Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup around the corner
The Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup, set to take place in Gobabis from 29 March to 2 April, plays a pivotal role in the development of youth sports.Supported by Nedbank Namibia as the headline sponsor, alongside the Namibian newspaper, the Namibia Football Association and Netball Namibia, this event offers a unique platform for budding athletes under the age of 20 to showcase their talent.
Former participants such as professional footballers Petrus Shitembi and Erastus Someno, attribute much of their success to the exposure gained through this competition. Shitembi, who has excelled on both national and international stages, acknowledges the Newspaper Cup for kickstarting his career. Similarly, Someno, now a Sports Officer, credits the tournament for shaping him into a notable player.
Others, like Marcel Papama, currently playing for Township Rollers Football Club in Botswana, emphasise the exposure and opportunities the Newspaper Cup provided, opening doors for recognition and advancement in their football careers.
Impact
In recent years, the inclusion of netball has broadened the tournament's impact, providing a platform for girls to showcase their talent. Rebekka Goagoses, President of Netball Namibia, highlights the positive influence of the competition on netball development and talent identification.
Cassius Moetie from the Namibian Football Association emphasises the tournament's role in fostering technical skills and holistic development among young players, aiming to produce not only skilled athletes but also well-rounded individuals.
Victor Ashikoto, Chief Operating Officer of Nedbank Namibia, reaffirmed the bank's commitment to supporting youth-focused initiatives in sports, recognizing the positive societal impact of such events.
As the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup approaches, anticipation builds for another edition of spirited competition, culminating in the final at Legare Stadium. This event stands as a testament to the power of sports in nurturing talent, instilling values, and uniting communities in Namibia.