In a significant development for rugby in the Pacific, the Solomon Islands Government has joined forces with Oceania Rugby and the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Federation to announce that the 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s will take place in Honiara on December 7th and 8th.
This marks the first occasion that this premier rugby tournament will be held outside of traditional host nations such as Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and Samoa, following the success of the 2023 Pacific Games held in Honiara.
The Solomon Islands Rugby Union, with government support, will host this esteemed tournament, reflecting the country’s rising prominence in the regional sports arena.
The event is expected to attract top rugby talent from across the Pacific and beyond, serving as a crucial qualification opportunity for international tournaments. Two men’s teams and one women’s team will secure spots in the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series.
Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele of the Solomon Islands expressed pride in this announcement, emphasizing the importance of hosting such a major international event.
“The Solomon Islands Government is honored to partner with Oceania Rugby to bring this event to Honiara in December 2024. We will do everything possible to ensure the tournament is successful and memorable. Solomon Islands is proud to be part of the Oceania family, and I look forward to strengthening our relationship with Oceania Rugby,” said Prime Minister Manele.
Richard Sapias, President of Oceania Rugby, emphasized the significance of diversifying tournament locations by including the Solomon Islands.
“We extend our sincerest gratitude to the Solomon Islands Government for their visionary approach in hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s. Their commitment to sport and investment in rugby demonstrates their dedication to the growth of the game in the Oceania region. We are eager to see how this event motivates future rugby players throughout the Pacific,” stated Sapias.
Frank Puletua, General Manager of Oceania Rugby, praised the Solomon Islands’ dedication to sporting excellence.
“Welcoming teams to the Solomon Islands, a place with profound historical significance, is remarkable. It symbolizes the unifying nature of sport. Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s is an opportunity to celebrate rugby while returning to its roots in the Pacific islands, honoring our shared history and showcasing our regional strength,” said Puletua.
The Honorable George Temahua, President of the Solomon Islands Rugby Union Executive Board, expressed enthusiasm for the tournament and its implications for the local rugby scene.
“Hosting the Oceania Rugby 7s is a dream realized for Solomon Islands Rugby. This tournament represents a proud moment for our country and is a golden opportunity for our players and fans. We are excited to welcome the Pacific rugby family to Honiara and demonstrate our capability to host such an esteemed event. We sincerely thank the Solomon Islands Government for their commitment to advancing rugby in our nation, which we believe will inspire the next generation of talent and solidify our position in Pacific rugby,” remarked Temahua.
The 2024 Oceania Rugby 7s, scheduled for December 7th and 8th, will feature teams from across the region competing for qualification to the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series. This tournament will provide two men’s teams and one women’s team a chance to compete on the global stage, further elevating the significance of Pacific rugby and the Solomon Islands in the international sports landscape.
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