BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
GIZO came alive yesterday as teams from across Western Province gathered in the provincial capital for the opening of the Western Province Netball Championship.
The championship has attracted teams from Kolombangara, Vella, New Georgia and Gizo, bringing together some of the province’s best netball talent in a tournament that is expected to showcase skill, sportsmanship and community spirit.
Dressed in colourful uniforms, participating teams marched in a parade from the Gizo Police Station to the Gizo Netball Court, where the official opening ceremony was held.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Chairlady of the Local Organising Committee, Salome Topo, acknowledged the commitment shown by participating teams, many of whom travelled through challenging weather conditions to reach Gizo.
She said the championship is an important event for the province as it provides an opportunity for selectors to identify talented players ahead of the upcoming Solomon Games.
“This tournament will help identify players that will form part of Team Western Province Netball squad for the Solomon Games.
“We are pleased that you have committed to come and join this tournament,” Topo said.
She said the organising committee is looking forward to seeing competitive yet fair contests throughout the championship.
Topo also acknowledged the support of the Western Province Sports Division and the Western Provincial Government for assisting the committee in hosting the event.
Guest of honour, Freedom Tozaka, highlighted the important role sports play in both social and economic development.
He said the Western Provincial Government remains committed to supporting sporting activities throughout the province.
“Sports promote peace, unity and harmony, and also create a spirit of community, so it is equally important to encourage sporting events,” Tozaka said.
He added that the championship provides a valuable platform for players from different parts of the province to learn from one another while embracing the true spirit of sportsmanship.
Tozaka wished all participating teams’ success throughout the tournament.
“May the best team win,” he said.
The championship is expected to continue over the coming days, with teams competing for provincial honours and the opportunity to earn selection into the Western Province squad for the Solomon Games.
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