After two inspiring seasons with Western United – captaining them through to the 2017 OFC Champions League – Solomon Islands most-capped player Henry Fa’arodo Jnr has made the move to domestic title holders Marist FC for the Telekom S-League 2017 season.
“I know that Western United have bigger better plans for this coming season and I feel I have to give way for others to carry the club to the next level,” he said.
“As one door closes another opens and I am so grateful that Marist have so much faith in me.
“I am looking forward to this new challenge and I hope I will deliver in any way I can.”
The 34-year-old acknowledged that although the move will be an exciting endeavour, the decision to leave Western United was a difficult one – especially after their impressive OFC Champions League campaign – and expressed his gratitude to coach Commins Menapi and the team for two strong seasons.
“I would firstly like to thank Western United for supporting and assisting me since 2015. Your generosity is more than I expected,” he said.
“To Commins and the coaching staff – thank you for giving me an opportunity to be part of your team and I have learnt a lot from you.
“To the players – you guys have been great. I have so much respect for you guys and I had a good time just being around you guys. We had a good OFC Champions League campaign pushing the mighty Navy Blues to the limit. You guys should be proud of yourselves.”
Fa’arodo has built up an impressive football resume over the span of his career, playing in the Victorian Premier League with Altona Magic, winning the 2010 OFC Champions League with Papua New Guinea club Hekari United, frequently representing Solomon Islands in the national team since his debut at the 2002 OFC Nations Cup, and participating in 16 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Marist FC coach Juliano Schmeling is overjoyed to have Fa’arodo’s experience on board for the side’s next season and is looking forward to seeing other members of the team lift under Fa’arodo’s leadership.
“I think it’s very positive for the club, he will add more experience, leadership and discipline to our group,” he said.
Marist FC and Fa’arodo will have to take on his former side when they compete for two places in the 2018 OFC Champions League in the Telekom S-league, kicking off in July.