On Saturday, Netball Namibia (NN) conducted trials at the Wanderers Netball Courts to select 15 male players for the highly, anticipated Africa Cup, set to take place at the Dome in Swakopmund from 9 to 14 December. 

This event marks a significant step for the sport in Namibia as it aims to showcase not only local talent, but foster greater competition on the continental stage.

The Africa Cup is expected to attract close to 10 countries, featuring both male and female teams eager to compete for the title. 

Rebekka Goagoses, the president of NN, shared that while the exact number of participating teams will be confirmed this week, invitations have already been sent out to various nations. 

“We are currently waiting for confirmation through Africa Netball regarding which countries will be competing,” she stated, emphasising the importance of this tournament in promoting the sport across Africa.

In 2019, Namibia successfully hosted the Africa Cup, which was notably dominated by the South African female team. 

That year, no male teams were participating. However, this tournament represents a new era for Namibian netball as they comply with the requirements set forth by World Netball. 

Member countries are now expected to field active male teams, reflecting a broader push to elevate the status of netball, and potentially include it in future Olympic Games.

The inclusion of male teams in the Africa Cup not only aligns with these global standards, but also aims to inspire a new generation of male players in Namibia. 

The trials held at Wanderers provided an opportunity for local talent to demonstrate their skills, and earn a place on the national team. 

This selection process highlights the growing recognition of men’s netball in a traditionally female-dominated sport, illustrating the sport’s evolving landscape in Namibia and beyond.

With the tournament just weeks away, the selected players will have the opportunity to train intensively as they prepare to represent Namibia. 

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na