The Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service, Agnes Tjongarero, along with prominent figures from the rugby community, bid an enthusiastic farewell to a squad of 31 players this week. These athletes are set to proudly represent Namibia at the upcoming Rugby World Cup hosted in France.
The Rugby World Cup, one of the most anticipated sporting spectacles worldwide, is poised to captivate audiences starting September 8th until October 28th. This year's event is expected to draw in over 50 million viewers, underlining its global appeal.
Namibia's national rugby team, the Welwitschias, are gearing up to exhibit their prowess on the international stage. Their participation marks the seventh time the Namibian men's rugby team has taken part in the prestigious tournament, highlighting their enduring dedication to the sport.
In the words of Minister Agnes Tjongarero, "We send off the mighty Namibia Rugby team as they embark on their journey to the Rugby World Cup in Paris. As we stand here, we reflect upon the blood, sweat, and tears shed by these remarkable men—countless hours on the training field and the sacrifices made for this pursuit of excellence."
Johan Diergaardt, Vice-President of the Namibia Rugby Union, expressed his pride in the team's consistent qualification for the tournament. Given Namibia's relatively small population of 2.5 million, this accomplishment resonates deeply, symbolizing their character, history, and potential for greatness.
Anticipation and expectations are high for the Welwitschias' performance. Diergaardt emphasized, "There is a lot at stake; two crucial games need to be won. Success in these matches will propel us even further. Qualifying for the FA Cup is within reach, promising celebrations and pride."
Notably, an auction was held during the send-off event to generate funds for the team. Jerseys from the 2019 Rugby World Cup were auctioned, with bids starting at a minimum of 1500 Namibian Dollars per jersey. The highlight of the auction was a 2019 signed Namibian Jersey, which fetched a staggering bid of N$ 67,000.
As the Namibian rugby team embarks on this thrilling journey, they carry with them the aspirations of a nation. Beyond the competition, the Rugby World Cup serves as a platform for sportsmanship, teamwork, and national unity, echoing across borders and cultures.