Football, professionalism and life after the game

In a recent interview on the 'Sports with Micky' podcast, Peter Haufiku, Namibia’s sole Fifa-registered agent and owner of Elifila Premium Sports Agency (EPSA), offered insights into the world of sports management and the values driving his agency.With six footballers under his wing, namely homegrown players like the brothers Edmar and Joslin Kamatuka, Willy Stephanus, Romeo Kasume, Kamaijanda Ndisiro and Fiolo Vliete, Haufiku touched on tailored guidance, professionalism and long-term planning for athletes.“Football is where our hearts lie,” Haufiku said, acknowledging the agency’s decision to step back from other sports like rugby and netball due to limited networks and resources.He said the strategy ensures the agency can deliver the best possible opportunities for its clients, a principle Haufiku values deeply.“Sometimes if you bite off more than you can chew, your reputation goes with it, and that's never good,” he said.Supporting professionals EPSA actively facilitates international trials and contracts, but Haufiku stressed the importance of patience in negotiations.“You don’t speak about it until the pen is on the paper,” he advised.By leveraging his global football connections, Haufiku ensures players secure contracts aligned with their value and market position.According to Haufiku, Namibia still lacks a fully professional league and often leaves players vulnerable to accepting subpar offers.Beyond contracts, EPSA emphasised preparing athletes for life after football. With most players retiring by their mid-30s, Haufiku advises clients on education, business planning and endorsement opportunities to establish sustainable income streams.“It’s lovely to be a professional footballer, but that’s not going to sustain you long-term. What’s your plan for the years after retirement?”Healthy partnershipsFurthermore, Haufiku shed light on the critical role agents play in shielding players from potential pitfalls, such as exploitative contracts or damaging endorsements.“We always want to align players with brands they believe in and avoid partnerships that could conflict with their careers,” he explained.While EPSA's focus remains on football, the agency’s vision includes expanding into youth development, leveraging its Fifa licence to scout and nurture young talent. “Raw talent is essential, but professionalism is what sets players apart,” Haufiku emphasised.

Football, professionalism and life after the game

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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Football, professionalism and life after the game

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Namibian Sun 2025-04-04

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