Zebaldt Ngaruka
Karee Hengari, head coach of the newly promoted Omaheke Second Division outfit, Gobabis Sports Club (SC), said they stuck to their plan after his newly promoted side stunned established teams in their opening weekend in the Omaheke Second Division League (OSDL).
The Gobabis-based outfit, competing in the regional second tier for the first time, collected maximum points from its first two matches, a feat no other team managed over the weekend.
Their fairytale start began on Saturday at Legare Stadium, where Gobabis SC edged Leonardville-based Golden Boys FC 1-0. The decisive goal came from Tjipekapora Ruhumba, sealing a historic first victory for the debutants.
Golden Boys are no pushovers; they finished third last season, while fellow Leonardville outfit Kom Haal Hulle FC ended as runners-up behind champions Omaheke SC. Yet Gobabis SC showed no signs of intimidation.
On Sunday, they delivered another statement performance, defeating Kom Haal Hulle 3-2 in a thrilling encounter to cap a perfect six-point weekend.
Hengari credited the early success to meticulous planning and player commitment.
“We had a plan, and we stuck to it. Winning the third division title last season already motivated the boys. We began preparations as early as 10 January 2026,” he said.
Despite the dream start, the coach remains grounded. The club’s primary objective is survival.
“We came with a purpose, and that is to avoid relegation at all costs. The players understand the goals and are confident, but we are not rushing anything. We will see what the next season offers.”
To strengthen the squad, Gobabis SC recruited experienced campaigners, including Seun Uahupirapi, formerly of Civics, and ex-Young African FC captain Ngaitone Kaindjee. Goalkeeper Matjiua Kaukuata and two players from Otjinene have also joined the ranks.
The squad blends experience with youth. The oldest player, Uahupirapi, is 34, while promising 19-year-olds Mouroro Hange, Nangotjitouua Mbaukua and Kamaazembua Hange represent the club’s youthful core.
However, challenges remain. Hengari admitted that financial constraints are a major hurdle.
“We lack proper sportswear and sometimes play in normal T-shirts. We also need soccer balls and training equipment,” he said, appealing to the business community and well-wishers for support.
Team manager Venomambo Muende emphasised the club’s broader mission: keeping young people off the streets and focused on education.
Currently, Gobabis SC sit top of the standings, ahead of Desert Rollers SC, with Omaheke SC and Kom Haal Hulle trailing. It’s early days, but Gobabis SC have certainly arrived with intent.
– zngaruka@yahoo.com