Netball fans in Grootfontein are in for a treat this weekend, as the town plays host to Round 10 and 11 of the MTC Netball Namibia Premier League.
Originally scheduled to take place in Rundu, the fixtures have been relocated to Grootfontein Secondary School due to a combination of logistical and financial hurdles faced by several participating clubs.
According to Netball Namibia, the decision to shift venues was made to ease the financial burden on teams and ensure the smooth continuation of the league. Grootfontein Secondary School was selected as the alternative host venue due to its accessible location, standard-compliant netball courts, and the availability of affordable accommodation and other necessary amenities.
“The change of venue was necessary to accommodate the realities faced by clubs in terms of travel expenses and accommodation logistics,” read a statement from Netball Namibia.
As the league enters its 10th and 11th round, competition remains fierce at the top of the table. The Namibia Correctional Service (NCS) reclaimed their position at the summit following their strong performance in Round 9, held at the coast. With eight matches under their belt, NCS now leads the standings with 16 points, demonstrating consistent form and strategic gameplay.
Hot on their heels is Otjozondjupa Nampol, occupying second place with 13 points from nine matches played. In third is the Namibian Navy, also with nine matches played and 12 points secured. Close behind, Unam Ogongo sits in fourth place with 12 points, but from only eight games, keeping them in strong contention for a top-three finish as the league progresses.
At the lower end of the table, the competition is equally intense, albeit for different reasons. Afrocat Lions find themselves in 10th position with five points from nine games. Eastern Chiefs follow in 11th with four points from eight matches. Cuca Tops remains rooted at the bottom, still in search of their first win, having accumulated zero points from eight matches played. -lmupetami@nepc.com.na