Various sports administrators have praised the ongoing AUSC Region 5 Games, describing them as a powerful tool in uniting the region through sport.

This comes after a thrilling beach volleyball final played at a packed DTS Beach Arena, where dignitaries and sports administrators from several countries gathered to witness an electrifying showdown between Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Among the officials in attendance was Namibia Volleyball Federation (NVF) president Tobias Mwatelulo, who applauded the Namibian beach volleyball team for their outstanding performance in securing a silver medal. 

Sharing his thoughts on the tournament, he said such events are crucial for talent development and identification, calling for more competitions of this nature to be held regularly.

“I’m very proud of how our boys performed today. It shows there’s immense talent in Namibia that people don’t often see, but which is now on display at these games. It’s important to give young athletes platforms like this to compete. Credit must go to the organisers. This event has exposed so much undiscovered talent,” he said.

Mwatelelo highlighted that the games not only offer fierce sporting competition but also create opportunities for young athletes to gain confidence and experience. 

“This event is bigger than just the games themselves. It allows athletes to exchange cultural values, learn from one another and see how things are done in different countries. That’s important in shaping well-rounded athletes,” he said.

Zimbabwe’s beach volleyball head coach Nyashadzashe Takawira, whose team clinched the gold medal in the inaugural beach volleyball event, also praised the standards of the tournament and its significance in nurturing young talent.

“I believe it’s important for us to have these games annually. This is one of the few chances our young athletes have to test their skills in real competition. I’m grateful for the opportunity. If the organisers continue like this, I’m confident countries from this region will improve at major international tournaments,” he said.

Veteran football analyst and administrator Isack Hamata also weighed in, highlighting the importance of the games in exchanging ideas and knowledge, often leading to life-changing opportunities.

“These games play a huge role in exposing young athletes and giving them a platform to be noticed while also enabling administrators to share expertise and experiences that benefit the broader sporting community,” he said.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na