Welwitschias squad named, NRU boosts school rugby

The Namibia Rugby Union (NRU) has officially announced the 30-man Welwitschias squad set to take on South Africa’s Boland Kavaliers in a friendly clash at Hage Geingob Stadium this Saturday. The highly anticipated match serves as a crucial test for the national team as they prepare for upcoming international commitments.

In a major development for grassroots rugby, the NRU has also signed a landmark agreement with the Namibia Schools Sports Union (NSSU) to enhance talent scouting and development within schools across the country. This initiative is expected to boost rugby at the youth level and create a more structured pathway for players to progress to the national stage.

NRU vice president Johan Diergaardt emphasised the importance of the partnership with NSSU, stating: "In the world of sports, and more specifically in rugby, Dr. Nujoma's legacy reminds us of the transformative power of teamwork and community. Rugby is a sport deeply intertwined with our national identity, fostering camaraderie and mutual respect among players and supporters alike." He further noted: "One of the key aspects we had never been involved in before was school rugby and its development. This new agreement has now opened doors for us to enter school rugby, share our expertise with schools, and support them by providing coaches and coaching courses."

Namibia Schools Sports Union (NSSU) chairperson, Roger Kambatuka, highlighted the importance of aligning school rugby with the national federation’s goals. "The NSSU is the umbrella body for school sports. When we conduct development activities in schools, we must acknowledge that rugby, as a sport, is governed by the federation. Our goal is to bridge the gap between the two, ensuring that all rugby-related activities at schools align with the federation’s vision for the sport."

Tribute to late Founding Father, Sam Nujoma

The press conference also paid special tribute to the country’s late Founding Father, Sam Nujoma, recognising his contributions to the country and the sporting community. His unwavering support for sports development was acknowledged as a key factor in the continued growth of rugby in Namibia.



Welwitschias squad for Boland Kavaliers clash:

1. Sydney Halupe

2. Edward Drotsky

3. ason Benade (VC)

4. Ruan Ludick

5. Diamando Tjombe

6. Cameron Langenhoven

7. Bakkies Rossouw

8. Adriaan Booysen

9. Jacques Theron

10. Denzo Bruwer

11. Jurgens Meyer

12. Danco Burger (C)

13. Alcino Isaacs

14. Owen Hawanga

15. Aston Mukwilongo



Reserves:

Kevin Cloete

Wikus Jacobs

Renard Hattingh

Thiaart Lindtveldt

Joe Losper

Gilad Plaatjies

Rowan Jansen

Kian Beyer

AJ Kearns

Geraldo Beukes

Hillian Beukes

JD Nel

Dylan Isaacs

Natie Janse van Rensburg

Quirione Majiedt



The match against Boland Kavaliers promises to be a thrilling encounter, providing the Welwitschias with a valuable opportunity to test their squad depth and preparations ahead of future competitions. Catch all the action live on DStv channel 285 and GOtv channel 25. The game will also be livestreamed on our digital channel (www.oneuptwo.com).