When Football was a Religion in Solomon Islands

On September 4, 1992, a historic football match between Australia and the Solomon Islands took place at the Lawson Tama Stadium in Honiara, drawing a crowd of over 15,000 passionate fans. The atmosphere was electric as the Solomon Islanders eagerly watched their national team take on the formidable Australian side.

The match was a major event in the country’s football history, with spectators filling the stands and surrounding areas, showcasing their unwavering support for the local team. Playing on home soil, was a significant milestone for Solomon Islands football, reflecting the growing passion for the sport in the nation.

During that time, football in the Solomon Islands was more than just a sport—it was like a religion, deeply woven into the social lives of the Solomon Islanders. The love for football transcended generations, from children kicking homemade balls on sandy beaches to adults playing in local leagues or Christmas tournaments.

For children, football was a way of life. From a young age, kids were captivated by the game, idolizing local stars and national heroes. With few resources, children often made their own footballs from plastic bags, papers, or coconut leaves or husks, playing for hours under the tropical sun.

Every empty space—be it a street corner, schoolyard, or village clearing—became a football field. Their passion was unshakable, fueled by dreams of one day representing their country or following in the footsteps of their footballing idols. Football was not just a pastime but a source of hope and joy, uniting people of all ages and backgrounds across the islands.

For many Solomon Islanders, football was an expression of community pride and identity, offering a sense of unity in a country spread across scattered islands.

Footballers of that era often balanced their passion for the game with full-time jobs. Many worked as civil servants, teachers, or in local businesses, yet they remained fully committed to their teams, playing in regional tournaments and representing the country internationally. Despite their busy lives, these athletes gave their all to the sport, driven by a deep love for football and the dreams it inspired.

The three videos below provide a fascinating look at football players in the 1990s, offering insight into their dual lives as both athletes and civil servants.

The third video also includes actual footage from the memorable game day between Australia and Solomon Islands.