Photo Caption: A farewell match was played to bid farewell to the Spainard on Monday at the Lawson Tama stadium.
The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) and friends of football pay tribute to former national head coach and SIFF High-Performance Head, Felipe Vega-Arango.
SIFF hosted a farewell dinner to thank the Spaniard after being re-appointed three years ago in 2021, following his previous role as Technical Director and Head Coach from 2017 to 2019, he has decided to leave the country this week back to Spain.
Felipe was instrumental in elevating the national team’s FIFA World Ranking from 188 to 132 within 7 years – a consistent record in Oceania.
He led the senior team to redemption in the 2023 Melanesian Cup, and despite securing second place at the Pacific Games, his contributions to the High-Performance delivery pathway with the federation have been crucial.
SIFF President, Donald Marahare, thanked Felipe, saying that he has done a tremendous job contributing to the development of the game.
“Your passion, work, and commitment will always be appreciated by football, and we want to wish you well in your future endeavors. Remember, Solomon Islands is always your home,” the President expressed.
The Spaniard officially leaves the country this week, leaving a simple message behind to invest more in youth football to see Solomon football flourish.
“In Solomon, they have to invest in the children, that is the only way,” he said.
“I am so sad, words don’t describe my sadness, and it is a sad day. The Solomon Islands stole my heart.
Felipe would like to thank the SIFF staff, coaches, and players who have worked with him and the Solomon football community for a wonderful two years together.
Meanwhile, national players football officials, and friends also pay tribute to Felipe’s contributions to Solomon Islands football during his stint – a farewell match was organized at the Lawson Tama stadium participated by social clubs, SIFF Titans, S Titans, and Legals United.
