Para-athlete Jerome Rooi, Namibia’s fast-rising para-triathlon sensation, closed off the 2025 Namibia Annual Sport Awards on a historic note after being crowned Sports Star of the Year.

Ranked 9th in the world in para-triathlon and steadily becoming one of Namibia’s most inspirational athletes, Rooi’s journey is one of discipline and remarkable growth.

Fresh from his career-defining moment, the New Era Sport Desk caught up with Rooi to talk about his journey, his season, and what lies ahead.

Please tell readers about yourself, your background, schooling, siblings and what you enjoy beyond sport.

I was born in Otjiwarongo but raised in Rehoboth. I come from a big, loving family: four siblings: two brothers (one older, one younger) and two sisters.

I attended Origo Primary School, and it was during my primary school years that I had the bike accident, which eventually led to the amputation of my left leg in 2017. Outside of sport, my interests are wide. I love exploring new sport codes, making music and beats, diving into anything IT-related, and of course, playing video games.

The Sport Star of the Year Award recognises excellence at the highest level. What does this recognition mean to you personally and professionally?

It still feels unreal. Personally, winning such a prestigious award is huge. I am genuinely surprised and proud. To be called the Sports Star of the Year carries weight, and being recognised in this way, especially since it’s my first major award, is incredibly special.

Professionally, it puts me among the elite athletes who represent Namibia internationally. As a full-time triathlete, this honour motivates me to continue pushing and making my country proud.

Looking back at your season, which moment stands out as the turning point in your journey?

This season has been unbelievable. My competitors now know my name and recognise me as a serious contender. I even have a friendly rival who pushes me every time we race.

The real turning point came when I ranked 11th globally. That moment made me lock in and realise the top 10 was within reach. I told myself that I wasn’t here to chase others. I was here to be a threat for first place.

Every athlete faces challenges. What was the biggest obstacle you had to overcome this year?

Honestly, I didn’t have major obstacles this year, and that is a credit to my club and my coach. My schedule was full, training, recovery, everything structured. I had meals, transport, and support. My coach drove me to practice, kept me on track, and created an environment where nothing hindered my progress.

Many athletes struggle with consistency. What habits or routines helped you maintain high performance levels? 

If you love what you do, training becomes easier. My coach updates my training schedule daily based on how I feel and what the day requires. Discipline is key; sleeping early, sticking to the plan, and even quitting TikTok for a while helped. As for the training methods we use, well, that’s confidential, something only my coach and I know.

Namibia is home to incredible athletes. Who in the local sports fraternity inspires you most?

Ananias Shikongo. He’s a beast. Watching him break an African record was incredible, and it inspires me to push myself to reach that level in my discipline.

You’re now a role model to young athletes. What advice would you give them?

Discipline and consistency are the keys. Keep grinding even on the days you don’t feel like it. Train harder when your body wants to rest. Once you master your mindset, you’re on your way to becoming a pro.

What goals have you set for the upcoming season, locally and internationally?

Simple: get faster, train harder, and be more disciplined than I am now. There’s always room to improve, and I plan to climb even higher in the world rankings.

No athlete succeeds alone. Who are the people behind your achievements?

My coach, Naomi Schmidt, and JP Schmidt are the foundation of my success. They ensured I always had access to gym facilities, food, electricity, transportation, and everything else. They went above and beyond, and without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

-lmupetami@nepc.com.na