Kumakana makes history with European floorball trial opportunity
BY TONY IROGA
Twenty-one-year-old goalkeeper MacArthur Kumakana has etched his name into Solomon Islands sporting history after becoming the first local floorball player to secure trial opportunities with European clubs.
The milestone follows Kumakana’s impressive performances for the Solomon Islands National Floorball Team during its debut appearance at the International Floorball Federation (IFF) 3v3 Floorball World Championship in Spain earlier this month, where his goalkeeping skills attracted the attention of overseas scouts.
Speaking to Island Sun from Sweden yesterday, Kumakana described the opportunity as a proud moment for himself and for the growing sport of floorball in the Solomon Islands.
“I am proud to be the first Solomon Islander to receive this opportunity, and I believe more chances will come for our young floorball players back home if they are willing to work hard and take their opportunities,” Kumakana said.
He said floorball is one of the fastest-growing sports globally and enjoys strong support throughout Europe, particularly in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries.
“Floorball is a major sport here in Europe, especially in Sweden and other Scandinavian countries. It is growing rapidly around the world and is now expanding into Africa. The 3v3 version is also expected to become part of future Olympic Games,” he said.
Kumakana believes the sport has enormous potential in the Solomon Islands and could grow alongside football and futsal.
“I see great potential for floorball to develop alongside football and futsal in our country. We have talented young athletes, and this sport can provide another pathway for them to compete internationally,” he said.
The goalkeeper revealed that floorball has already been introduced into several schools, with plans underway to expand programmes to more schools across Honiara and eventually into the other provinces.
Looking ahead, Kumakana said his immediate goal is to secure a professional contract and gain valuable experience in Europe that can help strengthen the sport back home.
“My goal is to earn a contract with a team and play at a higher level. The experience I gain here will help me improve as a player and contribute to helping Solomon Islands qualify for future World Championships.”
He also encouraged young Solomon Islanders to pursue their sporting dreams through dedication and hard work.
“Work hard, train hard, surround yourself with positive people, and take every opportunity to improve. Use social media to showcase your talents and your training because it can help create opportunities. If you are interested in floorball, come and join early because the sport is growing very fast and could one day lead to Olympic opportunities.”
Kumakana also expressed gratitude to those who have supported his journey.
“I would like to thank the Floorball Federation of Solomon Islands President, Adam Olofsson, my teammates, our captain Ricky Fairamoa, my family, especially my mother, and my uncle who gave me the opportunity to pursue this dream. Without their support, I would not be here today.”
Accompanying Kumakana during his European tour is FFSI President Adam Olofsson, who confirmed that several clubs have already shown interest in the young goalkeeper.
According to Olofsson, five European clubs have expressed interest in Kumakana, including Danish club Hvidovre Attack.
“MacArthur has impressed a number of clubs with his performances, and currently five clubs have shown interest in him, including Hvidovre Attack in Denmark,” Olofsson said.
He said the trial period will continue until September 9, after which discussions regarding contracts, residency permits and work visas could begin if a club decides to sign the Solomon Islands goalkeeper.
“MacArthur will remain in Europe until September 9. If a club decides to offer him a contract, there will then be a paperwork process involving residency and work permit applications. We are hopeful and will continue supporting him throughout that process,” Olofsson explained.
Olofsson said Kumakana’s achievement demonstrates that international opportunities are possible for Solomon Islanders who are willing to work hard and remain committed to their goals.
“Anything is possible if you work hard and are determined to succeed. Floorball is an excellent sport for Solomon Islanders because it is fast-paced, exciting and suits the natural athletic abilities of our people,” he said.
Introduced to the Solomon Islands only in 2022, floorball has experienced remarkable growth in a short period. A successful trial will see Kumakana become the first Solomon Islander to play floorball professionally in Europe, further highlighting the rapid rise of the sport in the country.
For many young athletes, Kumakana’s journey is already serving as proof that dedication, perseverance and belief can open doors far beyond Solomon Islands shores.
Photo: Supplied
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