Review: Namibian volleyball comes alive

In 2024, Namibia was treated to thrilling non-stop volleyball action following the introduction of the National Volleyball League.

The inaugural competition featured teams from across Namibia, using a format that brought matches to the regions from which the teams originate.

Starting in Windhoek and culminating at Swakopmund, the league created an exciting and vibrant atmosphere that captivated not only diehard volleyball fans but also spectators.

With MTC’s backing, the league contributed to elevating the sport with more Namibians following its progress, says Namibia Volleyball Federation (NVF) secretary general Festus Amukwaya.

“With sponsorships from MTC and Bank Windhoek, the league achieved unprecedented visibility through live-streaming and NBC coverage, boosting both player and technical team development,” says Amukwaya, who believes the electrifying occasion at Katima Mulilo encapsulated the season.

“The crowd was amazing, the turnout was excellent – most importantly the clashes between NCS and NDF-R, as well as NCS and Khomas Nampol.”

The sponsors expressed satisfaction with the NVF’s leadership, praising their dedication and drive to grow the sport code.

“At the end of every year, we review our sponsorships to assess growth and performance. It’s very good,” says MTC corporate communications officer Erasmus Nekundi, highlighting his organisation’s commitment to supporting various Namibian sports.

“We like that because you might have noticed that these guys normally have a parade within the town to create or attract attention and interest. And that’s what we want because we want people to realise that volleyball is one of the great sports in the country.”

Looking ahead, Amukwaya is optimistic about an even stronger 2025 season and the reintroduction of national volleyball teams.

“We can see that volleyball is no longer an infant sport. It’s a big sport, and we need to take it to another level. We are looking forward to a more productive, bigger and better season in 2025, and also the reintroduction of the national volleyball team by God’s will in 2025.”

Former NVF president Hillary Dux Imbuwa says securing the league sponsorship proved to be a turning point for the fortunes of volleyball in the country.

“It was incredibly gratifying to see all our hard work pay off. Securing the sponsorship was a pivotal moment for the NVF, and seeing the national league come to life with the support of our partners [MTC] made me feel proud.

“It was testament to the collective effort and the belief in the NVF leadership’s potential. Watching the first game take place, knowing that it was made possible through those partnerships, gave me a great sense of achievement.”

Reflecting on the landmark first season, he praised the league’s progress despite logistical challenges. This progress was down to strong community engagement and competitive energy in every town.

“The games were high energy and well received, with each town bringing its own unique flavour to the league. The community engagement and the competitive spirit on display from one town to the next were exceptional. I believe we have built a strong foundation for future seasons and I’m excited to see how it evolves,” he says.

Imbuwa highlights several standout moments.

“One that really stood out was the fourth round hosted at Katima Mulilo at the Unam Hall, where the atmosphere was electric. The excitement from the fans, the intense competition and the way the local teams elevated their performance was unforgettable.”