Oshakati
Newly crowned Namibian Newspaper Cup champions Oshana took the streets of Oshakati by storm last Friday, showcasing the trophy to the town’s residents before presenting the silverware to Governor of Oshana Region Clemens Kashuupulwa.
The governor’s chamber was filled to capacity with councillors, parents and local residents, who came to witness the historic ocassion.
In his remarks the governor applauded the players for their heroic performance and for restoring the pride of Oshana Region and its people, saying: “Your victory inspired us to do even better as a regional management.”
A joyful Kashuupulwa told the Under-20 players that a special dinner in their honour is slated to take place soon time, with preparations already underway.
He then presented a cheque of N$5000 as token of appreciation to the team. Oshakati Mayor Katrina Shimbuli donated N$2 000.
Namibia Football Association (NFA) president Frans Mbidi congratulated the players on a job well done, but was quick to point out that they need to maintain discipline of the highest order if they are to make strides in the world of football. He said their recent victory would be meaningless if the players lose focus.
Mbidi urged all the 14 regions to embark on constituency-level football development and to institute sport budgets in every region of the country, as he believes in so doing, the country as a whole would benefit in the long run.
The Namibian football supremo applauded the organisers for the growth of this competition since its inception, adding that 13 members of the current Brave Warriors squad cut their teeth in the popular annual youth tourney.