NATIONAL U/21 netball team coach Jones Musambani has expressed satisfaction with the players’ fitness, both mentally and physically, during the recent trials.
Last weekend, Netball Namibia (NN) conducted trials to select a team that will represent the country at the upcoming Africa World Youth Cup qualifiers scheduled for South Africa from 14-24 March.
Reflecting on the trials, coach Musambani said despite the local leagues being off-season, the players demonstrated commitment and hard work. He mentioned that the team is looking forward to the training camp scheduled for the next few weeks.
“We have been conducting trials since Friday for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers in Pretoria, South Africa.
The trials went well, and the players showed excellent mental and physical condition, contrary to our expectations. Selecting 15 best players was a tough exercise, as they all performed admirably during the trials,” he remarked.
Netball Namibia (NN) president Rebecca Goagoses also expressed satisfaction with the selected squad. She emphasised the importance of having trusted individuals to oversee the selection process to ensure fairness.
“I am pleased with the selection process. We appointed individuals with the authority to select the team for the qualifiers. I believe we have assembled a team of high quality, and as a nation, we must support them and provide them ample exposure, similar to what the senior teams receive.
This opportunity for our youth team to compete at the continental level is invaluable. With the right support, they can serve as a feeder team for our senior squad,” Goagoses commented.
Squad
Cheree Brits, Godlove Victor, Loide Kanyolo, Athiella Mbaha, Uapandera Muundjua, Marne du Toit, Aila Andreas, Elizabeth Besser, Hope Kazondovi, Rosa Gowases, Grace Matyayi, Muhimise Jaepa, Tjikarerera Uamburu, Usuta Muvangua, Desdamona Tjirera, and Megan von Liere.
Coaches
Jones Musambani – head coach
Vijanda Kamberipa – assistant coach
David Tutaleni – assistant coach
Rudolf Namaseb – strength and conditioning coach
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na