BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
For 14-year-old Lyneva Wagapu Tuza, wearing the Solomon Islands jersey is about more than football. It is a proud connection to her family, culture and roots.
Lyneva, who recently turned 14, has links to both Solomon Islands and New Zealand. Her selection for the Solomon Islands Under-16 team was a joyful and surprising moment, especially for her family and friends in New Zealand who have supported her football journey since she was young.
“They have supported me throughout my football journey, so it means a lot knowing they are behind me and cheering me on from New Zealand,” Lyneva said.
Lyneva started playing football in New Zealand at the age of five. She has experienced both football environments and noticed some differences.
In New Zealand, young players often start football at an early age and have access to many clubs and competitions. In Solomon Islands, she says football is deeply connected to the culture, with strong passion and natural talent among young players.
Her biggest challenge in Honiara has been adjusting to the hot and humid weather.
She is used to playing football in the cooler conditions of New Zealand, but is now learning to manage the heat during training sessions.
Despite the challenge, Lyneva says wearing the national jersey gives her a strong sense of identity.
“It represents my family, my culture and my roots,” she said.
For her, representing Solomon Islands is an honour and an opportunity to reconnect with the country and culture she feels strongly connected to, even while living overseas.
As she prepares for the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship, Lyneva wants to give her best, continue improving and learn from her teammates and coaches.
She also hopes the team can stay united, perform strongly and have a chance to qualify for the FIFA Under-17 Women’s World Cup.
But beyond results, she wants to enjoy the experience and create lasting memories with her teammates.
Her message to other young Solomon Islander girls is simple: believe in yourself, start early if you can, keep training and never be afraid to dream big.
“Most importantly, enjoy playing and have fun!” she said.
Lyneva’s journey shows how football can connect young people to their family, culture and country while opening new opportunities for girls to shine on the regional stage.
