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Pacific Islands Embrace Growing Floorball Sport

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 12th 2026 at 14:56 GMT by rnz

A Growing Sport in the Pacific

Floorball, often described as a faster, less physically demanding alternative to ice hockey, has steadily gained traction across the Pacific Islands in recent years. While not as widely known as sports like rugby or football, floorball's accessibility and relatively low equipment costs have contributed to its growing appeal. The Oceania qualifying tournament represents a key milestone in the sport's regional development, providing a platform for players and fans alike to connect and celebrate their passion.

The tournament's significance extends beyond just securing a World Championship berth. It serves as a powerful symbol of the increasing commitment to floorball across New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji. Organizers hope the increased visibility will stimulate grassroots growth, attracting new players, coaches, and volunteers to the sport at all levels.

The Contenders: New Zealand, Australia, and Fiji

While the exact team compositions are still being finalized, the competition is expected to be fierce. New Zealand, as the host nation, will likely be considered a strong contender, benefiting from familiar playing conditions and home-crowd support. They've invested in developing floorball infrastructure and training programs in recent years, aiming to elevate the national team's performance.

Australia, consistently demonstrating strong athletic talent across various sports, poses a serious threat. They have been actively expanding their floorball leagues and clubs, drawing players from diverse sporting backgrounds. The Australian team will be looking to capitalize on their depth of talent and strategic game play.

Fiji, while perhaps newer to the floorball scene compared to New Zealand and Australia, is known for its spirited and passionate athletes. The Fijian team's commitment and determination, coupled with their inherent athleticism, will make them a challenging opponent. Their participation underlines the expanding reach of floorball within the broader Pacific community.

More Than Just a Game: A Wider Audience and Regional Impact

According to Floorball New Zealand (FHNZ) president Ross Taylor, hosting the Oceania qualifying tournament is a "significant event" that transcends the immediate competition. "It's great to be hosting this tournament in Wellington, and to showcase floorball to a wider audience," Taylor stated. This sentiment underscores the broader objectives of the event: to increase the sport's visibility, inspire participation, and foster a stronger sense of community among Pacific floorball enthusiasts.

The tournament offers a chance for New Zealand to demonstrate its dedication to the sport's development and to solidify its role as a regional leader in floorball. It's an opportunity to attract sponsors, garner media attention, and ultimately, contribute to the long-term sustainability of floorball in New Zealand and across the Pacific. The anticipated attention and participation from the Pacific floorball community highlight the growing recognition of floorball as a dynamic and engaging sport.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Floorball World Championship

The stakes are undeniably high for the teams competing in Wellington. The winner of the Oceania qualifying tournament will earn a coveted spot at the prestigious 2026 Floorball World Championship, providing a platform to compete against the best floorball teams from around the globe. The world will be watching to see which nation emerges victorious from this crucial qualifying round and represents Oceania on the international stage.