Julinho Athletic FC has concluded its Premier League open trials in Rundu, seeking new talent ahead of the new season.
The open trials started two weeks ago, giving aspiring footballers from Namibia and beyond an opportunity to showcase their abilities and compete for a place in the Premier League side.
Around 20 players took part in the Julinho Athletic FC Premier League open trials, with the club’s technical committee selecting four players following the assessment.
Julinho Athletic FC head coach Luis Nelson reflected on the quality of players who took part in the selection process, saying that while it is difficult for some players to hear that they have not been selected, the trials allowed the technical team to identify players with potential.
“Today was a good day. Unfortunately, it is always sad to tell players that they didn’t make it and have to go home. But the trials have been good. We’ve seen some good talent and some players we are ready to sign. We’ve also seen players who are nearly there, but they come from lower leagues, such as the third and second divisions, so they need a little more experience. We encourage them to play in the first division for one or two years before coming back to try for the Premier League.”
With the two-week recruitment process now closed, Nelson said the club will move into the next phase of preparations, focusing on a smaller group of players who have been invited by the technical team.
“It was open trials, so anybody could come and try, but that is now over. Next week, we will only have players whom we personally invite to come and try out. The open trials are closed. Today was the final day.”
For some players, the trials were not only about securing a place in the team but also about testing themselves against the demands of Premier League football.
Among them was Katata Ismael, a trialist from Kangweru Black Tops, who said the opportunity allowed him to assess his ability and pursue his ambition of playing at the highest level of football.
“I wanted to come and see how strong I am and whether I can play in the Premier League because my mission is to play at that level.”
As the open trials came to an end, Ismael said he remains hopeful of getting another opportunity with Julinho Athletic FC.
However, if he is not among the players invited to continue to the next phase of trials, Ismael said he will not give up on his Premier League ambition.
“That is also acceptable. I can go back and continue working hard and try again next year. I will come back and try again.”
The club also used the final stage of its preparations to play a friendly match against UNAM, giving the players an opportunity to test themselves.
With the open trials now closed, Julinho Athletic FC’s next phase of recruitment will begin next Monday, with invited players joining the squad.