OSHAKATI

Young Chiefs FC, who have been promoted from the Northwest First Division League to the Namibia Premier League (NPL), could join the league without a committed sponsor.

This was revealed during the club’s annual general meeting (AGM) held at Oshakati over the weekend.

The club’s assistant treasurer, Daniel Ashipala, told the AGM that the club is funded with membership fees.

Chairperson of the club, Elago Amuthenu, told Nampa on Wednesday Oshakati Premier Electric is the only company which has so far shown interest in supporting the club. Amuthenu, who was re-elected on Saturday, pointed out that a sponsorship committee, headed by Toivo Shoovaleka, has been established to lobby for support. 

Young Chiefs FC founder Susie Shilunga told those in attendance at the AGM on Saturday that she established the club in 1984 with only N$50.

“It was not easy to establish this team, but it was out of my desire to remove the boys from the street and keep them busy with the game of football,” Shilunga said.

She pointed out that Young Chiefs FC became an official football club only after winning one of the Oshakati football tournaments in 1989.

“Don’t aim for big money as players, but bear in mind that Young Chiefs have joined the national league where you will be exposed and advance to international football,” Shilunga said.

Martin Ambunda was elected team manager to be assisted by Ipangelwa Shikulo and Martin Kapewasha, while Tobias Herman (incumbent coach), Alex Itumba and Damian Shuumbua have been picked to be caretaker coaches.

Other members of the exco are Paavo Uahengo (team administrative officer), Etuhole Hanai (secretary), Setson Shilyomunhu (treasurer) and Nikanor Kapuka (public relations officer).

- Nampa