Soon after the Kurukuru futsal team mesmerized Suva fans with their skills, the Bilikiki boys have again wrapped up their campaign and secured an unprecedented 4th World Cup appearance. Henry Koto, the coach, has pledged that the Bilikiki boys will aim to go past the first round. 
These achievements bear startling similarities to those of the Fijian 7’s team and the King of Seven’s Waisale Serevi. Many have marveled at the “Flying Fijians” and the sheer joy of watching them play the game with a touch of class, intrigue and fun. Where most teams are clinical and precise, the Fijians are jovial and unpredictable. Likewise, the beach and futsal Solomon teams also flaunt unparalleled skills and talent that many could only dream about. On the beach, James Naka is king and on the futsal hardcourt, none works harder then Elliot Ragomo.
Like the Fijian 7’s team, I have doubts that Solomon Islands will continue to dominate the Oceania in futsal and beach soccer relying on skills alone. There will come a time when other teams will take a more systematic approach to the game and consistently win too. To counter this, Solomon Islands, must evolve quickly and adopt those needed changes while it is still ahead.
In futsal, Solomon Islands is already miles ahead but more needs to be done to strengthen and consolidate our position. Younger players must be molded to play the game properly using both tact and skills. A dedicated futsal arena is also a must; a place where future stars of the game can be bred and developed.
Beach soccer already has a home on the DJ Park east of Honiara. It also has the strong backing of DJ Graphics as its major sponsor giving it prominence and publicity. Already a lot of youths have embraced the game and compete regularly in Honiara.
Now SIFF must look beyond Honiara, it must search for more James Naka from Malaita; more Elliot Ragomo from the Western Province. It must give more opportunities for these prodigies to shine and take Solomon Islands to newer heights. These two sports are heavily reliant on skills and an abundance of skills is what Solomon Islanders are naturally blessed with. But lest we forget; despite the sheer brilliance of the skilled Flying Fijians, they soon found out that it can only take them a certain distance. A whole new approach was needed and once the Flying Fijians get that magic potion mixed to perfection; they will be unstoppable. Solomon Islands futsal and beach soccer must learn that lesson too.
But today, I take my hat off to James Naka – you are a true champion. I take my hat off to Elliot Ragomo – you deserve to break a world record and I hope both will make themselves household names internationally.
Finally, both successful teams are named after birds. The Bonitoes, the Mamulas and dolphins are still not making splashes but if we were to be just as successful in the full code; I will be most proud.