Africa-Press – Namibia. THE Okapya Annual Sport Tournament will be held at Ondangwa in December, after being displaced by the Covid-19 pandemic last year.
Despite its brief existence, the tournament has become a hot scouting platform for national top tier clubs. About 10 players spotted in action at tournaments have since gone on to play topflight football.
Following its successful debut in 2018 when 20 teams, consisting of 14 youth teams and six veteran teams, took to the field, eight more joined the fray in 2019.
The latest edition runs from 17 to 19 December at Eleven Morning Stars Sport Field near Andimba ya Toivo Airport.
“The main aim of this tournament is to bring people together during the festive season because we believe this is the only way we can reduce the crime rate, by keeping them busy with sport,” the organisers said in statement.
“Due to Covid 19 we couldn’t host the 2020 edition, but we are looking forward to a successful 2021 edition and are looking to attract more teams from all 14 regions.”
While primarily a social football competition, premier league, first division, and second division are permitted to sign up.
The organisers also plan to include at least one women’s football match to encourage a diverse competition in 2022.
In addition, an unnamed ‘Class of 98’ Brave Warriors legend will hold motivational talks with participating players on the sidelines of the tournament.
The 2021 edition is supported by Coca Cola, Top Score, John Endjala Investments, Okapya Liner Transport, Namibia Private Ambulance Services, G2G Group, Visible Communication Printing and Designs, OTB Sports, Ekamuti Lodge, Energy 100 FM, Piyet Services, Atai Investments, Omaalala Investment cc, Kashipu Investment CC, Akindaba Style and Onambula Investment Group.
The prizes are as follows:
Main category – N$10 000, trophy, 18 gold medals and football kit; N$5 000 and 18 silver medals; N$3 000 and 18 bronze medals.
Veteran Soccer (+35 years and above) – N$5 000, trophy and 18 gold medals, N$3 000 and 18 silver medals, N$2 000 and 18 bronze medals. All participating players in this category must present valid national identification.
