OFC Pro League teams take football beyond the field in PNG capital

Football’s newest professional competition, the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Pro League, in the Pacific is leaving its mark off the pitch as well as on it.

This week, players from across the region took part in school and community visits, highlighting the role football can play in education, inclusion, and social responsibility.

Four OFC Pro League teams - Solomon Islands FC, Tahiti United, South Island United, and Vanuatu United FC - took part in a series of community visits across Papua New Guinea’s capital on Thursday.

The visits were organised as part of the Pro League’s wider commitment to community engagement, using football as a way to connect with young people and local groups beyond match day.

Solomon Islands FC and Tahiti United visited Wardstrip Demonstration Primary School, the largest primary school in Papua New Guinea, which caters for more than 3500 students.

Players spent time with Grade 5 classes, taking part in football drills, skills demonstrations and interactive activities.

Players from visiting OFC Pro League teams take part in community outreach in Port Moresby, reinforcing football’s role in inclusion and social responsibility beyond the pitch. Photo/OFC

For many students, it was their first opportunity to meet elite players in person. The sessions created a lively and positive atmosphere, with children encouraged to take part, ask questions and learn through play.

South Island United continued the outreach by visiting Cheshire Homes Disability, reinforcing the importance of inclusion and community support for people living with disabilities.

Players spent time engaging with residents and staff, underlining that football is a space where everyone belongs.

Vanuatu United FC visited Carr Memorial Adventist School, where players entertained students with juggling displays before joining a friendly football match against the school team.

The visit allowed students to interact directly with players and experience the game in a relaxed and supportive setting.

Across all visits, the focus was on connection rather than competition. Players used football as a shared language to promote teamwork, discipline and healthy lifestyles, while also recognising the role sport can play in building confidence and community pride.

The OFC says community visits are a key part of the Pro League’s vision. Alongside raising football standards in the region, the competition aims to strengthen relationships with Pacific communities that support the game.

The OFC plans to continue including school and community engagement in future Pro League rounds, with similar visits scheduled in the Solomon Islands and Fiji.

By taking football into classrooms and community spaces, organisers hope the Pro League can leave a lasting legacy - one that reflects Pacific values of inclusion, respect, and collective responsibility.