Hilma Nalupe
The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the 2025 Capricorn schools netball league nears its much-anticipated national playoffs in August.
With 85 teams representing 30 schools from eight regions across Namibia, the competition has already showcased the depth of young talent and the passion that continues to fuel the country’s school netball scene.
Backed by the Namibia Schools Sport Union (NSSU) and proudly sponsored by Capricorn Group, the league, now in its ninth year, caters for age groups from U/12 to U/19, giving hundreds of learners the platform to grow their skills, teamwork and confidence both on and off the court.
“The Capricorn schools netball league is more than a series of netball games. It’s a launchpad for personal development, teamwork and striving for greatness,” said Marlize Horn, the Group chief: brand & corporate affairs officer.
To ensure the highest standard of officiating, the league hosted an intensive Umpires course earlier in June, where over 100 umpires were trained under the expertise of South Africa’s Marielouw van der Merwe, a World Netball-sanctioned International Testing Panel instructor.
League chairperson Liezel Garbers praised the commitment shown by both players and officials.
She said: “We’re inspired by the talent and dedication we’re seeing this season. The teams have shown extraordinary commitment. We’re looking forward to an action-packed finale next month”.
The momentum leading into the playoffs was amplified by the most recent round of matches played on 25 and 26 July, which saw teams across all age groups battling for supremacy.
Among the standout results, Windhoek High School dominated the U/13 division with decisive victories, while Centaurus shone in the U/14 category.
Windhoek Gymnasium impressed in the U/17s, thumping Otjiwarongo SS 47-4.
WBPS maintained their edge in the U/19 fixtures with a thrilling 49-6 win over Dr Lemmer.
With performances of this calibre and growing enthusiasm from schools and supporters alike, the countdown to the national playoffs promises more drama, skill and moments to remember as Namibia’s young athletes chase both victory and the opportunity to etch their names into school netball history.