Zebaldt Ngaruka
Katima-Mulilo – The volleyball refereeing course organised by the Zambezi Volleyball Association (ZVA) in Katima Mulilo, from 12 to 16 May 2025, has been described as a success.
The five-day training course attracted 23 participants including four from the Central Volleyball Association and one from the Kavango Volleyball Association.
International Volleyball Federation referee candidate, Fillemon Amupadhi facilitated the course, which offered in-depth theoretical and practical training on volleyball officiating, equipping participants with essential skills aligned with international standards.
Among the standout participants were schoolteachers from Sesheke Combined School and Sikosinyana Senior Secondary School, underscoring ZVA’s continued commitment to promoting volleyball at the grassroots level.
Evans Lukulo told New Era Sports the course was interesting in the sense that it provided him the necessary skills to officiate a volleyball game.
As a teacher, he said the course had empowered him to start a volleyball team at his school.
“This is what we needed in this region because we play volleyball league every weekend. I am happy to receive the qualification, and will start officiating in the league now,” he said.
Lukulo said a course of this nature was important, and urged former players to share their expertise with grassroots’ teams in their respective areas.
“I missed one course in Rundu, but I am happy to attend this one. This not a demanding course, there is no running needed like in other sports, and this suits everyone,” he added.
Another participant, Gabriel Kalimbo from Namibian Defence Force (NDF) team Hurricanes said the course had come at the right time as he is nearing retirement from playing volleyball.
The 40-year-old Kalimbo, who plays as a blocker for the Hurricanes, said he wants to remain active in the game and explore knowledge with others, especially at grassroots’ levels.
“This is a very nice course. It has enlightened me on the new rules of the game and of course upgraded my knowledge in the sport I like most,” said the player, who will be retiring at the end of this year.
He urged ZVA to bring more refresher courses to contribute to the development of volleyball in the region and the country as a whole. Silumbu Sisamu, a coach for Hippo VC, said the course was an upgrade on how he will view the game as an official.
“From now on, the quality of the officiating will improve as we get a chance to learn more about new rules,” the coach said. Sisamu called for more courses to develop volleyball at the grassroots level in the area.
“This will be great if more people are involved. They will improve the game locally and in the national league,” he opined.
Meanwhile, ZVA chairperson Kabende Kabende commended the participants for their enthusiasm as well as dedication, and encouraged them to build on the knowledge they had acquired.
“I urge all participants to continue upgrading their skills and perfecting their officiating standards. Share what you have learnt with others in your communities to help improve the quality of volleyball matches across all levels,” he said.
Kabende said the involvement of teachers is a strategic move to enhance volleyball development in schools.
“By empowering teachers with officiating expertise, ZVA is ensuring the sport gains stronger roots among young pupils and future athletes,” said the chairperson.
He said the successful completion of the course highlighted ZVA’s proactive role in elevating the standard of volleyball in Namibia and building a knowledgeable, skilled base of officials to support the sport’s growth nationwide.