Three girls' teams to compete in Boksburg

Netball
Abigail Munalula
  • 1 Day Ago 30 June 2025
The Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU) held an official send-off ceremony for its national under-12, U13 and U15 girls’ netball teams as they departed for the All Ages Development Tournament in Boksburg, South Africa, taking place from 29 June to 2 July.

The Namibian teams, selected from across the country, will face top regional teams from South Africa in what promises to be a valuable developmental experience.

Speaking at the ceremony, NSSU administrator Allan Kake emphasised the importance of attitude, discipline and national pride. He encouraged the players to embrace the opportunity and assured them they would be warmly welcomed back, regardless of the results.

“You are in a very fortunate position – you are going to represent your country,” Kake said. “We expect the right attitude, conduct, and behaviour from you. You are ambassadors for all of us staying behind.”

Kake extended heartfelt thanks to the parents and sponsors who made the trip possible. “Some of you dug deep into your pockets to make this dream come true. We are truly grateful,” he said. He acknowledged key sponsors such as Indongo Toyota, Kalahari Wire Products, Nictus and Windhoek Gymnasium, among others.

Windhoek Gymnasium played a vital role in hosting the players for training and accommodation ahead of the trip.

Netball Namibia secretary-general, Sophia Simon, encouraged the players to compete with pride and purpose. “You carry the hopes of the nation. Compete bravely and return home strongly,” she said.

• NSSU U12 team: Kara de Jager (Hardap), Mirjam Indongo (Khomas), Roché Tromp (Khomas), Shayla Stumpfe (Erongo), Salizca Nieuwoudt (Hardap), Eldene Gouws (Kunene), Claire Leah Bezuidenhout (Erongo), Nina van Deventer (Erongo), Chazé Eiman (Erongo), Elizabeth Andima (Erongo). Coach: Wakashala Hambeleleni; team manager: Hilma Nghifindaka.

• NSSU U13 team: Marli Jacobs (Khomas), Diané van Zyl (Erongo), Utjitirauina Maiseuanaani (Omaheke), Uzuvira Katjivena (Khomas), Kyla Routh (Erongo), Anke Nel (Khomas), Roné Horn (Khomas), Sylvia Mafita (Erongo), Mirjam Hauwanga (Otjozondjupa), Kakuenje Keereko (Omaheke). Coach: Yolande van Zyl (Otjozondjupa); team manager: Tjipetekere Zakatjituavi (Omaheke).

• NSSU U15 team: Shani-Reece Buys, Kim Mbaha, Molane Kaereho, Alkira Orange, Zoe Husselmann (all from Khomas), Kira Pedro (Hardap), Ané Oosthuizen and Chanelll Borman (Oshikoto), Kian-dré Farmer (Otjozndjupa), Jakuaterua Hoveka (Omaheke). Coach: Elsandra Skrywer; team manager: Loretha Haradoes.