Ileen Pegi: a trailblazer for Solomon Islands women’s football

In a groundbreaking move for Solomon Islands football, Ileen Pegi has become the first female footballer from the nation to sign with an overseas club. At 31, Pegi has joined AS Academy Féminine (ASAF) from New Caledonia, the former OFC Women’s Champions League winners.

Pegi sees this as a significant opportunity, not only for herself but for all aspiring female footballers in the Solomon Islands. “I see it as a great opportunity,” Pegi said. “As a footballer, I’ve dreamed of playing overseas for many years. So, when ASAF asked me to join their team, I said yes. It’s the pathway that all Solomon Islands football girls and women dream of—not just playing in the Solomon Islands but continuing to pursue their careers in football. This door is opening not just for me but for all future players from my country who struggle to advance their careers.”

The journey to this milestone began in February this year when Pegi was in Samoa, ready to play in the Olympic Qualifiers for the Solomon Islands women’s team. She received a message from the ASAF coach inviting her to join the team for the OFC Women’s Champions League in the Solomon Islands. Due to her International Transfer Certificate (ITC) issues, she couldn’t join them then. However, ASAF extended another offer to play with the team in New Caledonia, which she accepted. “When I was in Samoa ready for my first game, I received a message from the ASAF coach asking me to join the team for the OFC Women’s Champions League in the Solomon Islands. But due to my ITC, I wasn’t able to join them. Then they offered me another chance to play with the team in New Caledonia. I accepted their offer to move and play for them this season.”

Pegi is thrilled and proud to represent all the women and girls in the Solomon Islands. “I’m just happy and proud to represent all the women and girls in the Solomon Islands,” she expressed.

Despite the challenges of adapting to a new team and environment, Pegi remains confident. She has already spent two weeks training with the team in Honiara and is familiar with a few teammates who speak English, which will ease the communication barrier. “I know it’s going to be difficult and challenging to adapt to my new team, but I know I’ll blend in easily with them. I already spent two weeks training with the team back in Honiara. I know a few teammates who speak English, so communication shouldn’t be a problem for me. It’s going to be a little slow adapting, but I know I will fit well. It’s a learning process.”

Pegi also shares her advice for the next generation of footballers in the Solomon Islands. “Work hard and have self-discipline. Always believe in yourself despite having challenges. Everyone is unique; don’t compare yourself with others. If I can make it in my 30s, I believe the younger generation can do it as well and go beyond where I am today. Be consistent in training, obey, be humble, and work hard to achieve your dreams. Put God first in everything.”

She emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and maintaining a positive mindset. “Accept mistakes and learn from them. Always be positive and have a strong mindset that you can reach another level in your career. There are always opportunities, but it’s up to us to work hard for them.”

Ileen Pegi’s move to AS Academy Féminine marks a historic moment for Solomon Islands women’s football, inspiring many young players to follow in her footsteps and pursue their dreams on an international stage.