Zebaldt Ngaruka 

The organiser of the Otjiwarongo Youth Cup Raisameua Kasaona described the annual football tournament as a success. 

He said the anticipated competition saw 38 football battling against each other in the U/11 to 18 age groups from both boys and girls at Paresis Sports Ground.

The City Pro U/11 boys were crowned champions after it defeated Scorpions by a solitary goal.

Otjiwarongo Sports Academy took the third position following its triumph in the group.

In the U/13 age group, Donatus Primary School (PS) emerged victorious after they outshined Okarundu PS in the final of the boys’ U/13.

The third poster was again claimed by Otjiwarongo Sports Academy. 

Otjiwarongo-based Donatus PS showed power and stunned Paresis SS by a 4-2 scoreline to be crowned as U/15 champions, leaving the third spot for Otjiwarongo Secondary School. 

In the girls’ competition, only U/18 age groups featured in the competition, where Scorpions were ranked first. 

They were followed by Otjiwarongo Sports Academy in second place, while Paresis SS claimed the third position. 

Kasoana added that the display on the field was exceptional, as most teams show determination and hunger for success.

“We had a great tournament, and the attendance was huge. The young ones were given an opportunity to showcase their talent, which was the aim of the event,” the organiser said.

However, Kasaona encountered a few problems, as two teams failed to travel to the competition due to transport issues. 

“This had a slight challenge on our match scheduling. We, therefore, urge team managers to communicate in advance for the smooth running of the competition in future,” he said.

The organiser urged various teams, especially academies and schools, to consider girls’ teams for the upcoming tournament next year.

“The girls’ teams are registering low from different age groups. That forced us to combine all girls’ teams in the U/18. Sport officers must step in and focus on the girl child in terms of football,” he requested. 

Kasaona thanked CENORED for their unwavering commitment to support towards hosting the Youth Cup. 

“We appreciate their efforts. We are also thankful for all stakeholders involved, especially the Otjiwarongo community, for a kind hospitality to the visitors,” he said. 

In addition to trophies, the winning teams received medals for their achievements. 

-zngaruka@yahoo.com