After weeks of planning, collaboration, and last-minute changes, the Solomon Islands’ team has finally flown out to Palau to compete in the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, thanks to critical support from the National Sports Council (NSC).
On Saturday evening, 25 athletes and officials—carefully selected from the sports of Athletics, Basketball 3×3, and Beach Volleyball—boarded their flight to represent the country on the regional stage. Their participation, confirmed by NSC Chair Joe Sika Manuopangai, marks a significant milestone for local sport, where teamwork off the field proved just as vital as talent on it.
| Beach Volleyball | Athletics | Basketball 3×3 | |||
| Teriba | Tam | Pusua | Leeroy | Ramo | Maelasi |
| Manoa | Navere | Alulu | Dianah | Kausua | Masaea |
| Pasio | Jeffery | Leony | Julian | Homelo | Kenneth |
| Matekali | Frances | Kio | Wainita | ||
| Sosimo | Junior | Wanefai | Annie | ||
| Dau | Donald | Basia | Dorothy | ||
| Geejay | Breeze | Otasui | Monique | ||
| Laeta | David | Basia | Bart | ||
| Pita | Lendrick | Elijah | Augustine | ||
| Junior | Jack | Kalita | Alex | ||
| Ola | Danny | ||||
| Iroga | Vabo |
“It’s been a complicated process with unexpected changes, but we’re proud to have met our commitment to these athletes,” said Mr. Manuopangai. “We’re incredibly proud of the team representing us.”
Saturday morning saw final discussions between the NSC and the three supported national sports federations—Athletics Solomons, Solomon Islands Basketball Federation, and Solomon Islands Volleyball Federation. While the Solomon Islands Weightlifting Federation had been invited, it was confirmed during the meeting that the weightlifting team had withdrawn from participation.
The outcome: a unified team, selected by their respective federations, ready to give their all for the Solomon Islands. With competition heating up among the Pacific’s best, the journey ahead is not just about medals—it’s about heart, pride, and unity.
The NSC also extended gratitude to Solomon Airlines for their flexibility and support in helping the team depart on time.
“Our national carrier went above and beyond. Without their patience and assistance, this might not have been possible,” said Mr. Manuopangai.
As Team Solomon sets foot in Palau, the NSC calls on all Solomon Islanders to back their athletes.
“Let’s stand behind our team. They carry not only their skills but also the hopes of an entire nation,” Mr. Manuopangai urged.
