Brazilian Airton Andrioli wasted no time since he arrived to take up the National coach position which has been vacant for some time by going straight into business.
He had his first session with the boys on Thursday last week – an hour after he arrived in Honiara.
His arrival and appointment ended months of speculation about his engagement for country’s top coaching job.
He told local journalists who met him on his arrival that he would like to go straight into business.
His immediate task was to cut the team down to the final 20 players and he was able to do that after seeing the players play in two sessions. Caretaker coach Patrick Miniti assisted him to identify the final team.
Besides the national Under 20, the Brazilian’s other assignments will be to prepare the national Under 17 for the OFC qualifying tournament in Tahiti in March 2007 and the senior national team participation in the Pacific Games in Samoa.
Andrioli has always been SIFF’s top choice and he will be on a one-year contract renewable.
With more regional tournaments next year, his engagement will boost Solomon Islands chances to qualify in the various competitions.