BY JOY OFASIA
For many Solomon Islanders living in Suva, Fiji, being away from home can be difficult. They come from different provinces, islands, tribes and backgrounds, but they still share one national identity. This week, sport will bring many of them together through the new 2026 Suva-Based Islander Futsal League.
The Solomon Islander-led competition will officially kick off on Thursday, 20 August, after team registration closed with 13 teams confirmed to take part.
The league was started by Solomon Island students and working professionals living in Suva. Most members of the organising committee are connected to the University of the South Pacific’s Laucala Campus, Fiji National University, and Solomon Islanders working across the city.
Organising committee secretary Abel Wanesuia said the idea came from a simple wish to connect people.
“We wanted to provide more than just competition but a space for friendship, networking, wellbeing and community building,” Wanesuia said.
He explained that Solomon Islanders in Suva may come from different places, but the league gives them a chance to stand together.
“The league gives us an opportunity to put those differences aside and work together as one community,” he said.
The journey has not been easy. The committee members are volunteers who must balance their studies, jobs and family responsibilities while planning the competition. Finding funding, arranging venues and managing logistics have also created challenges.
Still, Wanesuia said the support of the volunteers and the participating teams kept the dream alive.
Looking ahead, the organisers hope the futsal league will become an annual event that continues for many years.
“Beyond football, we want it to become a community network that promotes youth development, leadership, health and social connection,” Wanesuia said.
The committee hopes to welcome more teams, sponsors and partners in future and may also expand into other sports and community activities.
While tournament prizes are still being finalised, the organisers say the real goal is much bigger than winning. They want the competition to promote discipline, respect, sportsmanship, friendship and unity.
They have thanked every team, supporter and volunteer who helped make the league possible.
For many players, the futsal court will be a place to compete. For the organisers, it will also be a place where Solomon Islanders living far from home can meet, build friendships and feel connected to their people through a shared love of sport and community.
