After a three-year absence, beach soccer is set to make a strong comeback on Ranonggah Island, Western Province, as the 2026 Lea Beach Soccer Tournament kicks off tomorrow – Tuesday 6th January at the Lea Beach Soccer Centre.
The tournament will run for three days, from January 6 to Thursday, January 8, 2026, with organizers describing the revival as a significant milestone for beach soccer in the area.
“We invite all local teams, community members and sports enthusiasts to come down and witness the return of this iconic beach soccer tradition,” a statement from the Lea Beach Soccer Centre said.
Organizers also confirmed that this year’s tournament has received timely support from tax-payers through the Member of Parliament (MP) for Ranongga/Simbo Constituency, Hon. Wayne Ghemu.
“Heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Wayne Ghemu for supporting this year’s Lea Beach Soccer Tournament. His timely support will definitely help rekindle the spirit of beach soccer here on Ranongga Island,” the organizers added.
Attractive prize monies are up for grabs, with the champions set to walk away with $10,000, while the runners-up will receive $6,000. The third-placed team will earn $3,000, and the fourth-placed team will take home $1,500.
With excitement building ahead of kickoff, the Lea Beach Soccer Tournament has, in the past, produced several talented players who went on to represent the country on the international stage.
By TIMOTHY INIFIRI JNR
Solomon Star, Honiara
