Male netball team debuts at Africa Cup

Netball Namibia has set the stage for an exciting new era, with the country hosting the 2024 Africa Nations Cup in Swakopmund from 9-14 December. This landmark event, expected to draw over 10 nations with both male and female teams, marks Namibia’s debut in the male netball arena—a significant step forward in the sport's evolution within the country. The Namibia Sports Commission (NSC) commended this development, which highlights not only Namibia’s sporting spirit but also the potential for social and economic impact.

During a recent courtesy call to the NSC, Namibia Sports Administrator Freddy Mwiya expressed his support for Netball Namibia’s achievement in securing the bid to host the tournament, praising the association's vision and dedication. Mwiya noted, “This event is more than a sporting milestone; it has the potential to uplift communities and foster development within Namibia.” The NSC reaffirmed its commitment to support federations like Netball Namibia, as they work to expand the country's sporting footprint.

This past weekend in Windhoek, Netball Namibia held trials to select players for its inaugural male netball team, offering a glimpse of the promising talent that would represent Namibia on the international stage. The team is set to make its official debut at the Africa Nations Cup in December, hosted at the MTC Dome in Swakopmund. For Netball Namibia, reviving male netball had been a long-awaited goal, and these trials brought them closer to achieving it.

Selected players from regions across Namibia have been called into the national training squad, including:

Valentino Tujendapi (Otjozondjupa)

Kotjii Kavari (Khomas)

Hannes von Wielligh (Khomas)

Conzalez Louis (Otjozondjupa)

Suratiaan Khakisi (Hardap)

Rivaldo Omeb (Erongo)

Inselly Oxurub (Otjozondjupa)

Bradley Geigub (Otjozondjupa)

Immanuel /Uirab (Kunene)

Frank Makaya (Zambezi)

Devian Goagoseb (Otjozondjupa)

Lorenzo Davids (Kharas)

Nguvitjita Tjikungu (Khomas)

Zachary Philander (Khomas)

Leonard Somseb (Oshikoto)

Telwin Tjiuongua (Erongo)

With players representing regions from Otjozondjupa to Zambezi, the squad embodies the nationwide enthusiasm surrounding the team’s formation.

Leading the national men’s team is Terry Tuaire, head coach of the Namibia Correctional Service netball team. Known for his experience and passion, Tuaire is optimistic about the potential of the male netball team. "I’m thrilled about netball in Namibia, especially on the men’s side. This initiative finally brings male players to the forefront in a sport that has traditionally focused on women,” he stated. Tuaire acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead, noting that while Namibia is considered an underdog, the team is eager to compete on home ground.

Among those selected is Zachary Philander, originally a basketball player from Khomas, who found his passion for netball after hearing about the trials. “I wanted to try out a new sport, and I’m really excited to be part of this team,” he shared. His enthusiasm reflects the fresh energy that male players are bringing to the sport, with athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds eager to prove their skills on the netball court.

The 2024 Africa Nations Cup is more than just a tournament for Namibia; it’s a statement of the nation’s dedication to inclusivity in sports. By establishing its first male team, Namibia is breaking new ground, setting an example for other nations in the region to elevate and expand netball.

As the men’s team steps onto the court for the first time in December, they’ll do so with the hopes of a nation behind them, eager to see this pioneering squad make their mark. The Africa Nations Cup could be the launchpad for a lasting legacy in male netball in Namibia, uniting athletes, supporters, and communities across the country.