IN a significant move aimed at boosting the nation’s football aspirations, the Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Solomon Airlines.
This partnership promises SIFF fare privileges on Solomon Airlines as the prime carrier on international route where it operates for the national teams and international teams visiting the country under SIFF’s auspices.
The MOA was signed in a brief ceremony attended and witnessed by key figures from both organizations – Chairman of Solomon Airlines Board, Frank Wickham and SIFF Chief Executive Officer, Leonard Paia this morning.
SIFF President Donald Marahare and Solomon Airlines Commercial Manager John Wopereis heralded the agreement as a step forward in promoting football and facilitating smoother travel logistics for football athletes and officials.
“We are thrilled to partner with Solomon Airlines,” said SIFF President Marahare.
“Entering into partnership with the Solomon Airlines its a win-win situation for both parties, in this case SIFF the intention is to see that when our national teams travel overseas, they are given afforded and special fare rates – that benefit also extended to international teams traveling to compete here under SIFF.
“It will also make it more attractive for international teams to visit and compete in the Solomon Islands, fostering greater international football exchanges.”
Under the terms of the MOA, both parties agree to collaborate on identifying and engaging prominent ambassadors who will champion football development and community engagement held in the country.
Airlines Commercial Manager Wopereis on behalf Solomon Airlines CEO, emphasized on the airline’s commitment to supporting football in the country.
We are excited to see the potential this partnership with SIFF,” Wopereis said.
“Solomon Airlines is proud for this partnership with SIFF to support the development of football in our country.
“Through this MOA we will be making sure our football players representing us abroad that they can get where they need to go, especially on our airline routes.
He said that it has been an ongoing partnership the airline has with the federation and cementing it signifies a way forward.
“This year we want to make it a bit more different, we are also looking at how we can also support fans that if our national teams travel to countries the airline route reaches how can we help to come up with an incentive for supporters to travel also.
“We hope to alleviate some of the financial pressures faced by SIFF and encourage more international for our teams enhancing the competitive spirit and exposure for our local players.”
The partnership extends beyond, it also includes collaborative efforts in marketing and promotional activities, where both SIFF and Solomon Airlines will work together to highlight the positive impacts of this collaboration. The initiative aims to foster community support and engagement in football, inspiring the next generation of footballers.
This collaboration marks a promising chapter for Solomon Islands football, fostering growth and international cooperation through football.
