Lad happy to be part of the historic tournament
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Star Sports, Honiara
One of the key pioneers of hockey since its reintroduction to the Solomon Islands around 2015, Enoch Mae Paekera says it is a huge honour to be part of the Solomon Islands contingent currently in Auckland, New Zealand joining the Hype Pacific All-Star Team for the upcoming Heritage Hockey Tournament from April 3–6.
Speaking to Star Sports, the 27-year-old said he is humbled to be part of this historic moment for hockey in the Solomon Islands.
“I am truly humbled and honoured to join the Pacific All-Star Team, representing the Pacific hockey family and my country,” he said.
Paekera is joined by five other local hockey talents who departed the country over the weekend ahead of the competition.
“It will be tough and challenging, but we will do our best. This opportunity will give us exposure to a higher level of competition, not only in the game but also in building new relationships and creating more opportunities for many of our local hockey players,” Paekera said.
Introduced to the sport in 2015 while attending Honiara Senior High School, the White Kovara player said this experience is the first of its kind in his playing career.
“I am thankful to Brett Levers, the founder of the NZ Heritage Competition, and to everyone responsible for making this opportunity available for Solomon Islands hockey,” he added.
With most of the players accustomed to 5-a-side competition, Paekera acknowledged that transitioning to the 11-a-side format will be challenging, but emphasised that the team is determined to give their best.
Speaking on the challenges faced before travelling, Paekera expressed hope for greater support from local businesses and sporting authorities in the future.
“We did our own fundraising to cover airfares and visas, and a big thanks to the National Sports Council (NSC) for providing us space to train at SINIS,” he said.
Paekera also encouraged other local hockey players in the country to stay committed and work hard.
“To all our hockey athletes back home, we will do our best to represent you. More opportunities are coming. Be patient, keep working hard, listen to your coaches, and be disciplined. With God, all things are possible,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Hype Pacific All-Stars, featuring players from across the Pacific, will make their debut in the annual Easter tournament celebrating culture and hockey this weekend.
