The 2017 Women’s Football tournament at the Pacific Mini Games marked an important milestone as the first edition of an international women’s football competition held within this regional multi-sport event. Organized under the authority of the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), the tournament was designed to provide greater opportunities for female footballers from across the Pacific region to compete at an international level.
Held as part of the broader 2017 Pacific Mini Games, the competition brought together national teams made up of players representing Pacific island nations. These games are known for promoting regional unity and development through sport, and the inclusion of women’s football for the first time reflected a growing commitment to gender equality and the expansion of women’s participation in football across Oceania.
The tournament served multiple purposes. Beyond determining a champion, it acted as a platform for developing talent, raising the standard of women’s football, and increasing visibility for the sport in smaller nations where resources and opportunities can be limited. For many players, it was a rare chance to experience structured international competition, gain exposure, and represent their countries on a regional stage.
Matches were played in a competitive yet celebratory atmosphere, with teams showcasing a mix of emerging talent and experienced players. The format allowed nations to test their abilities, build team cohesion, and learn from different playing styles across the region. It also helped national associations identify areas for improvement and investment in women’s football programs.
Overall, the 2017 edition was a landmark event for women’s football in the Pacific. By establishing a dedicated tournament within the Pacific Mini Games, it laid the foundation for future competitions and contributed to the long-term growth of the sport. The event not only highlighted the passion and potential of female athletes in Oceania but also reinforced the importance of continued support and development for women’s football at all levels.
Venues
Venue 1 - Port VilaVenue 2 - Port VilaPort Vila Municipal StadiumKorman StadiumCapacity:5,000Capacity:10,000
Participating teams
Four teams participated in the tournament.
Squads
Officials A total of 6 Referees and 8 Assistants were selected for the tournament.
RefereeAssistants Robinson Banga (Vanuatu) Mahit Chilia (Vanuatu) Salesh Chand (Fiji) Jeremy Garae (Vanuatu) Joel Hopken (Vanuatu) Noah Kusunan (Papua New Guinea) Nelson Sogo (Solomon Islands) Stephanie Minan (Papua New Guinea) George Time (Solomon Islands) Avinesh Narayan (Fiji) David Yareboinen (Papua New Guinea) Hilmon Sese (Vanuatu) Stephen Seniga (Solomon Islands) Jeffery Solodia (Solomon Islands)
Group stage
Bronze Medal
Gold Medal
Goalscorers
References