The new members of the Playtime coaching team. Photo Contributed.
The new members of the Playtime coaching team. Photo Contributed.

Playtime welcomes new coaches from ASC Göttingen

Soccer
Otis Daniels
Playtime Namibia announced the arrival of its latest group of enthusiastic and talented volunteer coaches from ASC Göttingen, a renowned sports organisation in Germany.

This year, Playtime is thrilled to welcome four exceptional coaches. Jannis Bauer, a seasoned football goalkeeper with over 13 years of experience, is passionate about teaching young athletes the value of teamwork, hard work, and perseverance. He specializes in goalkeeping techniques and strategies, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the field. Levin Schmitz who is known for his innovative approach to coaching, brings fresh ideas and enthusiasm to inspire young players to achieve their best. Sara Kiefer, a dedicated coach with a strong focus on holistic player development, will focus on building both athletic skills and personal confidence in young athletes. Vicky Missel, who has a talent for fostering collaboration and teamwork, is committed to creating a positive and inclusive environment for all participants. This new cohort marks another milestone in the enduring partnership that has been instrumental in shaping the success of Playtime Namibia’s youth development initiatives.



Game changer

“The partnership with ASC Göttingen has been a game-changer for Playtime Namibia. These young coaches not only enhance our sports programs but also serve as role models, inspiring our youth to strive for excellence on and off the field. Together, we’re building a brighter future for our communities. As these dynamic volunteers join our ranks, we look forward to continuing our journey of empowerment, teamwork, and growth. Through sports, we’re not just developing better athletes; we’re shaping confident, resilient, and empowered individuals who will lead their communities into the future,” said Sandro de Gouveia, Founder and Trustee of Playtime Namibia.



Win win partnership

Since 2016, the collaboration between Playtime Namibia and ASC Göttingen has served as a cornerstone of the organisations mission to empower young Namibians through sports. This partnership, made possible by the German government’s "Weltwärts" program, reflects a shared commitment to fostering youth development across borders. Through this exchange, young coaches from ASC Göttingen join Playtime for periods of up to six months, contributing their expertise and energy to our programs while gaining invaluable cultural and professional experiences. Many of these volunteers return for subsequent tenures, underscoring the strength of the bond between our organizations.

De Gouveia said that Playtime Namibia takes pride in providing each volunteer with free accommodation, transport, and the resources necessary to thrive during their tenure. "This ensures that our coaches can focus entirely on delivering impactful programs and making a meaningful difference in the lives of Namibian youth."



About Playtime Namibia

Playtime Namibia is a youth development organisation that leverages the power of sports to inspire, educate, and empower young Namibians. Through partnerships like the one with ASC Göttingen, Playtime Namibia continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and at the coast.

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Namibian Sun 2025-12-17

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