Hundreds farewell Solomons’ football great Menapi
Solomon Islands national football players carrying Menapi’s casket
Family and fans gathered in Honiara today to pay their respects to one of the country’s biggest football stars, the late Commins Menapi.
A memorial service was held at the St. Barnabas Cathedral followed by a football farewell ceremony at Lawson Tama Stadium.
The football star’s relatives attended the ceremony along with national football representatives, Government officials and hundreds of football fans who packed the national stadium to farewell Mr Menapi.
A number of speakers, including family members and teammates, noted their appreciation for Mr Menapi’s contribution to football and sports in the country.
Hundreds braved the heavy downpour to attended the funeral ceremony
Mahlon Houkarawa, who played for the national football team, said the ceremony today signified the respect people had for his former teammate.
He said Mr Menapi belongs to the football field, and that is why they decided to give him a final send-off at the national stadium.
“His two goals against Australia in 2004 united a country that was divided during one of its dark times,” Mr Houkarawa said. “He’s not only a football legend in the country, but he’s also a role model for our young people.”
Mr Menapi’s body will be transported to Lata tomorrow to be buried at his home village in Nagu, Santa Cruz.
By Lowen Sei