Martin Endjala
After securing N$3 million in a sponsorship deal with MTC, the Namibian Volleyball Federation (NVF) officially launched the first-ever MTC Volleyball National League in Windhoek over the weekend.
For the next three years, the federation will receive an injection of N$1 million per year.
The NVF president, Hillary Imbuwa, said the launch of the new league marks a new era and the beginning of growth and development for volleyball as a sport in Namibia.
“The MTC Volleyball National League stands as the pinnacle of excellence in Namibian volleyball, bringing together the finest talents from across the nation to compete in a spirited display of athleticism and sportsmanship. With 8 male and 8 female teams representing various regions, this league promises to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Namibian volleyball,” said Imbuwa.
He claims that the initiative perfectly complements the goals outlined in NVF’s current strategic plan, reaffirming our dedication to advancing the sport at all levels.
Imbuwa added that the league would traverse through multiple towns, including Katima Mulilo, Rundu, Ondangwa, Otjiwarongo, Swakopmund, and Mariental, culminating in the capital city, Windhoek.
This extensive reach, Imbuwa said, ensures that volleyball enthusiasts from all corners of the country will have the opportunity to witness top-tier competition firsthand, fostering a more profound sense of community and engagement.
MTC’s chief human capital, corporate affairs, and marketing officer, Tim Ekandjo, commended the leadership of the MTC Volleyball League for its invaluable work in ensuring that the league kicks off in record time after receiving the sponsorship.
“It was because of the sheer commitment and passion displayed by the players for the love of volleyball, even when they knew they played for as little as N$1500 as prize money at the end of the season and covered all expenses themselves. This is the same passion that we want to see throughout this league, even now that MTC is on board. That fire must continue to burn as this league commences today with eight women’s teams and eight men’s teams representing the very best of Namibian volleyball,” he said.
Ekandjo urged NVF and players to play their part in making the league attractive by coming up with marketing strategies, staying committed to their craft, remaining professional, and always protecting the brand.
He said the MTC team would assist them every step of the way; however, he urged them to play their part by protecting the league’s integrity through fairness and transparency.
Ekandjo said MTC will evaluate the league’s performance annually and assist if it does not deliver.
Meanwhile, Jo-Anne Manuel, the deputy director of the Ministry of Sport, congratulated NVF and promised her office’s support to the federation.
Manuel called for sound leadership, accountability, and professionalism in the sport, while also commending MTC for extending a hand in launching the MTC Volleyball National League in the country.
