Various schools which participated in the Debmarine Bridging the Gap tournament were handed their prizes yesterday after taking part in last year’s edition in Windhoek.
The tournament typically caters to students under the age of 15, who compete in various sports disciplines such as football, athletics and netball.
The event has been held annually since its inception in 2019.
Last year’s event saw the Khomas region reign supreme in football, with //Karas taking second place.
In athletics, Khomas emerged as the overall winner, followed by Otjozondjupa.
In the netball category, Khomas dominated proceedings, followed by Omaheke in second place. Yesterday, all winning regions received sports kits and equipment worth N$10 000, while players and coaches from the winning teams each received N$1 500 worth of footwear.
Runners-up in each category received sports kits worth N$5000 and footwear worth N$750. The total amount awarded was N$720 000, with individual learners receiving prizes totalling N$190 000.
Speaking at the event, Debmarine CEO Willy Mertens applauded the students for their enthusiasm in participating in the tournament.
He said he believes sports can play a crucial role in social change, which is why Debmarine invests in sports development.
“I firmly believe in the power of sports as an agent for social change.
As the private sector, we have a responsibility to assist the government with socio-economic development, which provides not only career opportunities, but also helps alleviate youth unemployment,” he said. Also speaking at the same event was Rodger Kambatuku, the national coordinator of the Namibia Schools Sports Union, who thanked Debmarine for investing their resources in grassroots sports development.
“This is a great opportunity for young talent to showcase their abilities – and with such an opportunity, future sportsmen and sportswomen of the country are discovered.
We would like to thank Debmarine for investing their resources in talent development, and we hope they continue to invest more in these kids to ensure that they realise their dreams,” he said.
-mkambukwe@nepc.com.na