THE Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) Technical Department has officially announced the appointment of Australian coach Josh Smith as the new Head Coach of the Solomon Islands National Team.
Smith’s appointment marks a significant step forward for Solomon Islands football as the team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers in October.
SIFF Technical Director, Moses Toata, who is currently serving as the interim Head Coach for the Tri-Nations Series in Fiji, revealed that Smith will use this week’s international friendly matches to familiarize himself with the players before assuming full control of the squad.
“Josh Smith is no stranger to the Solomon Islands football scene. He has made substantial contributions to Pacific football through the Dural Football Ministry and has played a key role in developing some of the region’s most prolific talents who have gone on to play in Australia,” Toata stated.
Smith brings a wealth of experience to the Solomon Islands, having coached several top clubs in Australia, including Adelaide City, FK Beograd, Adelaide Cobras, Adelaide United, and Central Coast Mariners. He has also served as a Technical Advisor for the Vanuatu National Team.
His coaching credentials are impressive, boasting an AFC A License and a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science. Additionally, Smith runs the Player Performance Project, a high-performance football center in Australia that specializes in sports science and athletic development for footballers.
Smith’s expertise and familiarity with Pacific football are expected to be invaluable as the Solomon Islands National Team gears up for their World Cup Qualifying campaign. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to elevate the team’s performance on the international stage.
As Smith prepares to take the helm, the Solomon Islands football community eagerly anticipates the positive impact he will bring to the national team.
