Africa-Press – Namibia. Veteran golfer Joe Nawanga says the potential demonstrated by junior golfer Samuel ‘Sam’ Nel during the recent Africa Youth Games in Luanda, Angola, has shown that Namibia can produce world-class golfers.
In an exclusive interview with Desert FM recently, Nawanga said he is delighted to see the country was represented in golf at the December Africa Youth Games.
“I’ve personally worked with Nel and laid the foundation for him. But he is a multi-talented fellow. He was one of the best junior tennis players, and he is also a pianist… travelled to South Africa to compete.”
Nawanga said it is “phenomenal” to see Nel play the piano.
“There was a time that his father came to talk to me. Since he was good at both tennis and piano, his father wanted my honest opinion about golf.”
Nawanga said he told Nel’s father to give him an opportunity to explore more, “and when he grows up he will see what he is good at”.
Nel won a silver medal for Namibia at the fourth Africa Youth Games, marking a significant achievement for Namibian junior golf.
The Walvis Bay-born player secured the silver in the junior men’s golf event, placing second behind Zimbabwe’s Munesu Chimhini.
“Eventually, Nel’s parents knew this guy wanted to play golf. So now, as we speak, I think he is one of the best junior golfers in the country, considering what he did in Luanda,” Nawanga said.
Nawanga said Nel’s exceptional display has put Namibia on the continental map through golf, and that in itself is an achievement.
“We want to see youngsters representing golf, not only in Namibia but putting Namibia on the international stage.”
Nawanga believes Namibia’s golf talent is concentrated at the coast.
“There is something happening at the coast. I am a Swakopmunder, and these guys are my neighbours.”
The veteran golfer, who last year featured in two Sunshine tours, said junior golfer Kyle Johnson has also been doing very well.
He said Johnson featured in various national junior teams and has earned himself national colours.
“I don’t know how many times, but he is forever on the national junior team. He won various national amateur tournaments.
“The boy, just like Nel, is talented beyond reasonable doubt. These guys could be our next superstars.”
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