Namibia’s senior netball side, the Desert Jewels, which leaves for Cape Town this coming Friday to partake in the Spar Challenge, yesterday received national colours and a befitting send-off from the Namibia Sports Commission (NSC).
The Debmaine Desert Jewels, as they are known for sponsorship reasons, are invited to participate in the upcoming Spar Challenge and will be joined by the She Cranes of Uganda, local sides Proteas U/21 and the SA President Invitational squad. The Spar Challenge starts on 24-31 March and will be played in a bio-bubble.
Speaking at yesterday’s send-off ceremony at the offices of the NSC, Desert Jewels head coach Julene Meyer assured the team will put up a great show at the competition, as they have prepared well – and their main aim is to secure a top-10 world ranking through their participation in the upcoming Spar Challenge.
“It’s a privilege to be invited to this competition; the team is ready, I must say. We have worked hard to be well prepared for this exciting competition. The players have been hard at work and are ready to go out there and take up our position in the world top 10 rankings,” she said.
Also speaking at the same event, Debmarine Namibia chief financial officer Willy Martens said they are proud to be sponsors of the Desert Jewels, saying their sponsorship to the national netball team is in line with the company’s commitment to support programmes that uplift women.
“Debmarine Namibia has been a proud sponsor of Netball Namibia over the past four years and they have proven to be a worthy recipient of our sponsorship. Access to equal opportunity and thriving with our communities through sport development are pillars of our social investment programme, where we are committed to uplifting women and girls, as well as supporting youth sport development. This is one example of us showing our commitment,” Martens said.
Desert Jewels captain Jatjinda ‘Toetsie’ Kambatuku also expressed gratitude to Debmarine Namibia for always coming to the team’s rescue when it is most needed and helping to fulfil its purpose.
“Your sponsorship, in many ways, has brought a huge amount of help to netball and we are here to send our appreciation to you. Your kindness is actually permitting us as players to fulfil our purpose and dreams. All we want is just to say thank you for all your support and help, which you actually extended through your sponsorship,” she said.
The travelling team is as follows: Bittley Selma, Roetz Rachalle, Gomases Monica Shahin, Kutako Emmy, Kaspar Anna Kulaumone Ndeshitila, Garbers Juzelri, Shipanga Anna Etuhole, Kambatuku Jatjinda, Hanyanya Loide Tangeni, Mulenamaswe Mwale Kathy, Kamutushi Nanguloshi Eva Nyamningwa and Maharero Venyekerera.
– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na