Erasmus Shalihaxwe
Seven Namibian swimmers are competing at the World Aquatics Junior Swimming Championships in Otopeni, Romania, this week.
The event is seen as a step in preparing for upcoming regional, continental, and world tournaments.
Namibia Aquatic Sports Federation (NASFED) president Riaan Steyn said the swimmers face a busy calendar with the Africa Youth Games, Youth Olympics, Commonwealth Games, Youth Commonwealth Games, and qualifications for the 2028 Olympic Games all ahead.
“This event is a great platform, and further step, for our NASFED athletes towards qualification for upcoming events such as the Africa Youth Games, Youth Olympics, Commonwealth and Youth Commonwealth Games, and then going on towards qualifying for the Olympics in 2028,” he said.
Steyn thanked the Namibian National Olympic Committee, the government, and sponsors for their support.
“We cannot thank the Namibian National Olympic Committee enough for the financial assistance and belief in the future of our athletes. We also cannot fail to mention the wonderful assistance we had from the government prior to the Region 5 Games in preparing these athletes by way of a fully government-sponsored training camp. It is also evident that this is the first time in 10 years that we can match the largest team ever sent to these championships,” he said.
He explained that three swimmers who competed at the Africa Schools Games had also qualified for the Junior Worlds but missed out due to entry cut-off times. Steyn also acknowledged local sponsors.
“Thank you to our local sponsors such as Bank Windhoek and the Pupkewitz Foundation, whose kind assistance helps by laying the foundations for these elite swimmers through their sponsorship of the local galas and swim events,” he said.
The Namibian team in Romania includes Oliver Durand, Luke Beukes, Lorenzo Esterhuizen, Jessica Humphrey, Madison Bergh, Roselinda Matyayi, and Ainoa Naukosho.
Head coach Jean Leitner said the team has settled in well and were adapting to the competition environment.
“Today we had our first adaptation session in the competition pool. It was awesome to see the team in action. They were all smiles, loving the new setup, and getting comfortable with the water. You could feel the excitement, but they were also serious when it counted. It’s great to see that mix of fun and focus, just what we need,” she said.
Leitner added that the atmosphere in camp reflected the team’s spirit
“ Everyone’s supportive, attentive, and really soaking in the whole experience. The vibe is very Namibian, friendly, humble, and full of heart. I’m feeling good about how things are shaping up, and I can’t wait to see the athletes give their all over the next few days,” Leitner said.
