BY JOY OFASIA
Solomon Islands Football Federation President Donald Marahare has paid tribute to longtime football administrator and turf development specialist Reuben Oimae, describing him as one of the most influential figures in the development of football infrastructure and beach soccer in the Solomon Islands.
In a heartfelt eulogy delivered on behalf of SIFF, colleagues and friends,members of the football community gathered to honour Oimae’s life and contribution to the sport, remembering him as both a dedicated professional and a deeply respected friend.
Speaking on his journey with SIFF Mr Marahare said Oimae began his journey with SIFF in 2000 and 2001 as a turf assistant during the construction of Lawson Tama Stadium under the FIFA Goal I Project. During that time, he worked closely with renowned turf expert Laurie Stubbing, who became both his mentor and trainer.
He said over the years, Oimae became widely recognised for his expertise in turf construction and stadium development. In 2005, he travelled to Samoa to assist with the FIFA Goal Project construction of the Toleafoa J.S. Blatter Soccer Stadium.
His work later extended across several football facilities in the Solomon Islands, including JFK Stadium in Gizo, Aligegeo Stadium, and the former Allan Boso Complex field in Honiara.
SIFF President said at the time of his passing, Oimae had been actively involved in the FIFA-funded refurbishment of JFK Stadium and was scheduled to travel to Gizo later this week to continue the project
“Although he left SIFF in 2013 to pursue other opportunities, Oimae remained closely connected to football development. Between 2014 and 2015, he worked in Papua New Guinea alongside John Kappi Nato on football field projects, once again reuniting with Laurie Stubbing.
During that period, he also furthered his studies in turf construction and management at Bond University in Australia with support from SIFF, while gaining additional experience at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.”
He said Oimae later co-founded Happy Isles Landscaping and Turf, contributing to infrastructure projects for the 2023 Pacific Games, including football facilities at the current SIFF Headquarters and Technical Centre. He returned to SIFF in 2024 as Property Manager, serving faithfully until his passing.
Mr Marahare said beyond infrastructure development, Oimae was also remembered as a passionate advocate for football and beach soccer. A former player himself, he later became one of the most respected team managers of the Solomon Islands national beach soccer team, the Bilikiki.
SIFF President acknowledged Oimae as one of the pioneers of beach soccer in the country, noting his role in helping establish and grow the sport nationally. He was part of the management team that guided the Bilikiki to multiple FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup appearances in Brazil in 2006, and subsequent tournaments in 2007, 2008, 2009, and 2013.
He said most recently, he served as team manager during the 2024 OFC Beach Soccer Championship hosted in Honiara — the first time the event had been staged in the Solomon Islands.
He also played a key role in the formation and management of Solomon Kings Football Club.
He described Oimae as a friendly, kind-hearted, and joyful person who brought warmth to every workplace. He was known for greeting everyone with a smile and maintaining a positive spirit that inspired those around him.
“The mark Reuben made on football — especially through our fields, stadiums, and beach soccer — cannot be overstated,” the SIFF tribute stated.
SIFF president further recognised him as one of the region’s leading turf development experts, regularly attending FIFA workshops and knowledge exchanges throughout the Pacific.
“Beyond all his skill and service, Reuben was such a good human being. A good friend. A caring person with an almost permanent smile,” the tribute said.
The federation extended its deepest condolences to Oimae’s family, saying his legacy would continue to live on through the many football facilities, players, and communities he helped shape across the Solomon Islands and the Pacific region.
“Reuben, you are gone from our sight, but you will not be forgotten. We thank you for your life. We will miss you greatly. Rest in peace, dear brother.”
