Maria David
THE first-ever PstBet sport tournament attracted a total of 118 teams in both Soccer and Netball, an indication that sport development is much-needed in the northern part of the country.
Of the total figures, 102 teams registered to participate in soccer after the organisers had to reduce the number of teams by 53 teams to bring them to 102. A total of 16 teams registered for netball.
The tournament is set for 21 to 30 October at Ongobe Yaola village in the area of Omungwelume in the Ohangwena Region.
The tournament attracted teams from all 14 regions.
Founder of PstBet, Steven Hamunyela, said they want to develop the country and sport in general, hence the hosting of the tournament.
Hamunyela made the remarks during the draw and launching of tournament held at Omungwelume settlement on Saturday, saying that the tournament was established as a way of giving back to their supporters who have been through thick and thin.
“If it was not because of the individuals supporting us, then PstBet will not have been in existence,” he said.
Hamunyela indicated that this will be an annual tournament.
Further, all the teams that reach the semi-finals will be sponsored sporting gears and transport for their tournament.
In his welcoming remarks, Fritz Nghishulwa, said that bringing sport to the far-reaching areas in the North is a clear indication of ensuring development.
Nghishulwa stressed that sport unite people and it has no borders, but make people feel as one globe village.
“Through soccer people unite, live in harmony and build last-longing relationships among the people,” he said.
He then urged the players to remain committed and disciplined to ensure a successful hosting of the tournament.
The winner of the tournament in the soccer category will walk away with a floating trophy, gold medals and N$25 000.
Meanwhile, the second runner-up will get N$17 500 and silver medals, while the third runner-up will get N$7 500 and bronze medals.
In the netball category, the first runner-up as the winner will walk away with N$10 000, a floating trophy and gold medals. The second runner-up will get N$7 500 and silver medals and third place will get N$2 500 and bronze medals.
