Namibian volleyball referee Ihula Tobias Naushanga has taken a significant step in his officiating career after becoming an International Referee Candidate.
He recently completed an intensive course in Cairo, Egypt, after being nominated by the Namibia Volleyball Federation (NVF).
Although he remains involved in the sport as a player, his passion has gradually shifted toward officiating, inspired by Joseph Hamunyela, a national referee and chairperson of the Central North Volleyball Association (CNVA).
“I didn’t just start as a referee, but I started as a player, and to date, I still play, although not as actively as before. I developed a fondness for officiating after Hamunyela gave me my first opportunity to officiate in the CNVA League four years ago. To this day, I still go to him for guidance on rules I barely understand,” Naushanga recalled.
He explains that the level of play in the national league is considerably higher than in regional leagues, requiring deeper knowledge and stricter rule application.
While regional competitions may relax some rules to boost participation, the national league enforces all rules to uphold top standards. Naushanga’s growth results from consistency and learning from experienced officials, with mentorship from seniors like Fillemon Amupadhi, Namibia’s first international referee.
Over the years, Naushanga has officiated in regional leagues, the MTC Volleyball National League (VNL), the Bank Windhoek Doc Tournament, and the NVF Cup. His experience also extends beyond Namibia’s borders.
Most recently, he officiated at international competitions such as the Region 5 Youth Games, the SADC Correctional Services and Penitentiary Games, and the Zone 6 Senior Club Championship, the highest level of competition he has officiated to date.
“The Zone 6 Senior Club Championship was the first and highest competition I’ve ever officiated, and that is indeed a proud moment for me. My performance surpassed my expectations, despite being nervous,” he said.
When NVF nominated him for the CAVB International Referee Candidate Course in Cairo, Naushanga admitted he felt overwhelmed, noting that many experienced referees are in the country. Nonetheless, he appreciated the opportunity.
He aimed to gain practical knowledge of court positioning, game management, and rule application, goals he believes he achieved.
According to Naushanga, remaining calm in high-pressure, controversial matches is essential.
“Remaining calm is a prerequisite in such matches. You must know what you’re doing, and refereeing centres on the correct interpretation of the rules. Being independent and impartial, that is what we call smooth refereeing,” he explained.
He noted that international matches often involve greater intensity and aggression, requiring faster decision-making and stricter rule enforcement than local competitions. An area where local referees can continue to grow.
Outside of volleyball, Naushanga serves as a soldier in the Namibia Defence Force, which currently has four active teams competing in regional and national volleyball leagues.
He hopes his international exposure will help elevate officiating standards in Namibia by sharing the knowledge he gained with fellow referees, players, and coaches.
“This is just the first step toward becoming a fully-fledged international referee. I hope to receive more nominations to officiate at international competitions to further improve my experience. Ultimately, I would like to officiate beyond the African continent,” Naushanga said.