eight soccer balls.
“The academy is very thankful for the support. It shows we are on the right pathway in developing players from a very early age.
“We have a strategic plan to start producing quality players for Isabel Frigates and, in the future, the Solomon Islands national teams,” he said.
Sizah said Buala Football Academy looks forward to working with SIFF to achieve its goals of identifying and developing football talent from rural communities.
Photo: Supplied
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Rafa Lea’i scores a hat-trick as Central Coast FC beats Galaxy FC 3-2 in extra time to reach the OFC Champions League Final. A hat-trick from Rafa Lea’i sent Central Coast FC into the OFC Champions League Final with a heart-stopping, pulsating 3-2 extra-time victory over Galaxy FC in a semi-final match for the ages [...]
The post LEA’I HAT-TRICK SENDS CENTRAL COAST FC TO FINAL appeared first on Tavuli News (Solomon Islands) .
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
A NEW futsal competition in Henderson is using the sport not only to bring young people together, but also as a platform for character building, community development and faith.
Established in April this year, the Kaliki Futsal League has already grown to 21 teams, with matches played every Saturday at the organisers’ family property along Bloody Ridge Road.
Kaliki Futsal League chairperson Sharon Hou said the competition was established with a clear purpose of reaching young people through sport.
“Kaliki Futsal League was established earlier this year in April 2026 with the main objective of bringing youths from surrounding communities to know Jesus through futsal,” Hou said.
The league operates on a round-robin format, with a committee led by Hou organising fixtures and managing regular updates through its Facebook page, which serves as the main communication platform.
But beyond competition, Hou believes the league can play a wider role in the lives of participating youths.
She said the competition provides young people from Kaliki and surrounding communities with a space to develop character and a sense of belonging.
“I believe when we create space for our youth to have a sense of belonging they build trust and respect of that space,” Hou said.
She added that this can contribute to the mental and emotional growth of young participants, with wider social and community benefits.
The fledgling competition has also received support from key football stakeholders.
Sports and Leadership Training (SALT) helped kick-start the competition through guidance and a donation of footballs, while the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has provided technical training.
Hou said SIFF support included a MA Youth Futsal Coaching Workshop in August 2025 and Futsal Referee Courses in March and July this year.
“We are immensely grateful for their support and guidance over the past two years in continuous preparation toward the league,” she said.
The organisers now want to build on that foundation.
Hou said the league plans to run annually, introduce other categories and sports, and provide additional training and workshops for youths.
They also hope to see more churches become involved in sporting programmes while developing players and eventually forming a team to represent Kaliki.
“Our vision is for our youth to come to know God through futsal/sport,” Hou said.
Based in Henderson, the Kaliki Futsal League runs every Saturday and has attracted 21 teams since its establishment in April 2026. Organisers see futsal as more than competition, using sport to create belonging, develop young people and strengthen community connections.
Photo credit: Kaliki Futsal League File
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Central Coast FC faces Galaxy FC tomorrow night with historic OFC final spot at stake
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Solomon Islands representative Central Coast FC will face Vanuatu’s Galaxy FC tomorrow night in a high-stakes OFC Men’s Champions League semi-final, with a place in Saturday’s grand final at stake.
The two Melanesian sides will meet at 7pm at 4R Stadium Govind Park in Ba, Fiji, with Central Coast chasing a historic first appearance in the continental final.
OFC Media, in a media release issued yesterday, confirmed that defending champions Auckland City FC, hosts Rewa FC, Galaxy FC and Central Coast FC are the four clubs remaining in contention for the 2026 title.
Central Coast advanced to the semi-finals after finishing second in Group A and have grown stronger as the tournament progresses.
Head coach Jacob Moli had earlier admitted that his side was undercooked heading into the competition, but their match fitness has improved and the team has produced some impressive football in Fiji.
Their squad has also been strengthened by eight players with OFC Pro League experience, providing valuable regional experience ahead of the knockout stage.
Standing in their way is a Galaxy side that has impressed throughout the tournament.
