JOINT ANNOUNCEMENT: Solomon Islands Government and Oceania Rugby Announce Historic Oceania Rugby 7s Tournament in Honiara
In a landmark moment for rugby in the Pacific region, the Solomon Islands Government in partnership with Oceania Rugby and the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation is proud to announce that the 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s will be hosted in Honiara on December 7th and 8th. This is the first time that the region’s premiere rugby tournament will be held outside of Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa, and it follows the highly successful 2023 Pacific Games in Honiara.
The Solomon Islands Rugby Union, with the support of the national government, will host the prestigious tournament, signaling increased recognition of the country’s growing stature in the regional sporting community. The event will draw elite rugby talent from across the Pacific and beyond, and will serve as a key qualification event for global tournaments, with two men’s teams and one women’s team earning spots in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.
Solomon Islands Prime Minister, Hon. Jeremiah Manele, expressed his pride in the announcement, noting the significance of hosting such a major international event.
“The Solomon Islands Government is deeply humbled to be partners with Oceania Rugby to host this event here in Honiara in December 2024. The Government will do all that it can to make sure that this is a successful and memorable event. Solomon Islands is proud to be part of the Oceania family of countries and I look forward to working closely with Oceania Rugby and to nurture and grow this relationship from strength to strength.” said Prime Minister Manele.
Oceania Rugby President Richard Sapias, highlighted the importance of expanding the tournament’s reach to new host nations like the Solomon Islands.
Oceania Rugby Manager Mr. Puletua, SIRUF President Temahua MP, PM Manele and Supervising, PS of Home Affairs Waleanisia with the signed Agreement.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government for their remarkable vision and foresight in bringing the Oceania Rugby 7s to Honiara. Their unwavering faith in the power of sport, and their commitment to investing in rugby, speaks volumes about their dedication to growing the game in the Oceania region. This partnership is a testament to their leadership, and we are excited to see how this event will inspire future generations of rugby players across the Pacific,” said Sapias, Oceania Rugby President.
“Bringing all these teams to the Solomon Islands, a land with such deep historical significance, is truly special. This is a place where many nations once met in conflict, but now, through the unifying power of sport, we come together. Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s here is not only about celebrating rugby but also about bringing the game back to its roots in the Pacific islands. It’s a chance to honor our shared history while showcasing the strength of our region through rugby 7s—a sport that unites us all,” said Frank Puletua, General Manager of Oceania Rugby.
President of the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Executive Board, the Honorable George Temahua, expressed his excitement about the upcoming tournament and its significance for the local rugby community.
“Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s is a dream come true for Solomon Islands Rugby. This tournament is not only a proud moment for our nation but a golden opportunity for our players, fans, and the entire country. We are ready to welcome the Pacific rugby family to Honiara and showcase our ability to host such a prestigious event. We would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank the Solomon Islands Government for their unwavering commitment to the growth of rugby in our nation. We believe this will inspire a new generation of rugby talent in the Solomon Islands and cement our place in the Pacific rugby landscape,” said Hon. George Temahua.
The 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s, taking place on December 7th and 8th, will bring together teams from across the region, competing for qualification to the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series. The tournament offers two men’s teams and one women’s team the chance to compete on the global stage, further enhancing its significance for Pacific rugby and for the Solomon Islands on the international sporting map.
Ends///
– OPMC PRESS