BETHANIE – Eleven Brothers from Naute Dam were crowned champions when they defeated Aus-based Desert Horses 3-2 in the final of the David Isaacks Independence Football Tournament held in Bethanie on Sunday.
Thirteen teams from Bethanie, Berseba, Aus, and surrounding farms competed.
Sports minister Agnes Tjongarero said in her keynote address that events such as the David Isaacks Independence tournament serve as testimony to how sports can unite a community.
“As tribalism is not welcome in any part of Namibia, let this tournament bring together people from all corners to celebrate in cohesion, aspiring to create a brighter future for all Namibians,” she emphasised.
Tjongarero reminded the youth of their responsibility as future leaders of the country.
“Your potential is limitless, and it is thus up to you to work towards a brighter future for yourself and the citizens of the country at large,” she added. Tjongarero also urged the youth to embrace education.
She further encouraged them to give their all on the field and demonstrate sportsmanship and dedication. The minister also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Bethanie Village councillor David Isaacks for his unwavering support and dedication as the patron of this cup.
“Your commitment to promoting sport and fostering unity among our communities is truly commendable,” she said.
Quoting late President Hage Geingob who believed that exclusivity spells conflict whilst inclusivity spells harmony, Tjongarero urged all present to work with that mantra by bringing people in regions together, with the clear objective of building national cohesion.
In his contribution, Isaacks explained the purpose of the event as that of promoting sports and helping young people to further develop their potential as they might be recognised one day for bigger and brighter opportunities, thus competing in major soccer leagues in the country.
“Be however rest assured that this annual tournament will just grow bigger and better in future,” he promised during the event.
Local team Touch and Go’s captain Arthur Brandt said the tournament is indeed a good initiative as it keeps youth in the region busy by developing themselves physically through participating in sports.
“Through doing so, we also do not become bored easily which may lead to substance abuse as an alternative way of relaxation,” he reasoned.
He boasted that their 15-year-old goalkeeper has been scouted for the upcoming Nedbank Namibian newspaper cup in Gobabis.
Jennifer Hanse, one of the entrepreneurs who ran a stall at the event said it was a good opportunity for them to earn an extra income.
«Business is normally slow during normal days, but events like this, attract large crowds from and around Bethanie and make it possible for us as vendors to sell more of our products at the food stalls,” said Hanse.
- sklukowski@nepc.com.na