Just Saying with Matts Haikali

29 Sep

ObserverSports, UncategorisedJust Saying with Matts Haikali

Namibia, as a country stands at a cross road as far as sports is concerned. In a world where sports have transcended boundaries and become a global spectacle, the need for countries to invest in sports facilities and their maintenance has never been more critical. The recent hosting of an international rated Four Nation Squash tournament by Wanderers Sports Club, says a lot about what potential the country has, if we put our money in ensuring that our sports facilities are of international standard. Am just saying, we must start thing not only about nurturing local talent and promoting a…

22 Sep

Just Saying with Matts Haikali

ObserverOpinions, SportsJust Saying with Matts Haikali

In the world of sports, fairness and equity should be fundamental principles, ensuring that competition thrives on merit rather than the size of one’s pocket. Unfortunately, in the MTC Premier Netball League, there is a disconcerting trend, with government-funded institutions dominating the league, while community-funded teams struggle to keep pace. Teams such as wanders, united, Black Africa, Tigers used to be competitive, but that’s the story of the past. Am just saying, this glaring discrepancy is not merely a reflection of superior resources, but a challenge to the core values of sportsmanship and equality that we hold dear. The MTC…

17 Sep

Just Saying with Matts Haikali

ObserverOpinions, SportsJust Saying with Matts Haikali

I have been following keenly the various tournament being organized around the country and I have observed a very sutle but disturbing trend amongst the organizer. While the promotions of mass participation in sports is important. I have a feeling something is not right somewhere.Am just saying , in an era where progress towards gender equality is being championed across the globe, it remains disheartening to witness disparities persisting within the realm of sports rewards in Namibia at community level.The question arises: Why do women’s sports tournaments often receive fewer rewards than their male counterparts? While it is crucial to…

08 Sep

Just Saying with Matts Haikali

ObserverOpinions, SportsJust Saying with Matts Haikali, Namibia football legends

As I reflect on the events of the past week, where Namibia football legends gathered to play in Rundu and Otjiwarongo, I am struck by a mixture of emotions. The nostalgia of witnessing these icons relive their youthful prowess on the very fields that once nurtured their talents is undeniable. However, this emotional journey is intertwined with a stark realization – the state of the dilapidated once-vibrant sports facilities, where they honed their skills. Am just saying the sight around some of the towns,of these deteriorated facilities serves as a testament to the neglect that has plagued them over the…

25 Aug

Just Saying with Matts Haikali

ObserverSportsin the Kavango East, Just Saying with Matts Haikali, residents of Rundu

This past two weeks, I have had the privilege to be hosted by the loving residents of Rundu, in the Kavango East region. In the realm of sports, the transformation of a town into a dynamic hub for athletes and enthusiasts can be a game-changer. Rundu, nestled in the heart of the region, has the potential to step onto the international sports stage with the right strategy. The recent turnout at a local sporting event demonstrate the need for more investments in sports, both by the local authority and central government. Am just saying by revitalizing existing facilities and establishing…

11 Aug

Just Saying with Matts Haikali

ObserverSportsFutsal Namibia, Just Saying with Matts Haikali, Matts Haikali

Staff Writer Futsal Namibia was set up in 2020, and has been offering men and women, boys and girls, with an opportunity to play the game in an indoor setting, at the Windhoek Show ground hall in Windhoek. Futsal is played in both professional and amateur leagues but also in schools and most of futsal academies as a strategy to improve players’ development (Barbero-Alvarez et al., 2008). There has been an increase in popularity which can be confirmed by the rising number of male and female participants, and with it recent admission into the football family in Namibia by the…