MTC netball: NSC takes the crown

In an intense clash on the last weekend of the 2023 MTC Namibian Netball Premier League, log leaders Namibia Correction Services (NSC) beat Namibian Navy 44-33 to claim the crown at the Khomasdal Netball Courts in Windhoek on Saturday.

NCS was the dominant force in each of the four quarters to walk away with the N$120 000 winners’ prize.

Even though Navy put up a brave fight, at the end of the day it came down to the superior goal attacking and distribution from the NSC centres.

Namibian Navy took home N$80 000, whereas Mighty Gunners bagged third place and the prize of N$40 000.

The president of Netball Namibia, Rebekka /Goagoses, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the coaches and team leaders who showed unwavering commitment throughout the year.

“They have faced challenges head-on, such as players relocating in search of new opportunities. Yet, they persevered, ensuring that our girls received the training they needed and travelled thousands of kilometres this year to compete in different regions. Their dedication is the backbone of our league’s success.

“This year, we had the privilege of witnessing the Netball World Cup on the African continent for the very first time. It was a spectacular event, one that I wish more of you could have experienced in person. Nevertheless, I hold hope that one day, we will secure a court with sprung wooden floor surface, enabling Namibia to host international matches on its own soil.

“Netball has revitalized the regional structure and has successfully done so in Kavango West, Kavango East, Omaheke, Kunene, Oshikoto, Ohangwena, Hardap and Karas Region, whilst active regions have been supported in bringing uniformity to the administration of netball nationally.

“This is indeed our sports code. The Namibian Netball Premier League further provides an opportunity to first division league winners from every region to qualify for the promotional tournament to the Premier League.

Those teams which have been relegated should know that it’s not the end of the road, she added. “On the contrary, the path forward begins now.”

/Goagoses said that it is crucial to acknowledge that none of the growth would be possible without the unwavering support of the league sponsor MTC.

“To Tim Ekandjo and your team, a simple thank you falls short of expressing our gratitude adequately. Your commitment to netball has ignited a passion in our young athletes and shone a bright light on the entire sporting community.

“Through the Harambee Prosperity Plan 2, in which sports is identified as an employment creation driver, we have created 180 jobs per year and 540 over three years, as a result of the MTC sponsorship.”

This was the last year of MTC’s three year sponsor to the league.

/Goagoses stated that while MTC have been a steadfast companion on their journey, they welcome others to join in ensuring that netball continues to flourish, “particularly through the establishment and maintenance of netball courts in townships.

“Our aim is to take this beautiful game back to the people, inspiring future generations of netball enthusiasts,” she concluded.

Award winners:

Club administrator: Lizl Stoman, Wanderers team manager (N$5 000).

Midcourt player of the league: Martha Shaambeni from NSC (N$5 000).

Best defender in the league: Sunshine Murangi from Otjozondjupa Nampol (N$5 000).

Top goal shooter: Anna Kaspar (N$7 000).

Overall player of the series: Venje Maharero, Afrocat Lions (N$7 000).