The 2024 Rarotonga Football Season which is set to kick off in three weeks is gearing up to be an exciting and competitive event.

As the six Premier Men’s teams prepare for the upcoming season, anticipation is at an all-time high.

Each team brings its unique flair, history, and passion to the field.

CIFA Media takes an in-depth look into the preparations and expectations of the Premier Men’s teams as they get ready to kick off the season in three weeks.

Tupapa Maraerenga FC

Tupapa Maraerenga FC, a team with a storied legacy and dominance in the Rarotonga football scene, is focused on maintaining its winning tradition while nurturing young talent.

Head coach Dave Milanovich outlined their primary goal: “Our main goal is to win the league and knockouts.”

He also emphasised their preparation strategy.

“We are working on principles of attack and defence to create a cohesive team where every player knows their role. It is crucial that we maintain our tactical discipline and unity on the field.”

Key players to watch include Grover Harmon, Paavo Mustonen and Sunai Joseph, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s campaign alongside promising talents Shane Tuteru, Tuffy Tuakana and John Noovao.

Puaikura FC

The side renowned for producing skilled players, aims to make a significant impact this season.

The team is integrating experienced players such as Dwayne Tiputoa, Jarves Aperau and Paul-Luiz Van Eijk with promising newcomers like Tamatoa Matutu, Oscar Wichman and Nia Remuera to create a competitive squad.

Puaikura is dedicated to fostering team spirit and motivating players to perform at their best, leveraging their blend of youth and experience to challenge for top spots.

Nikao Sokattak FC

The side is known for their tactical prowess and solid team chemistry, is determined to reclaim the top spot this year.

Head coach Alex Napa emphasised the need to rebuild the senior team after losing some key players to other opportunities and youth education overseas.

“Our expectations are to consolidate and rebuild the senior team,” he said.

Napa stressed the importance of adapting quickly with incoming players and maintaining consistency.

“It’s always difficult to improve performance with critical pieces missing, so we’ll focus on consistency first and try to be competitive.”

Team chemistry is a major focus for Napa, who described it as “the glue that makes our other characteristics work together”.

He added that good chemistry improves understanding and coordination, making the team more cohesive from goalkeeper to front.

This approach, along with a focus on physical preparation, is seen as crucial to their success.

With key players like Tamaiva Mateariki and Rangi Moore anchoring the defence, Nikao Sokattak aims to excel with their cohesive play.

Avatiu FC

Avatiu FC is eager to showcase their talents and climb the ranks.

Head coach Terry Piri outlined their primary objectives: “Our primary goal is to integrate our U18 players into the men's team and improve our position from last year.”

Piri is focused on blending young players with experienced ones, filling vacant spots in the men’s team with talented U18 players while keeping the core experienced players in key positions.

Addressing areas for improvement from last season, he emphasised the importance of player attendance and commitment to training.

“Above all, we must ensure consistent attendance at training sessions,” he asserted.

Piri believes that a strong commitment to training ethics is essential for the team’s advancement and success this season.

Avatiu FC aims to integrate into the team the experience of Tini Maruaiti with the versatile talents of Tione Nand and Christpher Pita to face this season’s challenges.

Titikaveka FC

Known for their resilience, Titikaveka FC is gearing up for the new season with renewed vigour and strategic planning.

This season their focus is on building a squad that is competitive and surprise their opponents.

Key players Teariki Piri, Bill Tangapiri and Ioane Moore lead the charge alongside up-and-coming players Temarii Jubilee and Eddie Matenga, emphasising motivation and fostering a determined mindset within the team. Teamwork, discipline and utilising each player’s strengths are pivotal to their approach.

Matavera FC

The side is looking to make a significant mark this season with a renewed sense of purpose and determination.

Head coach Ronnie Sakai highlighted their main objective: “Our main objective is to build on the club’s previous achievements and aim to qualify for the knockout stages.”

Sakai, a new member of the club, is focusing on regular training sessions and organising friendly matches with other clubs as part of their preparation.

“These activities are essential for me to assess our players, plan effective training sessions, and improve our soccer skills while aligning with our preferred style of play,” he explained.

Sakai aims to create an organised unit, drawing on the experience of Siaosi Kaufononga, George Ellis and Edward Brogan, to compete at the highest level.

As the 2024 Rarotonga Football Season approaches, Premier Men’s teams are gearing up and ready for the challenges ahead.

Football enthusiast can look forward to thrilling and competitive matches, and the enduring spirit of competition that defines football in the Cook Islands.

The upcoming season promises to be a showcase of talent, strategy and passion as each team strives to achieve their goals.

• CIFA Media