The floorball team, the Brave Boys, intend to enjoy every moment of their Special Olympics World Winter Games adventure in Italy.
The multi-sport event gets underway in Turin tomorrow and runs until 16 March.
Team captain Quinton Gaeb says they are excited about taking part in their first international competition.
Special Olympics Namibia (SON) qualified for the 2025 World Winter Games after a strong showing at the 2024 National Floorball Games in Windhoek. The team that advanced to the World Winter Games was from Môreson Special School for pupils with intellectual disabilities.
“We’re very happy. It’s our first time going to Europe. We are excited to go and meet other athletes. We are going to enjoy and have fun with other athletes,” Gaeb said during the team’s farewell reception in Windhoek yesterday.
Floorball is a hockey-style game played on a 20×12 metre court with four players on each team. The goal is to score more goals than the other team.
SON director Levien Smith, the head of delegation, believes the team will do well on its global debut.
More than 1 500 athletes from 100 delegations will compete in eight sport codes in an international demonstration of inclusion, acceptance and unity.
“Only five countries in Africa will take teams to the Winter Games. We received a quota for one traditional male team with eight players. The term traditional means all players have an intellectual impairment,” Smith said.
“The team named themselves ‘Brave Boys’, because despite their many challenges, they stay brave in their attempts. The team is well prepared. They have trained very hard and are ready to show the world what happens when you create opportunities for all,” said Smith.
“Your story will inspire others with special needs and show there’s ability in disability. We’re going to enjoy this game.”
Minister of sport, youth and national service Agnes Tjongarero, who saw the Brave Boys off, had special words of encouragement for the team.
She said Namibians typically excel at whatever challenges they commit to.
“This moment is not just about sport; it is about resilience, determination and the unbreakable spirit of our Namibian athletes, who are about to showcase their talent on the world stage,” said Tjongarero, who added that the team will receive N$403 800 for their Italian sojourn.
“These Games remind us that every individual, regardless of ability, has the right to participate, to compete, and to shine. And, you are going to shine there,” Tjongarero continued.
“You are more than just athletes — you are ambassadors of hope, perseverance and excellence. As you embark on this journey, remember that you are carrying the hopes and dreams of an entire nation.
“Your hard work, dedication and discipline have brought you to this moment, and no matter the outcome, you have already made Namibia proud.”
The Brave Boys are Quinton Gaeb, Hashiti Henock, Fredricks Moses, Salufu Limbo, Tjiramba Uaundjombura, Katjivive Kawatengere, Tuneeko Vependukirapo and Marco Titus.
The team also consists of six officials. They are Levien Smith, SON board member and assistant head of delegation Tangeni Amupadhi, head coach Werner Jeffery, team doctor Dr Iyaloo Numbuwa and assistant coach Kenerazo ‘Rocky’ Mendu.
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
