The MTC Namibia Netball Premier League (NNPL) playoffs are set to take place this weekend at Khomasdal Stadium, where 10 teams will battle for a coveted spot in next year’s premier league.
The competing teams include Afrocat Lions, Extreme NC, Harambee, Bush Bucks, Okahandja NC, Unam Jaguars, Fatou FC, Afro Queens, Cuca Tops and Blue Girls NC.
The teams will face off in two pools, playing matches across two courts.
The action will start promptly at 08h00 on both days, with nine exciting matches scheduled each day.
Only four teams – two from each pool – will secure their place in next season’s NNPL.
Sofia Simon, secretary general of Netball Namibia, assured that all logistics for the playoffs are in place.
“We really expect these teams to go all out, and put on a great display,” she said.
This will encourage fans to attend and support their favourite players and teams.
Unam Jaguars’ head coach Augusta Mbai expressed her team’s determination to remain in the premier league.
“We are fortunate enough to have played in the league last year. We just need to leverage the key learnings from last year, and fight to end in the top four teams over the weekend. The girls are ready. The spirit is high,” she said.
Afrocat Lions Dimitri Bitler said their management is thrilled to have two teams – Afrocat Lions (Khomas) and Afro Queens (Omaheke) – competing in the upcoming MTC NNPL playoffs.
“This marks a significant milestone for the club, with both teams aiming to secure their place at the highest level of Namibian netball.
He emphasised his team’s determination to succeed.
“Afrocat Lions, with the experience from league competition, are determined to survive the cut and prove their resilience on the court. On the other end, Afro Queens are eager to make their mark in their first-ever MTC NNPL playoff appearance.
“Playing four matches over the weekend will be a tough challenge, demanding both physical and mental endurance from the players. However, we are confident that both teams will rise to the occasion and secure their spots in the top-flight league,” he said.