The Vanuatu champions topped Group B with three wins, with Brazilian striker Willian Dos Santos Medina emerging as one of the competition’s standout players after scoring three consecutive hat-tricks.
His combination with fellow Brazilian Roberson Dos Santos Ribeiro has helped Galaxy develop one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacks.
The semi-final will also carry a strong Solomon Islands connection, with former Solomon Islands international Batram Suri coaching Galaxy, while Solomon Islanders Michael Laulae and Aengari Gagame are also part of the squad.
“It will be special playing against a club from my country. Business is business though, and I coach Galaxy, so I am Vanuatuan now,” Suri said.
Moli, meanwhile, said Central Coast must respect their opponents and prepare carefully for the crucial encounter.
“We respect Galaxy FC. They have been one of the teams to watch at this tournament and impressed during the group stage,” Moli said.
“We have to go back to the training ground and make sure we prepare well for the semi-final.”
Tomorrow’s match will also decide which Melanesian football nation ends a lengthy wait for a place in the final.
OFC Media noted that it has been 12 years since a Vanuatu club last reached the final, while Solomon Islands have waited 17 years since their last club appearance in the decider.
Central Coast previously reached the semi-finals on their OFC Men’s Champions League debut in 2023, but exited at the group stage on home soil last year.
The first semi-final tomorrow sees 13-time champions Auckland City FC take on hosts Rewa FC at 3pm, before Central Coast and Galaxy meet at 7pm.
The two winners will meet in Saturday’s final for the 24th OFC Men’s Champions League title.
Both semi-finals and the final will be available live and free on FIFA+ via DAZN.
The OFC Men’s Champions League is Oceania’s premier club football competition, bringing together the region’s top domestic champions.
Central Coast FC are carrying Solomon Islands’ hopes into the final four in Fiji, with victory over Galaxy tomorrow night potentially sending the club into its first-ever continental final.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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Eight constituencies to compete as association tightens player eligibility
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
The Guadalcanal Football Association (GFA) has moved to strengthen the grassroots focus of its 2026 Guadalcanal Cup Championship, with strict player eligibility rules set to shape the competition when it kicks off next month.
The championship is proposed to begin on September 21 in Honiara, with teams representing Guadalcanal’s eight constituencies expected to take part.
The GFA Executive announced the competition details through an update shared on its official Facebook page, outlining registration requirements and eligibility regulations for players and team officials.
Under the rules, each constituency team must register a squad of 23 players, including three goalkeepers, alongside five team officials.
A key restriction is that each team will be allowed a maximum of five former TSL players, while players currently registered with S-League clubs will not be eligible.
Players currently participating in active SIFF competitions, including futsal, are also excluded under the regulations.
“Players who are currently registered and participating with clubs in the current S-League season are not eligible to participate in the Guadalcanal Cup Championship 2026,” the GFA said.
The association said the restriction on former TSL players is intended to create greater opportunities for young and emerging footballers from the eight constituencies.
Players must also be from, or have resided within the constituency they represent for at least six months. Those currently residing in Honiara or participating in HFA or other provincial football association competitions are considered outside GFA jurisdiction.
The GFA has also ruled out players and team officials serving suspensions or bans from previous SIFF competitions.
Each team must pay a SBD$3,500 registration fee, with the full amount required at least two weeks before the proposed commencement date.
The association is also encouraging teams to appoint coaches holding MA or OFC coaching certificates.
The official venue and further championship details are expected to be announced by GFA in the coming weeks.
The 2026 Guadalcanal Cup will bring together the eight Guadalcanal constituencies in what the association hopes will provide a platform for locally based and emerging players to compete at constituency level.
Photo credit: GFA File
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BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Rove Rugby has closed team registration for its much-anticipated 6-Touch Competition – GENESIS, with attention now turning to Saturday’s community rugby event.
August 17 was set as the last day for team registration, unless otherwise notified, ahead of Saturday’s opening competition on August 22.
The development follows a series of promotional updates from Rove Rugby as it prepares to stage GENESIS as more than just a rugby competition, with organisers promising a relaxed and family-friendly game-day atmosphere.
