Despite being placed in a tough group alongside some of the continent’s top field hockey nations, Petro Stoffberg, the captain of Namibia’s national senior women’s field hockey team, is brimming with confidence, believing that the team can secure the sought-after gold medal.
The team will be participating in the forthcoming African Cup of Nations (Afcon) Olympic qualifiers in Pretoria, South Africa. In Group B, Namibia will face neighbouring rivals Zambia, as well as strong opponents Ghana and Kenya.
Namibia will open their campaign with a tie against Ghana, on Sunday 29 October, they will face Zambia the following day before they play their final match against Kenya on Wednesday 1 November.
Speaking at the official send-off ceremony held at the Doc Jubber hockey field in Olympia, Windhoek, on Monday afternoon, Stoffberg expressed her enthusiasm for the team’s participation in the upcoming qualifiers, highlighting the team’s outstanding form and preparation.
“We are fully aware that the countries we’ll be facing are formidable opponents, and we must be at our very best to challenge them. However, we’ve put in extensive and thorough preparation to ensure we’re fully ready for this upcoming competition,” Stoffberg emphasised.
“As the team captain, I have faith in our squad. I believe we can secure a spot in the top three at the end of the competition. Our team is composed of young and energetic players, and each member is eagerly striving to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympics,” she added.
Additionally, head coach Sedtric Makati also reassured fans of the team’s readiness, expressing their determination to aim for the top position. “By now, it’s safe to say that the team is well-prepared. We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone involved in the lead-up to the competition, including the players and the schools that generously provided venues for training. Without the collective effort, we wouldn’t be here. Overall, the team is primed and determined to reach the podium,” Makati affirmed.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth, and National Service, Emma Kantema-Gaomas, called upon the nation to rally behind the team during the tournament. She also encouraged those who won’t be present in Pretoria to watch the matches live on SuperSport and support the team in South Africa.
“With the fighting spirit that we possess, I have great confidence in the team. I firmly believe that we have what it takes to secure a place at the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris next year,” Kantema-Gaomas said. - mkambukwe@nepc.com.na