Monica Shapwa has resigned as FNB Women Super League and FC Ongos Ladies chairperson, stepping down at the summit of Namibian women’s football.
In a letter, which The Namibian Sport has seen, Shapwa says: “Please take a moment to read this message, as it is one of the hardest letters I have ever had to write.
“Please accept this note as formal notification that I have officially resigned from my position on the FNB WSL Committee, effective immediately.”
She says it was not an overnight decision, nor was it made in haste.
“It is a step I have considered for some time, and after deep reflection, I know the timing is right.”
Shapwa says she believes the decision is in the best interest of football, “especially for the development, equity, and future of girls”.
She has also tendered her resignation as chairperson of FC Ongos Ladies.
“From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every one of you for believing in me,” she says.
“We drove the professionalisation of the league, broke barriers by introducing professional player contracts, and secured a monumental multi-million dollar FNB sponsorship renewal,” she lists as achievements.
“We also made monthly club grants and travel allowances a reality. None of this would have been possible without your immense personal sacrifices and investments. You are the true heartbeat of this league.”
Shapwa says the FNB Women Super League deserves leadership that can sustain and build on the current momentum.
“Stepping aside to allow a new leader with fresh perspectives to step forward is exactly what is needed to push our boundaries even further,” she says.
“To my incredible players and my dedicated technical team, they say a good dancer knows when to leave the stage.
“Not easy to have come to this decision while thinking of all of you, and knowing what we have just achieved together, I know this is my time to step down,” Shapwa says.