In its latest update, Rove Rugby highlighted music, community interaction, an enjoyable atmosphere and exciting finals as some of the features planned for the event.
The initiative is part of Rove Rugby’s broader push to develop six-touch rugby as a community activity, bringing together players and supporters in an environment that combines competition with social interaction.
GENESIS will serve as the first competition in Rove Rugby’s 2026 six-touch series, with the organisation planning to build on the concept through further competitions during the year.
With registration now closed, the focus shifts to the participating teams and the final preparations ahead of Saturday’s event.
The GENESIS competition represents the next step in Rove Rugby’s development of six-touch rugby, following its earlier in-house competition and its move this year to open the concept to the wider community.
Photo credit: Rove Rugby File
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HCDA 2026 League to Feature Three Divisions as Registration OpensBy TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR Star Sports, HoniaraThe Honiara City Darts Association (HCDA) is preparing for another exciting league season, with registration now open for clubs, corporate teams and darts enthusiasts ahead of the August 28 deadline.Speaking to Star Sports, HCDA President Eldine Devesi said this year’s competition will feature three divisions, namely the Premier Division, Division One and the Corporate Division.“We are introducing three tiers this season, with the Premier Division as the top tier for strong and established teams, while Division One will be for new, developing and aspiring teams,” he said.Devesi said promotion and relegation opportunities will also be introduced for the top and bottom teams in the Premier Division and Division One, giving teams the chance to move up or down based on their performance.The Corporate Division is aimed mainly at workplace, business and social teams looking to take part in an organised but fun and inclusive competition.“Whether you are an established club, a workplace team, or a group of friends looking for a new challenge, now is the time to enter your team and be part of Honiara’s growing darts community,” Devesi said.The league is proposed to begin one week after registration closes on August 28, giving the association time to finalise the participating teams and competition structure.He added that the association has already received interest from a number of clubs and may consider extending the registration deadline depending on the number of teams registered.Registration fees are $3,000 for the Premier Division, $2,500 for Division One and $2,500 for the Corporate Division.Devesi also revealed that HCDA is seeking sponsors for the league and has called on local businesses and other organisations interested in supporting the competition to get in touch with the association.Meanwhile, last year’s HCDA Darts League featured 12 teams, with Herbs crowned champions and taking home the $10,000 grand prize.//End//Photo caption: Herbs players celebrate after winning last year's HCDA Darts League title.
HCDA 2026 League to Feature Three Divisions as Registration OpensBy TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR Star Sports, Honiara霍尼亚拉市飞镖协会(HCDA)正在为另一个激动人心的联赛赛季做准备,注册现已开放,俱乐部、企业团队和飞镖爱好者可以在8月28日截止日期之前报名参加。HCDA主席埃尔丁·德维西(Eldine Devesi)在接受《星际体育》采访时表示,今年的比赛将设立三个级别,即顶级联赛、第一联赛和企业联赛。“我们在本赛季引入了三个级别,顶级联赛是强大和成熟团队的最高级别,而第一联赛则适合新兴、发展和有抱负的团队,”他说。德维西表示,顶级联赛和第一联赛的顶尖和底部团队也将引入升降级机会,给予团队根据表现上下浮动的机会。企业联赛主要面向希望参与有组织但有趣和包容性竞争的工作场所、商业和社交团队。“无论你是一个成熟的俱乐部、一个工作场所团队,还是一群寻找新挑战的朋友,现在是时候报名参加你的团队,成为霍尼亚拉飞镖社区的一部分,”德维西说。该联赛计划在8月28日注册截止后一周开始,给协会留出时间来最终确定参与团队和比赛结构。他补充说,协会已经收到了一些俱乐部的兴趣,并可能根据注册团队的数量考虑延长注册截止日期。注册费用为顶级联赛3000美元,第一联赛和企业联赛各2500美元。德维西还透露,HCDA正在寻求联赛赞助商,并呼吁当地企业和其他有意支持比赛的组织与协会联系。与此同时,去年的HCDA飞镖联赛有12支球队,Herbs获得冠军并赢得了1万美元的大奖。//End//Photo caption: Herbs players celebrate after winning last year's HCDA Darts League title.
