The Cook Islands football teams proudly departed for the Solomon Islands on Tuesday morning, gearing up to represent their country at the 2023 Pacific Games.

A total of 33 players and team officials boarded the plane, accompanied by fellow national athletes representing the Cook Islands in various sports. These teams have been hard at work training since early this year, showing immense dedication while participating in the Rarotonga Football Season.

The national teams boast an impressive 47 members, comprising 33 players from the Cook Islands, four from Australia, nine from New Zealand and one from the Netherlands. As these talented players set off on their journey, they were met with fanfare and well-wishes from Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA), acting president Moeroa Tamangaro, staff members of CIFA, family members and loved ones.

Before the team made their way to the gate, Tamangaro addressed the team and offered words of encouragement and heartfelt wishes for a successful tournament. This was followed by a prayer for the teams’ safe journeys.

Leading these impressive teams are national women's coach Tuka Tisam and national men's coach Alan Taylor. Both coaches are brimming with excitement for the upcoming matches,

The women's team is set to play three matches in the group stage The first game will pit them against New Caledonia on Thursday, November 16 at 4pm (Cook Islands time). Should they prevail in these initial battles, they face a strong likelihood of advancing to the eagerly awaited semi-finals.

The men's team is slated to kick off their first match on Monday, November 20 at 4pm against Tonga. Following this contest, they will proceed to face New Caledonia on Thursday, November 23 at 4pm in their second exciting group match.

CIFA is working closely with Vaka TV to ensure live streaming of all football matches within the Cook Islands.

• CIFA Media