ATS-Zim gives Afrocat a run for their money
Volleyball
Afrocat Sports Club's inaugural indoor volleyball tournament at Deutsche Höhere Privatschule Windhoek (DHPS) saw the host club reign supreme last week, with the touring visitors ATS-Zimbabwe close on their heels.The Spike for Girls tournament, aimed to promote women’s sports and particularly volleyball, included the invited teams from The Association of Trust Schools (ATS) from Zimbabwe in the girls U16 and U20 categories.
Afrocat’s U16 team stood out and conceded no sets on their way to be crowned champions of the floating trophy and gold medals. Their final match against ATS-Zimbabwe was particularly thrilling, marked by intense rallies and competitive scores of 25-20 and 25-22.
Afrocat U16 captain Alushe Sakeus credited their victory to thorough preparation and effective teamwork. “We dedicated nearly a month preparing to play the selection from Zimbabwe. Despite not having played them before, our communication and strategic scouting paid off,” she said.
As runners-up, ATS-Zimbabwe was awarded silver medals. Team captain Yoshe Mnaba described the overall competition as a tremendous honour and privilege.
“When I noticed the pressure my teammates were under, I initiated numerous war cries and songs to help them relax and boost their confidence. We achieved the silver medal place by playing as a dedicated collective. I am confident we will return stronger next year, poised for victory,” she assured.
In third position, Christ’s Love Christian School secured the bronze medals, with Sunshine Private School in fourth place.
Under-20 category
Afrocat U20 continued the hosts’ winning streak, only losing one set (against Delta High School in the round-robin stage) on their way to the floating trophy and gold medals.
In their final match against ATS-Zimbabwe, Afrocat triumphed by two sets to nil.
Afrocat U20 captain Meriam Kandemba lauded their strong performance throughout the competition, pointing out that the team did not let the loss to Delta dampen their motivation. “We accepted it, refocused and worked on our errors to bounce back stronger.
“Teamwork was essential for us. We supported each other, even when mistakes were made and stayed positive. We maintained our consistency, especially in serving and attacking, which was crucial to our success. It was truly a great team effort, and I’m grateful for the opportunity created by the club.
“The exposure we gained from competing against teams like ATS-Zimbabwe was invaluable and highly commendable,” she said.
ATS-Zimbabwe U20 captain Chiedza Zinyangere described the level of competition during the tournament as exceptionally high, with every team putting up a skilful and dedicated fight.
“It is commendable that this tournament provides a platform for young women to showcase their talents. Finishing second provided a valuable experience for me and the team. It highlighted the specific areas that require improvement and attention in the upcoming season back home and for next year's team. I’m sure they will make it again in the final and win it!” she said.
The third position and bronze medals went to Delta High School, while DHPS finished fourth.
Tournament organiser Ishitile Aloisius said: “We are thrilled with the success of our event. We plan to make this an annual event, possibly continuing in August 2025. We extend our gratitude to OTB Namibia, in partnership with the Central Volleyball Association and Namibia Volleyball Federation, for their generous support.”
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