Solomon Islands side beats AS Tiga Sport 2-0 to set up semi-final clash with Galaxy FC
BY NED GAGAHE
CENTRAL Coast FC have booked their place in the semi-finals of the OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 after defeating AS Tiga Sport 2-0 in a crucial group-stage match.
The Solomon Islands champions produced a disciplined performance to eliminate the New Caledonian side and set up a semi-final meeting with Group B winners Galaxy FC of Vanuatu.
Central Coast needed only a draw to progress, while AS Tiga had to win to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
The Solomon Islands side started strongly and created several chances inside the opening 10 minutes but failed to find the breakthrough.
That changed in the 15th minute when captain Javin Wae stepped up for a free-kick and curled a low effort into the bottom-right corner to put Central Coast ahead.
The goal settled Central Coast, with Bobby Leslie and Rafa Lea’i continuing to cause problems for the AS Tiga defence with their movement and combination play.
AS Tiga searched for an equaliser but struggled to test Central Coast goalkeeper Erick Wanega.
The New Caledonian side made four substitutions early in the second half as coach Leo Lopez looked for an attacking spark.
Knowing they needed at least two goals, AS Tiga pushed more players forward, leaving spaces for Central Coast to exploit.
Lea’i came close to doubling the lead after racing onto a pass from Leslie, but AS Tiga goalkeeper Thomas Schmidt produced an outstanding save to keep his side in the contest.
Central Coast eventually sealed the victory in the 72nd minute.
Lea’i delivered a dangerous corner towards the back post, where Marlon Tahioa rose highest and headed the ball down into the bottom-left corner to make it 2-0.
The victory sends Central Coast back into the OFC Champions League semi-finals for the first time since 2022.
They will now face Galaxy FC of Vanuatu for a place in the final, while AS Tiga Sport’s campaign ends at the group stage.
Photo credit: OFC Media via Phototek
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所罗门群岛队以2-0战胜AS Tiga Sport,晋级与Galaxy FC的半决赛
作者:NED GAGAHE
中央海岸足球俱乐部在2026年OFC男子冠军联赛小组赛中以2-0战胜AS Tiga Sport,成功晋级半决赛。
所罗门群岛冠军展现出严谨的表现,淘汰了新喀里多尼亚队,并与瓦努阿图的B组冠军Galaxy FC进行半决赛对决。
中央海岸只需一场平局即可晋级,而AS Tiga必须获胜才能保留半决赛的希望。
所罗门群岛队开局强势,在前10分钟内创造了多个机会,但未能打破僵局。
在第15分钟,队长Javin Wae主罚任意球,低射入右下角,为中央海岸首开纪录。
进球让中央海岸稳定了局势,Bobby Leslie和Rafa Lea’i继续通过灵活的跑动和配合给AS Tiga的防线制造麻烦。
AS Tiga寻求扳平,但难以考验中央海岸门将Erick Wanega。
新喀里多尼亚队在下半场早些时候进行了四次换人,教练Leo Lopez希望寻找进攻火花。
AS Tiga知道需要至少两个进球,因而更多球员前压,给中央海岸留下了可乘之机。
Lea’i在接到Leslie的传球后接近扩大领先优势,但AS Tiga门将Thomas Schmidt做出了精彩扑救,保住了球队的希望。
中央海岸最终在第72分钟锁定胜局。
Lea’i开出一个危险的角球,Marlon Tahioa高高跃起,将球顶入左下角,比分变为2-0。
这场胜利使中央海岸时隔2022年再次晋级OFC冠军联赛半决赛。
他们将与瓦努阿图的Galaxy FC争夺决赛名额,而AS Tiga Sport的征程则在小组赛阶段结束。
