Solomon Kings FC has vowed to work tirelessly to be ready for the inaugural OFC Pro League season, despite a late start to pre-season preparations.
Head coach Ben Cahn has assured fans that despite starting pre-season later than some competitors, he and his coaching staff will try their best to get the team ready before kick-off.
“Look, it’s probably the case that there are other clubs in a similar position as well. The timeframe between announcing the licences and the competition starting was a short time for everybody and there are some clubs that are more established than others.
“They might have a small advantage in the early rounds, but we’ll do everything we can to be ready. It might take some time, but we’ll work exceptionally hard to make sure we’re ready,” Cahn said.
After his first three sessions with the club last week, the former Brisbane Roar FC head coach praised his players, noting their commitment and potential.
“The level’s been amazing. We’ve done three to four sessions so far and they’re great players. They give everything and they want to learn. I think the intensity has been a big step up for them now,” he added.
The club also confirmed that the squad will include 20 local players and three overseas players, with one already in the country while talks continue for the other two.
Despite the late start to training, Cahn is confident the team will hit the ground running.
“The standard’s been really high, the attitude’s been great and there are some really good senior players and leaders in that group that help to mentor the younger guys and ensure that the standards are met.”
He also outlined the club’s short and long term goals, stating that the initial focus will be on establishing a competitive team in the OFC Pro League while laying sustainable standards.
“We want to create an identity, a culture and standards around Solomon Kings FC as a professional football club, create some pride in the badge and create a brand and an organisation that every young boy in the Solomon Islands can aspire to.”
He also assured the people of the Solomon Islands that he understands how seriously they take football here.
“I will do everything in my power to accelerate football in this nation and take us further forward,” he said.
Meanwhile, trainings will go on weekly, with Sundays reserved for recovery. On December 28, the club will leave for a two-week training camp in Brisbane ahead of the league’s first circuit, which kicks off on January 17 in Auckland.
Solomon Kings will play their opening match on January 18 against PNG Hekari United FC.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
