Lüderitz to host first leg of Ongos Valley Sevens Tournament

The second edition of the Ongos Valley Sevens Tournament, a high-impact rugby sevens competition uniting communities through sport, will tour Namibia with three action-packed weekends of rugby.



The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) has confirmed that Ocean Swallows Ruby Club, which is based in Lüderitz, will host the Southern Round and first leg of the second edition of the Ongos Sevens tournament. The NRU informed the Ocean Swallows coach, Alvin van Wyk, that in addition to the hosts, Oranjemund, Keetmanshoop RAMS, Mariental, and NUST have already confirmed their attendance at the event slated for Lüderitz on 30 August 2025. Vipers must still confirm whether they will compete in the tournament.



Bring it on - The mayor of the harbour town, Phillipus Balhao, welcomed the announcement. "The hosting of the Southern Leg of the Ongos Sevens tournament in Lüderitz is a momentous occasion for our community and town. This event not only showcases our town on a national and regional platform but also brings numerous opportunities for social cohesion, youth engagement, and economic activity,” Balhao said. He reiterated that the Town Council is committed to ensuring the event’s success by providing safe facilities and inclusive activities. “For our youth, the tournament provides a chance to participate in and witness high-level rugby and will inspire young athletes to pursue sports and healthy lifestyles. It also encourages community pride and unity as residents come together to support their teams and celebrate our town’s hospitality. The event is expected to boost local businesses, create jobs, and promote tourism, which are vital for the sustainable development of Lüderitz.” Balhao emphasised that the Ongos Sevens is more than just a sports event. “It is an opportunity to foster community spirit, stimulate economic growth, and promote Lüderitz as a vibrant, active town committed to the development of its people."



Requirements - The NRU tasked Van Wyk to ensure that the playing field meets required World Rugby standards, with a particular focus on player safety, and to appoint two local coordinators to liaise with for all logistical and operational arrangements. The NRU also requested that Van Wyk involve the schools in the area and organise some matches, saying it is essential for the tournament and sponsors to get the schools also involved in the day. These can be primary and secondary schools. It also can include a Get Into Rugby (GIR) program for some slots.



Growing in stature - Now firmly established as a national sports event, the Ongos Valley Sevens combines the passion of rugby with the values of community, wellness, and youth development. The Coastal Round will take place on 27 September 2025 in Walvis Bay with the Championship Round scheduled for 24 to 25 October 2025 in Windhoek. The final leg in Windhoek will bring the country together for a thrilling two-day showdown that will crown this year’s champions while offering family-friendly entertainment and activations. Following its debut in 2024, this year’s tournament promises to be bigger, with better prepared teams, greater community engagement, and elevated stakes. Sponsored to the tune of about N$ 1 million, covering the arrangement of the tournament, prize money, and logistics, the tournament focuses on youth development and creating opportunities through sports by identifying and nurturing talented sevens players who can eventually represent Namibia at the national level.