Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s opens in Honiara, bringing teams together for three days of competition from 16 to 18 September.
The Solomon Ports National Rugby 7s competition has been officially opened, setting the stage for three days of high-intensity rugby at Town Ground Rugby Stadium from 16 to 18 September.
The opening ceremony brought together Solomon Ports Chief Executive Officer George Rausi, Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation (SIRUF) President George Temahua, sponsors, government representatives, invited guests, SIRUF officials and international referees.
Solomon Ports is the major sponsor of this year’s national tournament, which brings together eight association member clubs and four leading local clubs in the men’s senior competition.
The women’s category will feature four teams, while elite high school teams will also compete during the three-day tournament.
The competition is expected to provide an important platform for local players to test themselves against quality opposition, with international players from neighbouring countries also joining the tournament.
International referees have conducted specialised training sessions ahead of the competition, adding another development opportunity for Solomon Islands players, coaches and match officials.
Speaking at the opening, Solomon Ports CEO George Rausi said the company’s support for rugby was part of a long-term commitment to sport and community development.
“This is important for the continued development of rugby across our country.”
Rausi said the involvement of international players and world-class rugby and rugby league referees would give local participants valuable exposure.
“These opportunities will allow our players and our associations to gain experience and raise the standard of our game.”
He also highlighted the importance of increasing opportunities for women and girls in rugby, saying the tournament could encourage more young women to take up the sport.
SIRUF President George Temahua thanked Solomon Ports and other supporting partners for making the national competition possible.
He said the sponsorship represented more than an investment in rugby.
“Your investment is not simply an investment in rugby, it is an investment in our young people, our communities, and the future of Solomon Islands sport.”
With competition beginning on Wednesday, attention now turns to the field, where teams will battle for national honours while showcasing the growing depth of rugby talent in Solomon Islands.
By: Steven Kamoa
