The vibrant atmosphere of Rarotonga is alive with excitement as the 2024 Cook Islands Games kick off, bringing together athletes from across the islands to compete in various sports. Among the many events, football is set to take center stage, with matches starting on Monday, October 14th. The first match features the Rarotonga Senior Women facing off against the Mitiaro Senior Women at the CIFA Complex, a much-anticipated showdown that marks the beginning of a thrilling five days of competition.
The football tournament will unfold over the course of five days, culminating in playoff matches on Thursday, October 17th, and the finals scheduled for Saturday, October 19th. The excitement is palpable as teams prepare to showcase their skills, fueled by the passion and pride of their respective islands.
The tournament features eight teams divided into two pools, creating a competitive landscape that promises to deliver memorable moments.
Pool A: Aitutaki, Mauke, Mitiaro, and Rarotonga
Pool B: Atiu, Mangaia, Manihiki, and Pukapuka
Matches will take place at both the CIFA Complex and Takitumu School Field, ensuring that fans have plenty of opportunities to cheer for their favorite teams.
As the teams gear up for their matches, the sense of island pride is evident. Each athlete is not just representing themselves but the collective spirit of their island. The Rarotonga Senior Women and Mitiaro Senior Women kick off the action at 12:00 PM, a match that promises to set the tone for the tournament. At the same time, the Mangaia Senior Men will take the field against Atiu Senior Men at Takitumu School Field, further amplifying the excitement.
Local supporters are encouraged to come down, wave their flags, and cheer passionately for their teams. The Games are more than just a sporting event; they’re a celebration of culture, community, and the relentless spirit of the Cook Islands.
With matches running daily until the finals, there’s no better time to immerse yourself in the local sporting culture. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or just looking for a fun day out, the Cook Islands Games offer an excellent opportunity to witness the incredible talent and dedication of the athletes.
So gather your friends and family, head down to the fields, and support your island teams as they compete for glory and honor in the 2024 Cook Islands Games!
Match Fixtures:
Match Day 1 – Mon 14 Oct
CIFA Complex
Senior Women @12pm; Rarotonga vs Mitiaro
Senior Men @1:20pm; Rarotonga vs Aitutaki
Senior Women @ 2:40pm; Aitutaki vs Mauke
Takitumu Field
Senior Men @12pm; Mangaia vs Atiu
Senior Women @1:20pm; Mangaia vs Atiu
Senior Men @ 2:40pm; Manihiki vs Pukapuka
Match Day 2 – Tue 15 Oct
CIFA Complex
Senior Men@12pm; Mangaia vs Manihiki
Senior Women @1:20pm; Mangaia vs Manihiki
Senior Men @ 2:40pm; Atiu vs Pukapuka
Takitumu Field
Senior Women @12pm; Rarotonga vs Aitutaki
Senior Men@1:20pm; Rarotonga vs Mauke
Senior Women @ 2:40pm; Mitiaro vs Mauke
Match Day 3 – Wed 16 Oct
CIFA Complex
Senior Women @12pm; Rarotonga vs Mauke
Senior Men @1:20pm; Aitutaki vs Mauke
Senior Women @ 2:40pm; Mitiaro vs Aitutaki
Takitumu Field
Senior Men @12pm; Mangaia vs Pukapuka
Senior Women @1:20pm; Atiu vs Manihiki
Senior Men @ 2:40pm; Atiu vs Manihiki
Match Day 4 – Thu 17 Oct
CIFA Complex
Playoff / Semi-Finals @12pm-4pm
Match Day 5 – Sat 19 Oct
CIFA Complex
Finals for 3rd & 4th Placing and 1st & 2nd Placing @9am – 1pm
CIFA Media
