In just two years, she has evolved from a young hopeful learning the ropes to one of the most consistent defensive forces in the current Tigers netball team fold. 

Quiet off the court but commanding under the post, Lea Ndahepele is slowly writing her name into the league’s books, one interception at a time. 

Born 2001 at the coastal town of Walvis Bay, her journey did not begin at Tigers, her current club. It started on the dusty courts of her primary school, International Primary School in the Oshana region, where her former teacher and mentor, Foibe Neliwa, first spotted her potential. In grade 5, she was already making waves, being selected for national team trials held in Windhoek a feeling she described as fuelling her love for the sport. 

Later, in high school, coach Sakupaula Poppy took her under his wing, introducing her to bigger teams and tougher competition. Each coach helped shape her into the formidable goalkeeper she is today. 

“Coach Poppy saw me playing and offered to coach me. He introduced me to bigger teams and new opportunities, and that helped push me even further in my netball journey,” she recalled. 

Now in her second season with the Shandumbala outfit, she has cemented her place, becoming not just a prospect but a pillar of the team. This has seen her win four Player of the Match awards during the previous season. Additionally, her crucial role at the back has helped her team finish in the league’s top 5 last year, demonstrating her impact. Her dream for this season is to guide her side to a top three finish. 

“I have been playing for Tigers for about two years now, and the journey has been full of growth. From the beginning, I felt welcomed and pushed to become a better player,” she said. 

“Being part of the team has helped me grow both on and off the court. I’ve gained confidence, improved my skills, and learned the true value of teamwork and discipline. We’ve shared so many great moments together, and I’m proud to be part of such a supportive and motivated team.” 

Off the court, she juggles work, studies at NUST (currently pursuing an Honours in Communication), and sport with quiet determination. “I work, and I’m also a part-time student. Balancing everything isn’t easy, but I try to stay organised, manage my time well, and stick to my routine, even though sometimes it’s hard. For me, it’s all about planning and staying committed,” she explained. 

Although she is yet to be shortlisted for the national squad, her dream is to one day proudly wear the national team netball jersey a goal she passionately hopes to achieve. “No, I haven’t represented Namibia at the national level yet, but I was selected for the national team trials. I went for the trials, and although I didn’t make the final squad, it was still a great experience and motivation to keep working hard,” she shared. 

Regarding her thoughts on the netball league, she expressed pride in how far the top-flight netball league has come, from improved payments and structured fixtures to increased media attention. However, she believes more can still be done. “We need more resources, more visibility. The talent is here, and I believe we just need more people watching,” she added. 

Meanwhile, Isadore Nell, the team manager at Tigers Netball Club, hailed the captain as the future of the team. “I am happy that we believed in the girl when she joined, and now she is the one commanding the team. I believe with time, she is going to reach greater heights,” Nell said. 

mkambukwe@nepc.com.na