The Erongo regional netball team aims to improve on last year’s performance at the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup, focusing on competitiveness, youth development, and structured preparations.
Responding to questions by The Namibian Sport, team manager Mathilde Nicolo says: “Our objective this year is to be highly competitive and improve on our previous performance.”
She says the team is focused on reaching the knockout stages and ultimately contending for the title.
“We aim to showcase a disciplined, structured, and high-intensity netball,” Nicolo says.
“Following last year’s performance, the regional netball leadership has provided support through better coordination, training camps, and continuous engagement with the technical team. Our overall objective is to build a strong, sustainable under-19 structure that consistently produces competitive teams,” the team manager says.
As for the team’s composition, Nicolo says she has brought in new players, with only two from the previous squad that represented the region at Outjo.
“We respect all regions. However, teams that have consistently performed well in previous editions pose a strong challenge due to their experience and structured systems. That said, we are focused on our own preparations.”
Erongo is placed in Group A, alongside Hardap, Omusati, Ohangwena, Kunene and host region ||Kharas.
Nicolo says she reached out to local businesses, but there has never been support.
“We’ve had great support from institutions like Erongo Red, the Erongo Regional Council, the Office of the Governor, and the directorate of education in the past. However, we’d like to extend an appeal to local businesses to join forces with regional structures to make this activity a success. By doing so, we’ll create opportunities for our young people to shine on the national stage.”
She adds that trials were conducted fairly and transparently.
“Efforts were made to ensure that all constituencies were represented, giving equal opportunity to talented players across the region.”
Nicolo says they have received good support from both political and traditional leaders, adding that they recognise the importance of youth development through sport.
“The regional netball leadership has made efforts to ensure the team is properly equipped. Where new gear was not fully secured, existing resources have been well maintained to ensure professionalism.”
She says the technical team is well-structured, consisting of the head coach, assistant coach, team manager, and support staff.
She adds that medical support has been prioritised to ensure player welfare, fitness, and injury management throughout the tournament.
“We believe we have a talented and balanced squad with sufficient depth in all positions to compete at a high level and challenge for the championship.
“Our biggest challenge will be maintaining consistency and managing pressure throughout the tournament, especially during the transition from group stages to knockout rounds.
“We are confident in our preparations and look forward to representing our region with pride,” she says.
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