The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has launched a sports engagement program at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport in Honiara. Running from November 25 to December 1, the initiative aims to foster connections, build skills, and strengthen ties between Australia and the Solomon Islands through judo, rugby union and soccer.
On the opening day, the ADF joined the Solomon Islands women's rugby sevens team for training drills, setting the tone for a week of collaboration and camaraderie. As part of the program, the ADF donated a range of sports gear to Solomon Islands athletes, equipping them with tools to enhance their training and performance.
Philemon Campbell, Performance Manager for Team Sports at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport, emphasised the importance of the initiative.
"It's a very big thing for the Solomon Islands to have the ADF come and play against us, as we don't get much exposure. It really helps when we are trying to improve our game," he said.
The ADF women's rugby team, coached by by Captain Zara Lee, an Australian Army Education Officer with 11 years of service, emphasised the significance of this opportunity for both teams and the broader community.
"We are here to engage with local communities and, specifically as a women's rugby team, we're here to assist the Solomon Islands women's national rugby team as they prepare for the upcoming HSBC series in December," Captain Lee explained.
"They're also aiming to qualify for the Challenger Series next year, which would be a huge step for rugby in the Solomon Islands."
The Solomon Islands women's team is determined to secure first or second place in the HSBC Series to progress to the Challenger Series-a major milestone for the nation.
Captain Lee highlighted the broader impact of this opportunity.
"With the Oceania Sevens being hosted here, it's an incredible chance for the Solomon Islands to showcase their culture and way of living to the wider world. They haven't had this opportunity in rugby before."
For Captain Lee, this collaboration is particularly meaningful.
"This is a huge opportunity for ADF women's rugby to be here. It's not often we get the chance to compete against another national team," she said.
"We all joined defence locally and abroad, and this is a unique way to engage with others across the different sports represented by the ADF."
The Solomon Islands team is also seeing a surge of interest amongst young women inspired by these developments.
"When speaking to the team, they said it's a huge opportunity for the girls. They're finding more and more girls wanting to be a part of it.
"They're getting professional coaching opportunities, which they're leaning into, and taking full advantage of the experience," said Captain Lee.
