Maria David
THE highly anticipated Onayena Community Cup is set to return for its second edition this month, proudly named the Matheus Shoongo Community Cup.
This community sports tournament is open to all sports-active young people, primarily from the northern part of the country, and promises a vibrant display of athletic talent and community spirit.
Tournament organiser Martin-Olembe Antindi said the change in the tournament’s name serves as a mark of respect and appreciation for Matheus Shoongo, a renowned leader and businessman from the community, who is also the main sponsor of this year’s event.
According to Antindi, the Community Cup is one of several initiatives and activities spearheaded by the Onayena Development Entity (ODE).
“This constituency-based community organisation champions developmental activities within Onayena, including the organisation of Miss Onayena, community youth meetings, various youth activities, and business-related initiatives,” he said.
He added that this year’s Matheus Shoongo Community Cup will be hosted at the Guaalu Football Club sports field.
Further, Antindi added that the registration fee for the eagerly awaited soccer tournament is N$700 per team.
Exciting prizes await the top contenders: the 1st prize winner will walk away with N$10,000, a floating trophy, and gold medals; the 2nd prize is set at N$7,000 and silver medals; and the 3rd prize will be N$5,000 and bronze medals.
Beyond the competitive sport, Antindi said that the event also offers opportunities for aspiring young entrepreneurs and businesspeople to showcase their ventures.
He indicated that stalls of any type can be registered for a fee of N$400, fostering local commerce and innovation.
Antindi said a unique health-keeping exercise has been initiated, where residents living south of the Red Line will form the “Owushimba Legends” team to compete against local dwellers and “Northern Legends” as the “Owambo team.”
“This friendly match is all about fostering good spirit and promoting good health within the community,” he added.
He indicated that the funds raised from the Matheus Shoongo Community Cup will be directed towards a crucial charitable initiative: assisting less fortunate and vulnerable young people in the community and surrounding areas.
Specifically, these funds will be used to provide underprivileged learners with essential school-related needs such as stationery and school uniforms.
