As anticipation mounts for the upcoming Nedbank/Namibian Newspaper Cup slated to be held in Gobabis, Omaheke Region, from March 29th to April 1st, 2024, excitement and nerves intertwine for the participating teams, especially for last year’s champions who find themselves grouped in what many are dubbing as the “Group of Death.”
The 22nd edition of the Nedbank/Namibian Newspaper Cup, in collaboration with The Namibian Newspaper, promises to showcase extraordinary talent in both youth Under20 football and netball competitions. This event, a cornerstone in Namibian sports, has been a longstanding platform for young athletes to exhibit their prowess on the field and court, fostering camaraderie among all 14 regional football and netball teams.
Honorable Emma Kantema-Gaomas, the Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth, and National Service, emphasized the significance of the competition, portraying it not just as a sporting event but as a unifying force for the nation. In light of recent events, notably the untimely passing of the late patron of the NFA, Dr. Hage G. Geingob, the tournament holds even greater significance, echoing the late president’s belief that a nation’s greatness lies in its treatment of its weakest members.
Governor Nganate of the Omaheke Region reaffirmed the commitment of the host region to deliver a spectacular 22nd edition of the Nedbank / Namibian Newspaper Cup. This pledge underscores the collaborative effort involving various stakeholders, including the NFA, Netball Namibia, Nedbank, The Namibian Newspaper, the Ministry of Sport, Youth & National Service, and Coca-Cola.
Martha Murorua, Managing Director of Nedbank Namibia, expressed the bank’s profound commitment to the tournament, highlighting its transformative impact beyond the realm of sports. The investment in the Nedbank / Namibian Newspaper Cup symbolizes the company’s dedication to initiatives aligned with its values.
Tangeni Amupadhi, Editor-in-Chief of The Namibian Newspaper, reminisced about the journey of the Newspaper Cup since its inception in 2000, emphasizing its resilience despite challenges, including disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The inclusion of netball in the competition, facilitated by Nedbank Namibia’s sponsorship, has further enriched the event, fostering talent development and enhancing the sport’s profile.
Netball Namibia President, Rebekka Goagoses, hailed the competition as instrumental in nurturing talent and developing umpires to international standards. The tournament serves as a catalyst for identifying and nurturing promising athletes, contributing significantly to the growth of netball in Namibia.
NFA Vice President, Jakobus Markus, expressed pride in the association’s involvement in the competition, recognizing the invaluable support of sponsors in amplifying its impact. The partnership between NFA, sponsors, and stakeholders ensures mutual benefits, amplifying the tournament’s reach and significance.
As the stage is set and teams brace themselves for the challenge ahead, the groupings for both football and netball promise intense competition. With last year’s champions finding themselves in the formidable “Group of Death,” the stakes are higher than ever as teams vie for supremacy on the field and court. As the countdown begins, anticipation mounts for what promises to be a thrilling showcase of youth talent and sportsmanship at the Nedbank / Namibian Newspaper Cup 2024.
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