The Solomon Islands Women’s U16 team has been officially named for the upcoming OFC Women’s U16 Championship, set to take place in Fiji.
The tournament, from September 8 to September 21, will be held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, which will serve as the qualifying tournament for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2025.
Head Coach Patrick Miniti has carefully selected a 23-player squad that has undergone intense preparations over the past four months.
Many of the players in the current team were part of the National U15 side that competed in the OFC Women’s U15 Development tournament in April, bringing valuable experience to the lineup.
Coach Miniti also included in the team a New Zealand-based player, Bella Fa’arodo – daughter of former Solomon Islands International Henry Fa’arodo Jr who will be joining the team in Fiji this weekend.
Squad List:
Goalkeepers:
– Fiona Goroani
– Fernado Fosimo
Defenders:
– Brenda Areni
– Hellen Reubinson
– Catherine Ramokoala
– Teisika Rotoava
– Junita Popu
– Mavis Kofela
– Anna Stephen
– Freda Gwali
– Bella Fa’arodo
– Mulan Oihanua
– Leandry Konare
Midfielders:
– Betty Oriana
– Agnes Afia
– Angie Ragaruma
– Hilda Kuisea
– Joyce Siosi
Forwards:
– Anna Ellen
– Joy Toby
– Rose Aba
Coach Miniti expressed pride in the team’s dedication and the development they’ve achieved through demanding training sessions.
“These young players have shown remarkable growth and commitment throughout the preparation phase,” he noted.
“We are now focused on giving our best performance and making our country proud.”
The squad is set to depart this Saturday, August 31.
In the tournament, the Solomon Islands has been drawn into Group B, where they will face tough competition from New Caledonia, New Zealand, and Tahiti.
Coach Miniti acknowledges the challenges ahead but emphasizes the importance of building the players’ confidence and staying focused.
“It will be a challenging task, but the most important thing is to stay focused and allow these young girls to grow and develop in such competitions.”
-SIFF Media
