Banner Left
Banner Right

Namibian squash receives international recognition 

Adri Lambert, the president of the Namibia Squash Association. Photo contributed

Namibian squash received international recognition this week when the president of the Namibian Squash Association, Adri Lambert, was appointed as the vice chairperson of the World Squash Development Organisation’s executive board.

Lambert yesterday said the announcement came as a big surprise.

“I didn’t apply for the position so it was a big surprise for me. We’ve been in regular communication with the World Squash Organisation, and I previously served on the executive board alongside 18 other members from across the globe.

“I believe this ongoing engagement and shared passion for the sport led to my appointment,” she said.

“Namibia has received tremendous praise from the organisation for our efforts in developing and promoting squash, which is a collective achievement that I’m very proud of. This new role is both an honour and a wonderful opportunity to further contribute to the growth of squash on a global scale, and I’m looking forward to what we can accomplish together,” she added.

Lambert said she was hopeful that her appointment will benefit Namibian squash.

“At the moment, I do not have much information yet on what my specific duties will be. However, Namibia is definitely receiving some well-deserved international recognition, and I am hopeful that this appointment will bring benefits to Namibian squash. Even if it simply means having access to information and updates about squash developments worldwide before others, it would be valuable,” she said.

“Additionally, this role provides a great opportunity to gain experience and strengthen our global connections, which can further enhance the growth of squash in Namibia. It’s an exciting step forward, and I look forward to seeing how we can use this platform to promote the sport locally,” she said.

Regarding this year’s activities, Lambert said the calendar is packed with exciting events to look forward to, starting with the Wanderers Juniors Tournament on 25 January and the first senior tournament, the SFC Open at Swakopmund from 14 February.

Namibia will once again participate in the South African Country Districts tournament to be held in Somerset West from 1 to 3 May, as well as the Growthpoint Interprovincial Tournament from 7 to 11 July in Gqeberha.

Lambert said the Namibian squash fraternity can once again look forward to some international competition on home soil.

“The Professional Squash Association event will once again be held in conjunction with the Namibian Open, which is scheduled for 23 to 27 September. We are hopeful that we can make it even bigger and better than last year, attracting top players and providing a fantastic showcase of squash. It’s an exciting opportunity to further grow the sport in Namibia and highlight our players on an international stage,” she said.

According to Lambert, squash in Namibia is improving.

“Especially with the high-performance programme we started last year. This initiative is aimed at enhancing our players’ skills, and we are hopeful it will continue to yield positive results as we progress with it this year,” she said.

“That said, there is still a lot of work to be done, particularly when comparing ourselves to stronger squash nations like South Africa.

“However, we are making steady progress, and with continued dedication and development efforts, we are slowly but surely closing the gap. It’s an exciting time for Namibian squash, and I’m optimistic about the future.”

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!

Latest News