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Pegi still tops golden boot raceBy FLOYD TERRY JNRSolomon Star, HoniaraSolomon Islands national women’s team forward and Henderson Eels scoring machine Ileen Pegi continues to lead the Solrais Women’s Premier League (SWPL) Golden Boot race after Round 16.Pegi has been in prolific form this season, sitting comfortably at the top of the scoring charts with 38 goals.The Henderson Eels forward holds an 11-goal advantage over her closest challenger, Papua New Guinea international and Frigates United striker Keren Kalapai, who has 26 goals.Geniagu United’s Gracester Kini is close behind on 25 goals, while Haura FC forward Jeremie Oliver occupies fourth place with 15 goals. Sandy Aniholland rounds out the top five with 14 goals.Speaking to Star Sport on Friday, Pegi said she was happy to maintain her position at the top but credited her teammates for helping her reach the milestone.“I am very happy to still maintain the lead at the top of the Golden Boot race,” Pegi said.She said playing alongside talented teammates at Henderson Eels had played an important role in her scoring form.“Without my teammates, I would not be able to make it to the top of the Golden Boot race,” she said.Pegi also thanked God, her coach, team management and teammates for their support throughout the season, while acknowledging the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF), Solrais and all eight competing clubs for making the competition possible.However, despite her 12-goal lead at the top, Pegi said she was not taking the Golden Boot for granted.“For me, this race is not over yet. The top five scorers are still competing for the Golden Boot and we have five more games to go before the league completes, so there is still time for anything to happen,” she said.Pegi said the quality of the players chasing her means she must continue working hard in the remaining matches.“Competing with the best strikers like Keren Kalapai, Gracester Kini, Jeremie Oliver and Sandy Aniholland, who are closing in from behind, I cannot feel secure enough yet in this race.“I need to work even harder in our remaining games and score more goals,” she added.The Henderson Eels forward also congratulated the four players chasing her and wished them well for the remaining matches.With five rounds remaining, Pegi remains the player to beat, but the Golden Boot race is far from over.
Pegi still tops golden boot raceBy FLOYD TERRY JNRSolomon Star, Honiara所罗门群岛国家女子足球队前锋、亨德森鳗鱼队的得分机器伊琳·佩吉(Ileen Pegi)在第16轮后继续领先Solrais女子超级联赛(SWPL)金靴争夺战。佩吉本赛季状态火热,稳居得分榜首位,进球数达到38个。亨德森鳗鱼队的前锋比她的最近竞争对手、巴布亚新几内亚国脚及弗里盖特联合队前锋凯伦·卡拉派(Keren Kalapai)多出11个进球,后者的进球数为26个。格尼亚古联合队的格雷斯特·基尼(Gracester Kini)紧随其后,进球数为25个,而哈乌拉足球俱乐部的前锋杰里米·奥利弗(Jeremie Oliver)以15个进球位居第四。桑迪·阿尼霍兰(Sandy Aniholland)以14个进球排在前五名之内。佩吉在周五接受《星报体育》采访时表示,她很高兴能够保持领先地位,但将这一成就归功于队友的帮助。“我非常高兴能够继续在金靴争夺战中保持领先,”佩吉说。她表示,与亨德森鳗鱼队的优秀队友一起比赛在她的得分状态中发挥了重要作用。“如果没有我的队友,我无法登顶金靴争夺战,”她说。佩吉还感谢上帝、教练、球队管理层和队友在整个赛季中的支持,同时也感谢所罗门群岛足球协会(SIFF)、Solrais以及所有八支参赛俱乐部,使得这项比赛得以进行。然而,尽管她在榜首领先12个进球,佩吉表示她并没有把金靴视为囊中之物。“对我来说,这场比赛还没有结束。前五名得分手仍在争夺金靴,我们还有五场比赛要打,所以仍然有时间发生任何事情,”她说。佩吉表示,追赶她的球员质量意味着她必须在剩下的比赛中继续努力。“与凯伦·卡拉派、格雷斯特·基尼、杰里米·奥利弗和桑迪·阿尼霍兰等优秀前锋竞争,我还不能在这场比赛中感到安全。“我需要在剩下的比赛中更加努力,进更多的球,”她补充道。亨德森鳗鱼队的前锋还祝贺追赶她的四名球员,并祝他们在剩下的比赛中好运。随着剩余五轮的进行,佩吉仍然是最值得被击败的球员,但金靴争夺战远未结束。
BY JOY OFASIA
Makirians living in Ayr and Townsville, North Queensland, Australia, came together on Sunday, August 9, to celebrate the 43rd Second Appointed Day of Makira-Ulawa Province.
