Hekari FC Connects with Community During OFC Pro League Stay in Honiara

Hekari delegation visited White River Primary School

PNG Hekari FC have been in Honiara since last week for Round 4 of the OFC Pro League, Oceania’s professional club competition.

While the main focus of the trip is now their upcoming fixture against Tahiti United FC on 18 March at 6:00pm, the Hekari delegation has also taken time to connect with local communities during their stay in the Solomon Islands.

Earlier last week, on Thursday 12 March, the Hekari delegation visited White River Primary School where players and officials met with students and teachers and spent time encouraging the young learners about the importance of education, discipline and sport. During the same visit, the team also stopped by the nearby White River Police Station where they met with officers and members of the local community.

Officials and players from PNG Hekari FC paid a courtesy visit to White River Police Station, meeting with officers and thanking them for their service to the community.

During the visit, Hekari coach Jerry Sam, a former student of White River Community High School, delivered an emotional speech to the students. He spoke about his own experiences growing up and studying in the community and thanked the teachers who helped guide him along the way. Coach Sam told the children that hard work, honesty and discipline were key values that helped him reach where he is today, encouraging them to stay committed to their studies and their dreams.

Later in the week, another meaningful visit took place at Vura Primary School, where players and officials were warmly welcomed by students and teachers. The visit provided a chance for Hekari players to interact with the students, share their football experiences, and encourage the young learners to pursue both education and sport.

The visit also carried a personal connection for Hekari director Vonnie Kapi Natto, who attended Vura Primary School from Grade 1 to Grade 5 between 1977 and 1981. Returning to the school alongside the Hekari team brought back many memories from her early school days.

As part of the visit, the team distributed merchandise to participants, donated soccer balls to the school, and contributed SI$2,500 to support school activities. Community visits like these have become an important part of Hekari’s presence whenever the club travels across the Pacific. Beyond competing in the OFC Pro League, the club continues to build strong connections with communities and young football fans throughout the region.

With preparations now intensifying, PNG Hekari FC will soon turn their full attention to their next match against Tahiti United FC as Round 4 action continues in Honiara.