New book chronicles Cuca Tops' football legacy

The University of Namibia (Unam) Press has launched Mind is Might: The History of Cuca Tops Football Club, a book documenting the history of one of Namibia's most celebrated football clubs and the legacy of the Kavango-based side's impact on communities across the country.

The book was launched on Thursday at the Namibian Football Association (NFA) Football House in Katutura, Windhoek.

Author Matthias M. Ngwangwama said at the launch that the publication goes beyond football, capturing the club's history, influence and place in Namibian society.

"It’s about a team that symbolises resilience, innovation, good leadership and best management practices plus excellence; that’s actually the story behind the book."

Ngwangwama said he was inspired to write the true-life account by his passion for African football and his desire to share Cuca Tops' remarkable story with a wider audience.

United on the field

During the keynote address, former football player and current NFA secretary general Mabos Vries reflected on the club's history and the environment in which it was established.

"The club was founded during a period when Namibia was still under apartheid. Opportunities were limited, resources were scarce, yet people came together around common purposes," he said.

"Young men and women found hope on football fields, communities found pride in local achievements."

Vries added that football created lasting relationships during a difficult period in the country's history.

"Indeed, the book reminds us that Cuca Tops succeeded in uniting diverse communities, not only within Kavango but across Namibia."

One of the club's longest-serving chairmen, Robert Mupiri, also spoke at the launch, explaining the origin of the club's name. He said it was derived from an alcoholic beverage called Cuca.

Mupiri described Cuca Tops as a true community club that enjoyed unwavering support from local residents.

"The club was founded in 1969. I remember those days – I was still a student at Rundu Secondary School. I remember CucaTops, the times when they were playing, even students from Rundu Secondary School would not eat if Cuca Tops lost that game."

Mupiri said the club became a symbol of community pride, with residents regularly contributing money to help the team travel to Windhoek for matches. He said Cuca Tops belonged to the people, making its story one worth preserving for future generations.