Namibian Inline Hockey confirms action-packed calendar

The Namibian Ice and Inline Hockey Association (NIIHA) anticipates another memorable season, starting with a tournament at Otjiwarongo on 20 March.

The event marks the first of five competitions leading up to the ‘Champion Tournament’ at the end of the year. Four clubs will battle for glory across 11 divisions in over 140 games, showcasing about 400 of Namibia’s best talents. The association has also announced the addidtion of a Junior Ladies division.

One of the clubs chasing honours are Scorpions, who recently welcomed back Spanish coach Imanol Cárcamo Rodríguez. With prior coaching experience in Namibia, Rodríguez brings a wealth of knowledge and a renewed vision to further develop the club.

“I have been playing hockey for almost 25 years and started coaching in 2010. Since then, I have coached different teams in Spain, Namibia and Belgium – both in development categories and at the highest level,” Rodríguez says.

The ex-Spanish international says his best coaching accomplishment was launching Belgium’s national women’s inline hockey programme.

“Before I started, there was no national women’s team, and in just three years, we finished 12th at the World Roller Games in Italy last year,” he says.

Rodríguez draws wisdom from experiencing different hockey cultures: “Every country has its challenges, but I believe that being supportive and honest with your players will help you succeed in any environment,” he says.

His coaching philosophy is built on positivity and open communication.

“I am approachable and don’t like to ‘build a wall’ between myself and the players. I try to stay close to them and make practices fun while keeping a competitive mindset.”

Rodríguez coached in Namibia in 2019 and says he is thrilled to return to the ‘Land of the Brave’.

“The level of hockey pleasantly surprised me, and people were incredibly friendly and helpful. So when Scorpions contacted me, I got very excited about coming back,” Rodríguez explains.

Since leaving, he has followed Namibia’s progress and is impressed by the country’s growing hockey scene.

“The level keeps improving, which is great to see.”

Despite the positive developments, the coach sees challenges ahead.

“Right now, we don’t have many players in the older divisions, which will be something to work on,” he notes.

Nevertheless, his goal is clear: “I want to help develop the club further, refine our technical skills and continue fostering a strong, competitive and supportive hockey culture.”