Solomon Islands receive hero’s welcome
In what was the story of the FFA National Futsal Championships, the Solomon Islands Under 12 side received a special ticker tape parade and were crowned national stars after their monumental 3-1 Grand-Final victory over the NSW Metro Thunder at Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre.
The team captured the hearts of every neutral fan who witnessed the final as tiny Pacific nation swept passed their higher fancied opponents thanks to a double strike by Richard Sale and a goal from Raynolds Boboria all but assured the Championship for coach Frax Ramofafia.
When the team touched down at Honiara International Airport, they were greeted by thousands of locals who came to congratulate and acknowledge the massive achievement the squad had fulfilled.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare was also on hand to greet the squad as the victory lifted and boosted the country morale with the story hitting all major news outlets.
Each player as well as the Under 14 side who performed admirably in the tournament each received $1500 provided by the government due to their success in Sydney.
The Solomon Islands Prime Minister stated that the money had come at a good period for the youngsters who are all preparing for the new school year.
“The money will be paid at no better time than now when you will need to buy your new school uniforms and your other needs to return to your respective schools this year.
“You have made your government, parents, friends and the country as a whole, very proud with your outstanding results.
“You have shown our friends in Australia that you too can do it,” he stated the ‘Solomon Star’.
President of the Solomon Islands Sports Coalition Pr Nacanieli Seru stated to the Solomon Star his delight upon seeing his group of young men dazzle with their skill and flair towards the Australian public at Homebush.
“Futsal is a sport that always makes the nation proud,’’ he said.
Seru highlighted that their achievement came as result of SALT program conducted by the SISC in schools and communities in the country as well as the Bulk Shop league.
The junior league for primary and secondary students is also ready to take off shortly with the aim of maintain and bettering the level of development of the promising young players coming through the system.
