By Carlos Kambaekwa
WINDHOEK – It never rains but only pours for Namibian netball. The ladies’ game has been dealt a big blow following the shock announcement that one of her most talented players has resolved to quit the game for good, as a result of a career-ending knee injury.
Versatile African Stars wingback and skipper, Glenyth Vetjevera Kazonganga, has announced her premature retirement from the game after failing to recover sufficiently from a serious career-threatening injury.
The player sustained the injury during a practice match ahead of Namibia’s preparations for the country’s ill-fated participation in the Africa World Cup Qualifiers in Gaberone, Botswana, in September last year.
Namibia finished with the wooden spoon in the seven-nation round-robin tourney, its lowest display in many years after the team ended a commendable 15th place in the World Championship in Birmingham, England, in 1995.
Kazonganga was destined to play a prominent role in the country’s efforts to restore her ailing fortunes at regional and international fronts. Her unexpected departure could seriously hamper Namibia’s progress to restore her lost dignity while she also leaves a big dent in Stars’ armoury; she was a pillar of strength for the youthful Reds outfit.