Solomon Islands Welcomes Back ADF Sports Program to Inspire a Culture of Sporting Excellence

The Solomon Islands has once again welcomed the Australian Defence Force (ADF) International Sports Program, with this year's visit carrying a strong message of ambition, collaboration and sporting excellence.

Launched in Honiara this week, the program brings together athletes, coaches, officials and community members to build skills, strengthen partnerships and support the continued growth of sport across the country.

ADF members gather in the Solomon Islands for an International Sports Program at the Solomon Islands National Institute of Sport, Honiara. 

This year's program features volleyball, hockey, netball and tennis, providing participants with opportunities to develop their expertise through coaching, umpiring, first aid training and sports trainer accreditation. Members of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force joined representatives from local sporting communities to take part in the training activities.

A significant highlight of the 2026 program is the inclusion of hockey and tennis for the first time, reflecting the steady progress both sports have made in governance and development. Netball, recognised as the Solomon Islands' leading women's sport, also remains a key focus.

The introduction of seated volleyball marks another important milestone, reinforcing a commitment to inclusion and the promotion of disability sport throughout the country.

Captain Matthew Mitchell, Officer in Charge of the ADF International Sports Program, said sport remains a powerful tool for strengthening relationships and creating opportunities for communities.

Royal Australian Air Force, Leading Aircraftwoman Amanda Crowley gifts Judo Gis to Solomon Islands Judo teams.

"This program represents the strong partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands, a partnership built on trust and respect," Captain Mitchell said.

"By working together, sharing expertise and investing in local capability, we're helping create opportunities for individuals, teams and communities to grow and succeed. Through sport, we can connect with people from different backgrounds and continue to deliver benefits long after the final whistle."

For the Solomon Islands, the program arrives at a time when sport is increasingly being recognised as a pathway for personal development, achievement and national pride. Growing participation across a range of sports is creating greater demand for qualified coaches, officials and support personnel who can help athletes reach their full potential.

Chief Executive Officer of the Solomon Islands National Sports Council, Alison Burchell, said the country must embrace a more competitive mindset if it is to maximise its sporting potential on the regional and international stage.

RSIPF and local sporting communities participate in an umpire course run by the ADF Sports International Sports Program.

"Coaches play a key role in influencing our athletes, and we need to change our mindset from participation to competition," Ms Burchell said.

"Together, we need to ensure our athletes are prepared to put Solomon Islands on the world map through winning medals and reaching finals."

She emphasised that sustainable sporting success begins with investing in the people who guide and support athletes.

"Strong coaches and officials create strong athletes, and that's where lasting success begins."

Programs such as the ADF International Sports Program play an important role in building that foundation by providing practical training and professional development opportunities. The skills and knowledge gained by participants are expected to benefit sporting organisations and communities well beyond the duration of the program.

Ms Burchell expressed appreciation to both the Australian Defence Force and the Australian High Commission for their ongoing support.

Hockey participants discuss game play strategies.

"We sincerely thank the Australian Defence Force and the Australian High Commission for their continued partnership and support."

"Programs like this demonstrate the value of working together to develop people, strengthen communities and grow sport across the Solomon Islands."

As participants return to their respective sporting organisations and communities, the lessons learned and connections established during the program will continue to create positive impacts. By strengthening local capability and inspiring future generations of athletes, coaches and officials, the initiative is helping to lay the foundations for long-term sporting success.

Beyond the training courts and playing fields, the program also serves as another example of the enduring partnership between Australia and the Solomon Islands, united by a shared commitment to community development, inclusion and achievement through sport.