SIFF Appoints Daniel Barrett as Head Coach of Women’s National Football Team

By Crofton Utukana

The Solomon Islands Football Federation (SIFF) has announced the appointment of Australian coach Daniel Barrett as the new head coach of the national women’s football team.

Barrett replaces former head coach Batram Suri, whose contract expired earlier this year.

The appointment was officially announced by SIFF Chief Executive Officer Leonard Paia during a press conference held this morning at the SIFF headquarters in East Honiara.

Barrett will lead the women’s team as they prepare for the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup in Papua New Guinea next month, and the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania qualifiers scheduled to take place in Honiara in February 2026.

Paia confirmed that Barrett’s initial contract is for six months, specifically to oversee preparations for the World Cup qualifiers.
“Barrett’s contract is for six months, but it will remain open for negotiation based on the national team’s progress in the World Cup qualifiers,” Paia stated.

The newly appointed coach expressed his enthusiasm about taking on the role.

“I feel very honoured and privileged to take charge of this national team. It’s a region I know very well, and in women’s football, I believe this is the most exciting team we have in the region,” Barrett said.

“To lead this team is a massive honour, and I want everyone in the Solomon Islands to know that I will do everything I can to help this team achieve its goals.”

Barrett added that he is looking forward to the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup, as it will give him the opportunity to assess his players in a live setting and gain valuable insight into their upcoming opponents for the World Cup qualifiers.

“This tournament will be a great opportunity for me to see the team in action and develop a better understanding of both our strengths and the level of competition we’ll face,” he said.

SIBC Sports understands that Coach Barrett held his first training session with the national women’s team on Friday after arriving in Honiara.

SIFF Technical Director Moses Toata confirmed that Daniel Barrett was selected as the successful candidate for the women’s national team head coach position after an extensive and competitive recruitment process.

“The position attracted strong interest from coaches across Europe, South America, Australia, and New Zealand,” Toata said.
“Six candidates were shortlisted, but two female applicants later withdrew, leaving four finalists.”

He explained that the selection panel carefully evaluated each candidate based on their coaching experience, qualifications, and familiarity with football in the Oceania region.

“After interviewing the final four candidates, we reached a consensus agreement that Daniel Barrett was the best fit for the role. His extensive experience and the qualities he brings to the team made him stand out,’’ he added.

Toata also highlighted that Barrett has previously worked with A-League clubs including Sydney FC, Western Sydney Wanderers and Central Coast Mariners, where he served as Technical Director for their women’s football program.

ENDS//