Zebalt Ngaruka
As the festive season approaches, the Namibia Rural Sports Development Federation (NRSDF) has urged its members to start preparing for the highly-anticipated annual tournaments that will take place across various rural areas of the country in December.
Vice president of the NRSDF, Ngatuuane Hange, emphasised the importance of early preparations to ensure the running of smooth and successful events.
In an interview with New Era Sport, he said these tournaments have become a vital part of rural sports culture, and that preparations should start well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
“We’ve established a clear protocol, and it’s crucial that all members stick to it.”
These festive season tournaments are not just about the games; they serve as key platforms for rural sports associations to identify and select top players, who would represent their localities at various competitions. Popular tournaments such as the Omaheke Top Two, All Stars, and Regional Tournaments all originated from this initiative, underscoring the importance of proper planning and organisation.
“These December tournaments are like the ‘World Cup of the villages,’” Hange stated. “It’s a chance for many young players to showcase their talent and potentially take their skills to the next level.”
Beyond generating excitement through local competition, these tournaments also attract scouts from various leagues across the country to watch talented players from rural areas playing, and to help them break into the highest levels of national football.
Hange also reminded sports associations to stick to the competition rules to avoid unnecessary delays, which can disrupt the flow of events. He expressed concern about the changing of tournament fees at the last minute, which could kill the morale of participating teams.
“We’re worried about the fluctuations in tournament fees, which often change in the final days. This trend is discouragin,g and kills the morale of teams. We must stop that,” he said.
In addition to the technical and logistical preparation, Hange highlighted the need for proper security at these tournaments. He urged local sport associations to begin requesting the presence of the Namibia Police Force at their competitions to ensure the safety of both players and spectators.
“We’ve had incidents of misbehaviour in past competitions when there was no police presence, and that is something we want to avoid,” he added.
Hange also advised organisers to coordinate with local health facilities for the provision of first aid or medical personnel, as injuries are common at any sporting event. “We have many young, qualified nurses who can assist in these situations, so it’s important to make sure medical help is available,” he added.
He reminded members of the NRSDF that the long-awaited elective congress will be held on 25 November in Windhoek, where a new leadership will be elected to oversee the federation’s activities. He urged all stakeholders to attend the congress, and urged veteran players to contribute their expertise.
“The knowledge and experience of former players is invaluable,” said Hange. “They should always be behind the scenes, advising and guiding when needed.”
He also highlighted the importance of voting in the national elections set for 27 November, reminding all eligible voters in the sport associations under the NRSDF to vote.
“We need everyone to participate and vote. It’s important for the future of our sports,” Hange noted.
With these crucial preparations underway, the stage is set for exciting and well-organised festive season rural tournaments. Whether you’re a player, a coach or a spectator, this year’s events promise to be an unforgettable showcase of talent, determination and community spirit. – zngaruka@yahoo.com