BY ALICE THEGNAMANA
The Savo and Russells Constituency Games 2025 officially opened in Yanina with a strong message of unity, peace, and hope, as the Member of Parliament for Savo and Russells, Hon. Oliver Salopuka, declared the games open before athletes, leaders, and community members.
This year’s games are held under the theme, “Uniting Communities of Savo & Russells through sports, promoting youth engagement and celebrating Christmas in the spirit of peace, respect and sportsmanship.” The theme reflects the true meaning of the event, which goes beyond competition and focuses on bringing people together.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hon. Salopuka first paid tribute to the local organizing committee and community members who have supported the games over the years. He thanked them for their commitment and for hosting the event on their land.
“Ladies and gentlemen of Russell Islands, I’d like to begin by honoring our local organization and local organizing committee members who have hosted these games from the previous tournaments until today,” he said. “They have stood side by side on this journey, and we are grateful to have these games here in our constituency.”
He reminded the gathering that the games come at a time when many parts of Solomon Islands are facing challenges and division, but the Russells Islands stand as a place of unity.
“For the next week, warriors unite in this moment of difficulty and division in many parts of Solomon Islands,” Hon. Salopuka said. “We gather here in Russell Islands in a spirit of unity.”
He explained that sports have the power to cross differences and bring people together through shared values of respect and teamwork.
“Beyond our differences, here at the constituency games, we are grounded in mutual respect,” he said. “We compete fiercely, but we believe in one another, support one another, and cheer for one another.”
Hon. Salopuka reflected on how the games began more than ten years ago, saying they were born from a personal promise he made to serve his people and bring athletes together.
“The games were born from a promise I made to myself as your MP,” he said. “It was a promise to fulfill my obligation to bring athletes together and to stand for everything we believe in.”
He praised the athletes and communities for their strength and determination, especially during difficult times.
“It was you who pushed through the doubts,” he said. “The games today simply reveal what is already within you, your character, your courage, and your resilience.”
He also spoke about healing and hope, saying sports can give people a sense of purpose and belonging.
“One of the ways of healing does not always come from hospitals,” he said. “It comes from having a sense of purpose and being part of something greater than ourselves.”
Hon. Salopuka said the leadership shown by athletes on and off the field is important not only for the constituency but also for the nation.
“The example you set is a compass for Solomon Islands,” he said. “We need you, and we will always need you.”
He challenged athletes to show respect, courage, and joy as they compete and assured them of his continued support for sports development.
“As your Member of Parliament, it is my obligation to groom healthy and responsible citizens through sports,” he said. “We are not just here to score goals or run races, but to build strong minds, bodies, and character.”
In closing, he encouraged all participants to compete with respect and unity.
“Fly the flag of respect, love, and unity,” he said. “Let us show that our constituency is a peace-loving people through sports.”
