Teams in the Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) League have lauded the just-ended Trustco Castle Lite 10-a-side tournament, saying it is vital ahead of the new rugby season. 

The tournament was held at the Trustco United Park in the capital on Friday and Saturday, and consisted of various divisions, including the men’s and women’s teams. 

In the men’s premier league, Unam outclassed Wanderers 35-7 to be crowned champions after winning 19-0 against Trustco United in the semi-finals. 

Wanderers thrashed Grootfontein 24-10 to reach the finals. 

In the men’s reserve league, Unam 2 and Wanderers 2 played to a 7-all draw, only for Wanderers to eventually win 17-07 in extra time. 

In the women’s competition, Wanderers beat Unam 17-0 to become champs. 

Speaking to this publication on the importance of the tournament, Unam men’s team head coach David Philander said the competition played a huge role in their preparations for the new rugby season on a date yet to be announced. 

“It’s an important competition. This has helped us to measure our level of fitness. We also had a chance to watch our newly-signed players,” said an excited Philander. 

Wanderers coach Rohan Kitshoff also lauded the competition, saying it gave them a clear direction as to what and where they needed to improve ahead of the much-anticipated rugby season. 

“The tournament was very important for us. Firstly, it helped our preparations for the new season. Secondly, we had the opportunity to look at our new players. It also taught us the importance of concentration on the field of play. If you make a mistake, you get punished and that’s what we have learned,” he said.

Meanwhile, Janice Beukes, who is the coach of the Wanderers’ women, said they need more such competitions to improve their performance and take women’s rugby to the top. 

“It’s an amazing feeling to have more ladies on the field playing rugby. The competition was important as it improves our fitness levels and have more game-time which we need,” she said.  A total of 21 teams participated in the tournament, with seven men’s premier league teams, eight men’s reserve league and six women’s teams all divided into two pools. 

- mkambukwe@nepc.com.na