Chief human capital and corporate affairs officer at MTC Namibia Tim Ekandjo has called for the top-flight netball league to transition into a professional league.
Ekandjo made this call during
the award ceremony that was held at the Khomasdal Stadium, where Namibia Correctional Service (NCS) were crowned champions of the 2023 MTC Namibia Netball Premier League (NNPL) , for the second time in three years, after defeating their close rivals, Namibia Navy, with a score of 44-33.
Addressing the gathering at the presentation event, Ekandjo commended the league for showcasing its immense potential and underscored the necessity of the continued support it receives. He also expressed his vision for the league to join the select few professional leagues in the country.
“In the next four years, we aspire to witness the transformation of the netball league into one of the few professional leagues in Namibia,” Ekandjo said.
“Within the league, we have dedicated women who invest their heart and soul, balancing their league commitments with family responsibilities. It would be highly gratifying to witness these individuals return home at the end of the month with a steady income. The issue of inadequate footwear is also a concern for our players, and we aim to provide them with new playing shoes.”
Meanwhile, Netball Namibia president Rebecca Goagoses echoed Ekandjo’s sentiments, affirming their readiness to transition into a professional league, contingent upon the availability of necessary funding.
“We stand ready to elevate our league to professional status. Currently, we operate within a semi-professional framework, but our aspirations have always been geared towards achieving a fully professional setup. We are already in discussions with the government to explore avenues for professionalisation. This has been part of our long-term strategy, and we are committed to realising it as long as the requisite funding is secured,” she stated.
In the 2023 MTC Namibia Netball Premier League, NCS emerged victorious, securing a prize of N$120 000 as league champions. Namibia Navy, the runners-up, walked away with N$80 000 in recognition of their commendable performance throughout the season.
Other Awards
Best midcourt player
Martha Shaambeni - NCS
Best defender
Sushine Murangi – Otjozondjupa Nampol
Administrator of the year
Lizl Stoman – Wanderers Netball Club
Best Shooter
Anna Kaspar – Namibia Navy
Best overall player
Venje Maharero – Afrocat Lions