• Rugby

Thrilling sevens programme awaits in Swakopmund

• 1 Week Ago 26 September 2024

This Saturday rugby lovers can head to the Vineta Central Stadium in Swakopmund, as the day promises fast-paced, high-tempo sevens action.

This is according to Rowhan Besser, chairman of the Simonis Storm Dolphin, the rugby club which is simultaneously hosting the annual Day of the Dolphin.

However, this year the Ongos Valley Sevens will also join the action-packed day, as its coastal leg will take place at the same venue.

“Spectators can expect something new this weekend! The sevens rugby and netball will feature fast-paced, high-tempo games. I think Namibia’s senior-level sports need a bit of adrenaline,” said Besser.

He explained that the decision to combine the Ongos Valley Sevens and the Day of the Dolphin 7s was made to boost Namibian sevens rugby.

“We believe Namibia can and needs to become more active in sevens rugby again and compete more regularly against other countries. Look at countries like Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria and Zimbabwe – they host sevens club tournaments almost every month.”

On the day, there will be two categories. “The Ongos Valley Sevens and the Day of the Dolphin Sevens will each play for their own trophies.

“The Day of Dolphin Sevens consists of Premier League clubs, while the Ongos Valley 7s features four first-league clubs,” Besser explained.

The southern round of the Ongos Valley Sevens series kicked off last weekend in Keetmanshoop, where Oranjemund was crowned the champion. A dream team from the south was selected to compete when the series concludes in Windhoek on 5 October. A women’s tournament will also be part of the Ongos Valley Sevens activities on 4 October.

In this Saturday’s Swakopmund round, the teams contesting are Sparta and Oceans RC (both from Walvis Bay), Okahandja Highlanders and Vipers (Windhoek).

For the Day of the Dolphin, the defending champion is Unam Rugby Club.

“I know Unam would love to retain the title and win it a second consecutive year. However, I think Dolphin is eager to make their mark. Everything will be decided this weekend,” Besser added.



Netball added

Aside from great rugby action, there will also be netball.

“There will be 12 netball teams, including three or four mixed teams, where a few rugby players will participate just for fun. The netball games will start at 08:00 and end around 18:00, with nearly 30 matches scheduled,” said Besser.

He called on the local and surrounding communities to come out in numbers.

“Support local sports in our country. Bring your children; there will be entertainment for them as well. Beer tents, delicious braai meat, and food stalls will be available.

“The plan is to expand and include other sports, eventually turning it into a sports festival. The dream is big, and we believe in it,” he said.

The official opening of the rugby games is set to take place from 09:30 to 10:00, with the first kick-off at 10:00 between Dolphin and Western Suburbs.

The Ongos Valley Sevens finals will be at 18:00, followed by the Day of the Dolphin playoffs at 18:20.