Solomon Islands makes history hosting the 2026 West Pacific Junior Tennis Championships in Honiara with U12, U14 and U16 players
Honiara, Solomon Islands – For the first time, the Solomon Islands will host the West Pacific Junior Tennis Championships from 26–30 January 2026, welcoming Under-12, Under-14 and Under-16 players from Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, alongside the host nation.
The West Pacific Junior Tennis Championships is a premier regional competition focused on developing junior tennis talent, promoting high-level competitive play, and strengthening sporting connections across the Pacific. Importantly, the championships also serve as qualifying events for the Pacific Oceania Junior Championships (POJC), providing young athletes with a clear and structured pathway to higher levels of regional competition.
In preparation for the championships, the Solomon Islands junior team have trained intensively over the past months, undertaking specific structured programmes. The Solomon Islands Tennis Federation coaches have been working closely with players to build confidence, discipline, and resilience ahead of the five-day event.
“We’ve seen strong improvement in their confidence and game awareness, and they are ready to compete at this regional level,” Head Coach, Junior Benjamin said.
“Hosting this championship is a major opportunity for our young athletes. Playing at home allows them to gain valuable international experience while feeling supported by family and the local tennis community,” the coach added.
The final Solomon Islands squad for the 2026 West Pacific Junior Tennis Championships is as follows:
Under-12: Porsche Petersen; Ava Tuhaika; Jessica Kwaiga; Jane Talisha; Mary Maike; Simeon Ri’igalo; Anthony Van Andel; Harry Clay; Jayden Alley
Under-14: Rachel Tamu; Javerlyn Sagontoa; Elena He; Hailie Chottu; Eldwin Kukiti; Coen Barley; Petaia Wickham; Steinar Suti; Shane Manu; Jozadak Maike
Under-16: Petra Tamu, Jen Tahunipue; Michelle Kupenga; Yelana Constantine; William Wheatley; Pio Ruhasia; Aidan Wale; Akay Wickham
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Ms. Jenny Mark, Vice President of the Solomon Islands Tennis Federation, expressed pride in the team’s preparation and gratitude to partners and supporters:
“Our players and coaches have shown exceptional dedication, committing to training throughout the school holidays in preparation for this championship. This tournament is especially important as it serves as a qualifier for the Pacific Junior Oceania Championships, giving our young athletes a valuable opportunity to progress along the regional development pathway. On behalf of the Solomon Islands Tennis Federation, I sincerely thank the Oceania Tennis Federation and the International Tennis Federation for their Financial and technical assistance. We also acknowledge the Government, and the National Sports Council, for their funding and continued support. Hosting our regional neighbours is a great honour, and we look forward to delivering a safe, competitive, and memorable tournament for all participants.”
The West Pacific Junior Tennis Championships promises five days of exciting competition, valuable learning opportunities, and meaningful regional engagement.
SOURCE : Solomon Island Tennis Association
