The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) along with the broader football community has paid tributes to Felipe Vega-Arango, the outgoing Head Coach of the National Team. A farewell dinner was hosted in his honor, marking the end of his renewed tenure as Head Coach, which he decided not to extend further.
Vega-Arango’s journey with SIFF began in March 2017 when he was appointed Technical Director. By 2019, his exceptional contributions saw him promoted to Head Coach, a position he retained through a contract renewal in 2021. Over his seven-year involvement, he remarkably improved the National Team’s FIFA World Ranking from 188 to 132, a significant achievement in the Oceania region.
Under his leadership, the senior team secured redemption in the 2023 Melanesian Cup and clinched second place at the Pacific Games. Beyond these victories, Vega-Arango’s role in advancing the High-Performance delivery pathway within the federation has been invaluable.
SIFF President Donald Marahare lauded Vega-Arango for his dedication and impact on the sport in the Solomon Islands: “Your passion, work, and commitment will always be appreciated by football, and we want to wish you well in your future endeavors. Remember, Solomon Islands is always your home,” Marahare stated.
As he prepares to leave the Solomon Islands this week, Vega-Arango emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent. “Invest more in youth football to see Solomon football flourish. In Solomon Islands, you have to invest in the children. That is the only way,” he urged. Expressing his deep connection to the country, Vega-Arango said, “I am so sad. Words don’t describe my sadness, and it is a sad day. The Solomon Islands stole my heart.”
He extended his gratitude to the SIFF staff, coaches, players, and the broader football community for the wonderful years spent together. His departure has been met with heartfelt tributes from national players, football officials, and friends who acknowledged his significant contributions to the sport.
In honor of Vega-Arango, a farewell match was organized at the Lawson Tama Stadium. The event featured social clubs such as SIFF Titans, S-Titans, and Legals United, celebrating his legacy in a fitting manner.
As the Solomon Islands football community bids farewell to Vega-Arango, his influence and the strides he made for the sport will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
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