Hilma Nalupe

The Ongos Valley Sevens Championship took place on Saturday at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek, featuring 15 teams. The event showcased thrilling rugby action as local and international teams battled for top honours.

South Africa’s Wits Barbarians emerged as this year’s champions after a hard-fought 14-12 victory over FNB Wanderers in the finals. The defending champions, FNB Kudus, were eliminated in the semi-finals after falling 21-0 to the eventual winners. In the other semi-final, FNB Wanderers defeated FNB Grootfontein 40-10 to secure their place in the final.

In the bronze final, FNB Grootfontein overcame Kudus 33-22 in an entertaining clash. In the women’s final, Wanderers Bokkies claimed a 10-0 win over Rehoboth Bokkies, rounding off a day of competitive rugby. Wits Barbarians captain Nathan van Wyk said his team’s resilience was key to their success. “It was not easy, but we are the Wits Barbarians and we don’t give up,” he said, noting the long journey and competition they faced.

FNB Wanderers captain Kian Fransman praised the tournament’s organisation and the experience gained from competing against strong opposition. “We played six games and as a young team, we are grateful for the opportunity to play with some of the best,” he said.

Abed Erastus, Marketing Executive of Ongos Valley Sevens, said the increase in teams and participation from South Africa was a major highlight. “Having more teams this year, including two invitational sides from South Africa, really brought in a different element compared to last year,” he said.

The tournament concluded with excitement and optimism as organisers hailed it as a major success for Namibian Sevens rugby. -hilmanalupe@gmail.com