Windhoek, Namibia – The Afrocat Sports Club Beach Volleyball league, a platform for emerging talents, successfully concluded its inaugural season on November 25, 2023. The league, which kicked off on October 7, proved to be a pivotal initiative in nurturing aspiring athletes from the suburbs of Windhoek.
Sponsored by OTB Namibia – Trophies & Medals, with Switch Energy Drink – Namibia and Architectural Outlet backing the event by sponsoring playing attires, the league attracted participants from the Central Volleyball Association, DTS Beach Volleyball players, and enthusiastic athletes from Afrocat SC.
“Managing diverse schedules among learners, students, and employed individuals was a challenge that required careful balancing and rule-setting” said League administrator Ishitile Aloisius.
Ishitile shared insights into the challenges faced during this process, emphasizing the success of the pilot program in organizing events of such caliber.
In the male category, seasoned players Simson Tanga-Omwene and Teofulus Shayuka clinched the Gold medal, showcasing their experience. Kambala Messah and Tobias Mwatelulo secured the 1st runners-up position, with Luke Brinkman and Jan-Eric Saka taking the 3rd runners-up spot. The male category featured 13 teams.
The ladies’ 2-aside witnessed the skilled pair of Kathrina Tomas and Paulina Shifingula emerging as champions. Afrocat SC’s under-17 youth girls secured the second position, and Meriam Medos and Meameno Heita displayed determination despite lacking experience, securing the third position.
The social 2-aside mix category proved to be the toughest, with the top 4 teams closely matched. Ishitile Aloisius and Alushe Sakeus claimed the Gold medals with 29 points, followed closely by Andreas Abiatar and Mayitha Andreas with 28 points. The veteran Deadmeat and his partner Meameno Heita secured the 3rd position with 27 points, while Malinda and Pius claimed the 4th position with 26 points.
The award ceremony, graced by Mr. Joseph Haufila, Chairperson of Afrocat Sports Club – Windhoek, underscored the importance of youth participation in sports as an alternative to the streets. Haufila announced Afrocat SC’s commitment to host another Beach Volleyball League next year, expressing gratitude to corporate partners for their support.
The guest speaker, Shilumbu Thomas, Beach Volleyball Director of the Central Volleyball Association, commended Afrocat SC for fostering sport growth. He highlighted the significance of Beach Volleyball for national success, praising the league as a stepping stone for emerging talents in the region. The successful conclusion of the Afrocat Sports Club Beach Volleyball League sets the stage for future seasons, promising continued growth and excitement in Namibian beach volleyball.