A regular for Team Wellington in the OFC Champions League and New Zealand’s ASB premiership in recent years, Fa’arodo also played extensively in Australia, including a stint with the Perth Glory in the first season of the A-League in 2005-06.
Ahead of starting his new role with the SIFF the 33-year-old says he will be looking to re-energise football in his homeland.
“I hope to bring to the role a new positive look at the development of football in the Solomon Islands. Hopefully I can bring light to football after are few years in the wilderness,” he says.
“At the same time I know, and I would like people in the Solomon Islands to know, that it will take time and lots of effort to get where we want to be.
“I was approached by a few people to take up this job, but my decision is based more on my love of football.
“Now once my playing career is over I can still be involved in developing and guiding the future of Solomon Islands football.”
Last month Fa’arodo participated in a FIFA Senior Coaching Course alongside 27 other local Solomon Islands coaches, which he hopes will help in his transition into the new role.
Among other tasks Fa’arodo says he will be responsible for setting up a framework for the organisation which will cater for the development of futsal, beach soccer and football.
He believes the experiences gained from living and playing in New Zealand and Australia will be of benefit to the game in the Solomon Islands.
“As a footballer in New Zealand I was taught to be responsible, to understand the game and my role as a player,” he says.
“You learn a lot about the impact you as a player can have on the people and organisation around you.”
Team Wellington coach Matt Calcott was sorry to see Fa’arodo leave on the eve of the ASB Premiership, but felt it was the right move.
“Henry has been very influential for Team Wellington since arriving here and his contribution towards the on-field success can not be forgotten,” Calcott says.
“We are sorry to see Henry leave but we understand that the role with the Solomon Islands Football Federation was a great opportunity and will prove very beneficial for his career, family and football.”
Meanwhile Fa’arodo says he is unsure if he will continue his playing career in the Solomon Islands at this stage.
“I would love to keep playing depending on the situation around work and playing,” he says.
“If I am going to play then I have been approached by Western United FC, the Solomon Islands club champions from last year.”
For more on Solomon Islands football visit www.siff.com.sb.

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