NSSU U13 team heads to Craven Week

Schools rugby
The young Namibians will open their campaign against Zimbabwe on Monday.
Tony Brims
  • 9 Hours Ago
John Heynes, CEO of the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU), delivered a motivational send-off speech at Hage Geingob Stadium, as the Namibia Schools Sports Union (NSSU) Under-13 team prepared to depart for the prestigious Craven Week rugby tournament.

The Namibians, under captain and nr 8 Vitjitua Uapingene, are due to depart to East London on Saturday, with their opening match on Monday aganst Zimbabwe U13 (kick-off 13:25).

The send-off, attended by NSSU members, coaches and parents, was a testament to the dedication of the selected players.

Heynes highlighted the significance of their journey.

"This momentous moment marks more than just a participation in a tournament," he stated, "it is a celebration of your commitment, discipline, and passion for the game of rugby."

He emphasised that each player had "worked tirelessly to earn your place on this team" and would now stand as "young ambassadors of Namibia, carrying the hopes and pride of your communities and schools".

“Wear the Namibian colours with pride, play with courage, compete with humility and above all, remember that you are not only there to win, but also to learn, grow and enjoy the incredible experience.

“These moments will shape your journey in sports and in life."

Heynes extended his gratitude to the crucial support systems behind the team. He thanked the coaching and management team for their leadership, acknowledging that their role in "guiding them with integrity and care will leave a lasting legacy far beyond the touchline."

The Namibian selection:

1 Natangwe Shapumba (Whk Gymnasium), 2 Gert Burger (Whk Gymnasium), 3 Benjamin Coetzee (Whk Gymnasium), 4 Henco Fourie (Whk Gymnasium), 5 Michael Mackenzie (Whk Affies), 6 Mc-Hendry Pieters (Roots Gymnasium), 7 Michael Swart (Whk Affies), 8 Vitjitua Uapingene (captain, Whk Gymnasium), 9 Francois Siepker (Whk Affies), 10 Federico Gaoab (Roots Gymnasium), 11 Dehan Rover (Whk Affies), 12 Liam Van Rooyen (Whk Gymnasium), 13 Lafrens Engelbrecht (Roots Gymnasium), 14 Charley Mayova (Wilhelm Nortier PS), 15 Gillmer Horn (Whk Affies), 16 Ehan Kruger (Roots Gymnasium), 17 Joshua Isaacs (Roots Gymnasium), 18 Juan Louw (Parkies), 19 Chinelo Körner (St. Joseph’s), 20 Gently Tjiveza (Wilhelm Nortier PS), 21 Emil Gresse (Whk Gymnasium), 22 Chad van Wyk (Whk Gymnasium), 23 Omar van Wyk (Roots Gymnasium).

Head coach: Brian Titus (St. Joseph’s), assistant coach: JT Basson (Whk Gymnasium); team manager: Ernest Groenewald (Orban).