Vijakura Tjingaete, at the mere age of 21, embodies the archetype of a complete athlete that scouts around the world yearn to discover.
Her journey began on the netball court, where her passion for sport first ignited. However, as time progressed, her interests expanded beyond netball to encompass athletics. It was during this transition that Tjingaete’s innate athleticism began to truly shine.
Yet, it was the encouragement from her brothers that led Tjingaete down a new path, one that would ultimately define her sporting career. Introduced to soccer by her brothers, she found herself immersed in the world of football. Playing predominantly with boys, she honed her skills and instilled a deep love for the beautiful game. It was here that the football bug truly bit her, capturing her heart, and steering her towards a future brimming with possibilities.
Tjingaete started playing football in primary school. Currently, she plays for Girls and Goals in the FNB Women’s Super League while at the same time wearing the national colours for the Brave Gladiators.
“I play centre-back at Girls and Goals, for which I have been playing there for quite some time, ever since the league started. But at the national level, I play left-back for the Brave Gladiators when I made my debut last year against Gambia. My favourite position is left-back because I get to use my left foot quite often. But I also enjoy playing centre-back because it’s a very crucial position,” she said.
Under the tutelage of former Brave Gladiators coach Mamie Kasaona, Tjingaete’s journey in football took a significant leap forward. Recognising Tjingaete’s raw talent and potential, Kasaona took her under her wing, providing invaluable guidance and mentorship. It was through Kasaona’s mentorship that Tjingaete was able to deepen her understanding of football, facilitating her seamless integration into the Women’s Super League and taking a liking to coaching as well.
“I love both roles of coach and player, but I would mostly go for playing ever since I was vested into football. I love playing football; it has been my favourite sport ever since I started. I used to play football from a very young age, a sport that I love the most, and so I would go for football.”
The versatile athlete is grateful for her mentor’s guidance, as she has been a student of Mamie Kasaona’s teaching abilities and instils discipline in all her players.
“I have been a student of hers all this time. She has instilled discipline in everyone at the academy. When I’m coaching them, the other players listen because that’s what is being taught at this academy, which works hand in hand with their education.”
Most of Tjingaete’s family members were active sport personalities, especially her aunts and sisters.
Her mom, Daina Tjejamba, played for the national netball team.
“So, the football thing came from my brothers side. I have more brothers and sisters. That’s why I started playing football. My older brother would always encourage me to play football,” she explained.
Mamie Kasaona said Tjingaete is very passionate about the game and is willing to step in and help whenever she (Kasaona) is busy with other work. “She even helps the smaller ones, making sure they feel part of the team irrespective of their background; it’s what brought me to convince her to try her best in coaching because there is always life after a football career, which is either coaching, fitness, or being an agent,” she explained.
“Football for her; it’s close to her heart. She loves football, so if you have someone who loves football coming into the game to coach, it’s a plus. I give her my old notes for different courses that I have attended, and she goes through my coaching planning. During training, I equally guide her as well. Because she is a willing learner and a fast learner, everything goes well.”
Tjingaete is now a second-year student at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, studying public management. “I am juggling my football roles and studies very well, especially when it comes to playing or coaching. Sometimes we play two games on the weekend, which are on Saturday or Sunday, and when coach Mamie is not available, I avail myself to step in.”
“I see myself as a professional footballer because of my fitness, my commitment, and my physique. Football is what I am most focused on, and coaching is also just part-time. But in the future, I would love to take my coaching career more seriously, but I have my priorities for now,” she noted.
“I want to thank my coaches, especially coach Mamie. I know we are young, and we tend to do a lot of things. I use football to keep myself busy and stay away from all the peer pressure,” she concluded. -slunyangwe@nepc.com.na