History reveals that between 1988 and the 2000s, though a little unknown to many, the Gurirab bloodline brought something truly special to the domestic football scene. 

Brutally told in bold letters without fear or favour, the Gurirab brothers were like manna from Heaven. They were extremely gifted with natural skill, deep football intelligence, complimented by unshakable chemistry, the siblings proudly wore the blue and royal stripe of the exciting Hakhaseb location outfit Blue Rangers Football Club with pride, turning every match into a spectacle.

Admittedly, these young lads were not just ordinary athletes, they were genetically phenomenal, real entertainers, talented, absolute crowd pullers, and hometown heroes. Up to this day, football lovers still speak in awe about their unbelievable chemistry and jaw dropping unity on the football pitch. 

Blood cousins to late liberation icon Dr Theo-Ben Guirirab, the Gurirab siblings moved as a programmed unit, reading each other’s moves and anticipation like a script from pages of a family playbook. For those who were lucky enough to watch them effortlessly bewitch a spherical leather object, it was more than a game, it was a show of grace, power, and sheer passion with a grain of arrogant football skills. 

Shepherded by elder brothers Fanuel ‘Merino’ and Obed ‘Roger’, were commanding rock steady centre-backs Digu ‘Jimmy Cliff’, tireless overlapping right back of modern times ‘Ou Crime”, a tenacious and tactically disciplined left back, known for his ability to shut down opposition wingers while providing width and support in attack.

Add to that Willibardt ‘Sabanz’, Gerson ‘Backos Biekie’, the midfield maestros with vision like no other; Hendrick ‘Maruban’ and Willem ‘Coach’ Aubassi, the lethal attacker who was always one step ahead of his peers.

Include Fillemon ‘Ou Fly’, Elton ‘Brown’, the fearless shot stopper between the posts to the radar, and you have a complete combo. Each of the fraternal Gurirab brothers brought their unique talent, but as a unit they formed a legacy that still echoes in the town of Usakos and beyond.

Those fortunate enough to witness their brilliance and unmatched football virtuosity will forever remember the fashion in which they bamboozled the opposition without shedding a drop of sweat like a symphony on grass, each brother in tune with the other. 

The brothers’ presence in the navy and gold stripe of Blue Rangers propelled the ambitious Hakhaseb outfit to greater heights. The team competed fiercely in several knockout cup tournaments coming out tops in nearby towns Omaruru, Karibib, Otjimbingwe, Arandis, and Okombahe. 

Some of the prominent squad members donning the scared navy and gold attire of Blue Rangers Football Club that spring to mind are; Retired educator Mbeuu Tjozongoro, Wiseman ‘Lucky’ Namaseb (d+), Job Kauvi, Trosy ‘Tross’ Gaseb (d+), Gustav Uiseb, and David Heita.    

Respectfully, the beautiful game of football was more than just a pastime to them, it was a birthright, a language of love passed down from soul to soul. As it stands, will the Gurirab bloodline ever be matched by generations to come? Only time will tell. 

However, one thing is certain, their legacy is permanently etched in the soul and memory of the most loved and much adored sport on Namibian soul, the beautiful game of football. 

And as future generations lace their boots, the echoes of the Gurirabs will be there to inspire their dreams, in every pass, cheer, and heartbeat of the game. And of course, generations to come will be obligated to speak about the Gurirabs with reverence because they came, conquered, lived, dominated and did not just play the game for fun, they embodied football.

Truthfully speaking, long after the final whistle, the Gurirab siblings’ legacy will continue to echo through the football pitches they once ruled with sheer elegance, reminding us that greatness runs deep when it’s in the blood. 

*Additional information by: Obed ‘Roger’ Gurirab.