Desert Jewels stars Mwale Mulenamaswe and Cornelia Mupenda’s inclusion in the Singapore’s lucrative Netball Super League is recognition of the talent in Namibia, says Netball Namibia (NN) vice president for development Juanitha Witbeen.
The Netball Super League, which started on Saturday, is a five-month, 15-round tournament developed to cater for elite players.
Speaking to Desert FM this week, Witbeen said the two defenders are a product of Netball Namibia’s ongoing strategies to elevate the sport in the country.
“It is a remarkable achievement,” she said.
“Basically, it is all because of the hard work we ploughed into the federation.
“Thanks to our sponsors and the Ministry of Sport, Youth and National Service supporting us to go outside of the country to play in international competitions where our star defenders were scouted,” she said.
Witbeen said the signing of the two players means Namibian netball players are among the world’s recognisable talents.
“Netball in Namibia is really picking up significantly, with Namibia having hosted the 2024 Africa Netball Cup in Swakopmund, where we showcase our talent, and indeed we are moving in the right direction,” she said.
“For us it is very important that we have our players playing internationally, be it on the African continent or abroad.”
Mulenamaswe played for the Namibia Correctional Service in the Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) Premier Netball League, while Mulenamaswe, who was named the best defender in the MTC Namibia Netball League last season, said she would grab the chance to showcase her talent abroad with both hands.
“This opportunity means a huge milestone in my netball career. It represents discipline, constant improvement in my netball skills, hard work and dedication,” she said.
“Also, it’s not only an individual representation, it’s an opportunity to represent my country, the Land of the Brave.
“This awards me exposure to different styles of playing netball at the highest level, experience new cultures, and build friendships across borders for life,” she said.
“It opens doors for me to grow – not only as an athlete but as an individual in general. Hopefully this inspires someone out there to never stop dreaming.
“This is not just my dream, it’s a dream for many players,” Mulenamaswe said.
Mupenda already has experience playing abroad through the University of Johannesburg in the South African Netball League.
“Mupenda is studying towards an advanced diploma in communications with the University of Johannesburg, and is employed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security,” Witbeen said.
“The two will be the only Namibian players playing professional netball outside the borders of the country. I think the doors have now opened up slightly, and players can compete in various leagues around the world,” she said.
Witbeen said with this positive development a lot will follow.
The NN vice president said Namibia is now in a position where the country can compete internationally with confidence and determination to take on the so-called powerhouses of African netball and the world.
“Those days when Namibia was simply a pushover are certainly gone,” Witbeen said.
“Our goal is to be part of the Commonwealth Games, and we are looking forward to one day playing in the world cup.”
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!
