BY TONY IROGA UFUNONI
The Floorball Federation of Solomon Islands (FFSI) has confirmed that the national women’s team will no longer participate in next month’s World Floorball Championships in Spain due to ongoing instability in the Middle East and the rising costs of alternative travel arrangements.
FFSI President Adam Olofson said the federation was forced to make the difficult decision in order to prioritise support for the national men’s team, the Basiotos, ahead of the international tournament.
Speaking to Island Sun yesterday, Olofson said the withdrawal of the women’s side was unfortunate but necessary as the federation works within limited financial resources.
He explained that concerns surrounding international travel routes and increased airfare costs had made it impossible for both teams to attend the championships in Spain.
Despite the setback, Olofson said preparations for the men’s team remain on track as the Basiotos prepare to represent Solomon Islands on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
“The teams we will meet are tough and unique, and this tournament will be historic for Solomon Islands,” he said.
The Solomon Islands men’s side has been drawn into a challenging Group B pool alongside Ukraine, Iceland, Côte d’Ivoire and defending 2024 champions Latvia.
Olofson said the tournament format allows group winners, runners-up and the four best third-placed teams to advance to the A-playoffs.
“If we go to the A-playoff, I could meet my own big country, Sweden,” he added.
Meanwhile, the federation has received a major boost with sports apparel company Rhino Sportswear signing on as a sponsor for the national team.
Olofson revealed that the company will provide free new uniforms under a two-year sponsorship agreement.
The Basiotos head into the tournament following a strong performance at the AOFC World Floorball Championship Qualifiers in Wellington, New Zealand earlier this year.
According to Olofson, the national side achieved a historic breakthrough by recording its first-ever international victory after defeating Hong Kong China 8-1 to finish ninth overall.
Before withdrawing, the Solomon Islands women’s team had also been drawn into a difficult Group B alongside Finland, Italy, Iceland and the United States.
Olofson is now appealing to businesses, supporters and the public to assist the federation as preparations continue for the men’s campaign in Europe next month.
“We are calling on everyone to come forward and support the team as they prepare to fly the Solomon Islands flag in Spain,” he said.
Photo: Supplied
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