Hilma Nalupe

Netball Namibia hosted a welcome-back lunch for the Debmarine Desert Jewels at Butcher’s Block yesterday, celebrating the team’s triumphant return from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where they were crowned champions of the UAE Netball Cup.

The event brought together players, officials and partners to reflect on the team’s success and the power of shared commitment.

Speaking at the lunch, head coach Julene Meyer said the team was honoured to be associated with Debmarine Namibia.

“We had a wonderful tournament in Dubai and are now waiting for the world rankings to be updated. We believe we’ll be high up. It’s a big process to move up in the rankings, but we could not have done it without the financial backing of Debmarine. The players are setting the tone for those coming after them,” she said

Chief administrator of the Namibia Sports Commission Freddy Simataa Mwiya recalled how Meyer had confidently told him before the tournament that her team would do wonders – and they did just that.

“I watched the final, and it was very impressive. Team sports are hard to win,” he said, while also urging the nation to show stronger support.

“The turnout at the airport was low. Our athletes need to feel the nation behind them,” Mwiya said.

Debmarine Namibia CEO Willy Martens praised the Desert Jewels for once again flying the Namibian flag high.

“Namibia does not just participate. 

They go out there and shine,” he said.

Netball Namibia president Juanita Witbeen expressed gratitude to Debmarine for standing by the team since 2017.

“The Jewels were once ranked 28th in the world and then moved to 19th. They are now set to be ranked 18th. This progress is testament to Debmarine’s support and the team’s hard work,” she said.

The event marked a proud moment for Namibian netball and a celebration of partnership, perseverance and sporting excellence. 

-hilmanalupe@gmail.com