Hilarius Hamutenya
Netball in the Oshana region is grappling with financial difficulties due to a lack of sponsorship, according to Oshana Netball Association chairperson, Foibe Neliwa.
“We are facing big challenges, and we currently have a committee where every member contributes N$100 to support netball. Unfortunately, we do not have enough sponsors to assist us,” Neliwa stated.
Joleni Shipopyeni, the goal shooter for Afrocat Lions Oshana, reflected on her journey in netball, which began in Ongudi village in the Omungwelume-Ongenga constituency.
Her exposure to the sport grew during her time at Gabriel Taapopi Senior Secondary School in 2003-2004, where she played as a shooter for the school’s first team.
Shipopyeni highlighted the challenges that teams in the region face, including a severe lack of financial support, proper training equipment, and facilities to enhance player fitness.
“Many of the players are either unemployed or students, so we have to pool our resources to cover costs for transport, accommodation, and meals when travelling for games,” she explained.
She also pointed out the significant disparity in prize money between netball and other sports codes during competitions.
“There is a lack of interest in netball and many potential sport sponsors and for those who host tournaments, there is always a very big gap in prices to be won between netball and other sports codes,” she said.
Junias Shaamange, Managing Director of Classic Betting Services (CBS), is one of the few business people who contributed toward the growth of netball in the region.
His company’s support for netball, including the provision of clothing, balls, and other equipment to netball teams.
“We are doing this with many teams in the region. Hopefully, other companies, especially the big ones, will follow suit,” he said.
