WINDHOEK – Faced with a gruelling schedule at next month’s Vodacom Cup, Namibia’s rugby 15, the Welwitschias’ preparations for the upcoming tournament yesterday received a much-needed boost from local financial giants FNB through a N$1 750 000 sponsorship.
With Namibia set to play all its Vodacom Cup matches at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek, FNB has thrown its weight behind the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) in a bid to ensure the smooth running of all proceedings when the Welwitschias host their South African opponents.
During the official signing ceremony in the capital yesterday, NRU President, Bradley Basson, thanked FNB for always extending a helping hand when it’s most needed and for having rugby close to its heart.
“With the support of FNB and others such as Air Namibia, Windhoek Draught and Paratus Telecom to mention a few, Namibian rugby has hope for the future and our partners have time and again proved they still believe in us and the potential our rugby has,” said Basson.
Meanwhile, Basson called on the team to remain focused, committed and to strive for the best at all times when on or off the pitch, adding that the time has come for Namibia to compete against the best and not just participate for the sake for participating.
“We should strive to deliver and be the best. The time to compete for top honours is now for Namibia; so don’t just go out there to represent your country but go out there to make Namibia proud. We have the best technical team, so it’s now all up to the players to deliver the desired results.”
On his part, FNB Chief Executive Officer, Sarel van Zyl, shared similar sentiments, saying since many Namibian players do not always get the chance to play or gain exposure outside the country, it is very important to participate in competitions such the Vodacom Cup, as it is a great opportunity for the home-based players to gain the needed exposure while competing at a higher level.
Namibia’s Vodacom Cup fixtures are as follows:
Welwitschias vs Xerox Golden Lions (March 6, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Steval Pumas (March 13, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Down Touch Griffons (March 27, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Vodacom Blue Bulls (April 10, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Assupol Limpopo Blue Bulls (April 18, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Valke (May 1, 2015)
Welwitschias vs Leopards (May 8, 2015)