Oshakati’s biggest soccer and netball tournament for primary and combined schools, the Metropolitan Summer Cup, was launched at the Oshakati Country Hotel on Thursday, 7th July 2011.
The Metropolitan Summer Cup has become a household name amongst learners, teachers, coaches and referees alike.
Currently in its fifth edition, the event has attracted 4 100 learners over the past four years situated in the Ohangwena, Oshana, Omusati and Oshikoto regions.
Athletes participating in the three month tournament will have the opportunity to showcase their talent and enhance their skills on the soccer and netball courts.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director for Metropolitan Namibia, Jason Nandago stated that Metropolitan Namibia was proud to be associated with the development and nurturing of young talented athletes in the northern region as sport development formed a very strategic role within Metropolitan Namibia’s corporate social responsibility structure, which enabled athletes to maintain a healthy lifestyle, away from harmful substances.
“Regional leagues such as the Metropolitan Summer Cup have played a pivotal role in shaping our youngsters for the National Teams in both soccer and netball. We have also seen many athletes succeed and make a career from sport, either as an athlete, coach, official or sports administrator,” commented Nandago.
During his keynote address, the Deputy Minister of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture, Pohamba Shifeta emphasized the need for discipline in sport, as a successful team was dependant on the discipline and commitment of its coaches and especially its athletes. He also noted the importance of development amongst the youth, as the investment made today had an impact on future national teams.
This year’s sponsorship of N$85 000 will ensure that teams progressing through to the finals are rewarded with sporting gear, medals and prize money being given to the netball and soccer teams.
Organised in partnership with the Ministry of Youth, National Service, Sport and Culture’s Oshakati office, the regional tournaments will be played every weekend and the finals are scheduled for the first weekend in October.