Zebaldt Ngaruka 

The chairperson of the Otjozondjupa Women’s Football League, Glenda Damases says the league authority takes the education of players seriously and will always motivate their players to study.

The 12-teams league composed mainly of school-going players, was recently halted to pave the way for learners to study for the examination. 

 Damases told New Era Sports that education fosters personal growth, discipline, and time management skills, all of which are valuable for balancing the demands of both academics and athletics. 

“A well-educated player might have a better understanding of tactics, game plans, and mental aspects,” she said.

The chairperson added that education also provides footballers with alternative career options and skills they can fall back on after their playing days are over.

“It will be great for players to fall on something when their football career is over, live a better life, and that better life will come with education. 

That is why we always encourage the learners not to miss study time because of training,” explained Damases. 

Furthermore, most teams in the only region’s women’s football elite league find it tough in the league due to the lack of sponsorship.

The chairperson shared with New Era Sports that sponsorship is needed as it can help in the development of women’s football in the vast region.

“Sponsorships can help provide the necessary resources for teams such as paying for better playing facilities, equipment, and transportation of teams from different constituencies,” she explained. 

These resources not only enhance the players’ development but also improve the overall competitiveness of the league.

“With strong sponsorship, the league can attract more talent, host more frequent and high-quality matches, and potentially gain more media coverage. 

That will also contribute to the growth and visibility of women’s football in the Otjozondjupa region.”  

Damases also emphasised that sponsorship can help establish more structured development programmes for young female players.

Asked whether there will be teams from the region that will be promoted to the Women’s Super League (WSL) this season, the chairperson said no.

 However, she said the new season will be starting soon, and there will be promoted and relegated teams if the region›s league is integrated into the national structure. 

“The winner of next season could indeed be promoted to higher league. This will depend on the rules set by the Namibia Football Association, which typically includes criteria like the team’s performance, infrastructure, and financial stability area where sponsorship can make a significant impact,” elaborated Damases. 

The chairperson is confident that promotion to the elite league will offer the team greater exposure and the opportunity to compete at a higher level, which could further attract sponsorships and investment, creating a positive cycle of growth and development for women’s football in the Otjozondjupa region.