The celebration brought together seasonal workers and invited friends for a day of unity, culture, fellowship and remembrance, showing that Makirians continue to maintain their connection to their province despite being far from home.
The program included a range of cultural activities, including face painting, blindfold games and custom storytelling aimed at keeping Makira kastom and traditions alive among the community.
The official program also featured speeches highlighting the significance of the Second Appointed Day, reflecting on Makira-Ulawa Province’s 43 years and sharing aspects of its history.
The celebration concluded with fellowship over shared food and the cutting of a cake to mark the province’s 43rd Second Appointed Day.
In his remarks, community leader Timothy Magusi thanked the leaders, members and friends who attended and supported the celebration.
Mr Magusi highlighted the importance of marking the provincial day for Makirians living abroad and encouraged seasonal workers to be role models while participating in the Seasonal Worker Program.
He said the opportunity to work abroad should be valued because it enables workers to support their families back home and improve their living standards.
“We must value this opportunity because in return our families back home benefit, and it helps improve our standards of living when life demands are high,” Mr Magusi said.
This year’s celebration marked the third time Makira-Ulawa Day has been celebrated by the Makira community in Ayr and Townsville.
The Makira community expressed its appreciation to everyone who attended and supported the celebration, saying the event provided an opportunity to come together as one family and keep their culture and identity alive while living abroad.
The community also extended its best wishes to Makira-Ulawa Province on its 43rd Second Appointed Day.
The Commonwealth Games in Glasgow marked an important milestone for several Solomon Islands athletes, including 25-year-old boxer Osward Talaka from Western Province.
After making his international debut, Talaka reflects on his journey to Glasgow, his experience at the Games, and what the opportunity means for his growth and development in boxing.
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Government workers turn to sport to stay active, healthy and connected
BY RICHARD MENANOPO
Government workers are being encouraged to step away from their desks and take part in sport as the Inter-Ministry Healthy Lifestyle Games continue to promote healthier lifestyles across the public service.
Technical Committee member responsible for volleyball, Andrew Leitaka, said participation in the games has been strong, with workers embracing the opportunity to exercise and socialise with colleagues from other ministries.
“People really look forward to game days. It gets workers away from sitting at their desks all day and encourages regular physical activity,” Leitaka said.
The games, which began on June 12, involves 26 ministries competing across seven sporting codes, with women’s volleyball alone attracting more than 30 teams.
Leitaka said the revival of the games by the Ministry of Health had received positive feedback from government workers, particularly amid growing concerns over non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
“These games encourage government workers to get out of their offices, stay active, and improve their overall health and well-being,” he said.
For Prime Minister’s Office Senior Procurement Officer and volleyball player, Veronica Kealau, the programme provides a welcome break from office work while creating opportunities to build relationships across government.
“We work in the office from the morning until 3:00 PM, and then from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM, I come out to play,” Kealau said.
Kealau, who plays both volleyball and netball, said the games allow workers to exercise while strengthening connections with colleagues whose work often overlaps across ministries.
“Beyond the health benefits, it allows us to network with staff from other ministries. Our work is often interconnected, so meeting people on the court builds better working relationships across government departments,” she said.
She said the need for such activities was reinforced by NCD health screenings conducted across ministries earlier this year.
“Sitting at a desk all day creates an unhealthy workforce. A healthy workforce leads to better work outcomes in our offices,” Kealau said.
Despite limited training time and facilities, she said workers remained committed to participating.
“Our goal is to win every match, but if we lose, that’s okay too. As long as we get out here, enjoy ourselves, and take part in the program, we are happy,” she said.
The Inter-Ministry Healthy Lifestyle Games were revived this year after previously being held and later suspended, giving government employees an opportunity to stay active, build workplace relationships and promote healthier lifestyles through sport.
Photo credit: Richard Menanopo
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