Tournament Kicks Off in Solomon Islands as Oceania Rugby Hosts First-Ever Event Outside of Traditional Member Nations

The Solomon Islands have come together to host the first-ever Oceania Rugby 7s tournament outside of traditional member nations, marking a significant milestone in the region’s sporting calendar. The event, which takes place from December 14-15, will feature teams from Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, and other Pacific Island nations.

**Teams Arrive for Scrimmaging Sessions**

Teams have started arriving earlier this week, with coaches and players engaging in intense scrimmaging sessions to fine-tune their strategies ahead of the tournament. The Solomon Islands National Rugby Team is among those participating, with Coach Frank Puletua expressing his excitement about hosting the event.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government for their remarkable vision and foresight in bringing the Oceania Rugby 7s to Honiara. Their unwavering faith in the power of sport, and their commitment to investing in rugby, speaks volumes about their dedication to growing the game in the Oceania region,” said Puletua.

The event signals increased recognition of the Solomon Islands’ growing stature in the regional sporting community, with the country having successfully hosted the 2023 Pacific Games last November. The tournament will be held at the new sports facilities, including the National Stadium, which will be used for the Oceania 7s.

**Oceania Rugby President Highlights Expanded Reach**

Oceania Rugby president Richard Sapias highlighted the importance of expanding the tournament’s reach to new host nations like the Solomon Islands. “Bringing all these teams to the Solomon Islands, a land with such deep historical significance, is truly special. This is a place where many nations once met in conflict, but now, through the unifying power of sport, we come together,” Sapias said.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele expressed his pride in the announcement, noting the significance of hosting such a major international event. “The Solomon Islands government is deeply humbled to be partners with Oceania Rugby to host this event here in Honiara in December 2024. The Government will do all that it can to make sure that this is a successful and memorable event,” Manele said.

**Partners Happy with Event**

Solomon Islands Rugby executive board president George Temahua said hosting the event “is a dream come true for Solomon Islands Rugby”. “This tournament is not only a proud moment for our nation but a golden opportunity for our players, fans, and the entire country,” he said.

The teams are expected to arrive in Honiara on Friday, with games kicking off on Saturday. Finals will be scheduled for Sunday afternoon.