Sports Expo targets athlete longevity

The 2024 Namibia Sports Expo was officially launched in Swakopmund, with its third edition promising to be more than just an event. MTC The Dome CEO Fanus Engelbrecht expressed excitement about this year's expo, emphasising its role in a crucial shift towards creating a comprehensive sports ecosystem for Namibia.Engelbrecht highlighted that the expo is not a stand-alone event, but a deliberate effort to foster a powerful sports environment in Namibia. “We are very excited about the third edition of the Namibia Sports Expo," he said. "This is not just an event; it's part of a broader initiative to build a sports ecosystem that supports and nurtures Namibian talent over the coming Olympic cycle."The expo, scheduled for October, aims to kickstart the new Olympic cycle and enhance the preparation prospects for Namibian athletes to qualify for 2028 Los Angeles. Engelbrecht expressed his belief in the quality of the country's sporting talent, noting that despite the enthusiasm and passion, efforts often remain fragmented. The expo's theme this year, “Athlete Longevity: Creating a Sports Ecosystem to Thrive”, reflects the commitment to unifying and strengthening sports efforts across the nation.A variety of activities will feature, including an indoor sports hall expo, outdoor events, and a conference focused on athlete longevity and sports ecosystem development. Attendees can look forward to local and international exhibitors showcasing the latest in sports education, equipment, and services. The expo will also include a food court and a sports carnival featuring an international hockey test series, chess and netball tournaments, paddle and e-sport competitions, among other activities.The conference will explore the components necessary to develop champions, featuring inspirational speakers, sports legends, and innovative thinkers. This segment of the expo aims to challenge existing paradigms and envision the future of sports in Namibia.StakeholdersSimataa Mwiya, chief administrator of the Namibia Sports Commission, reflected on the event's history, noting that this year's edition marks the significance of the expo, born out of a 2019 Cabinet decision and initial efforts to establish a significant sports event in Namibia. Despite challenges, including the impact of Covid-19, Mwiya praised the ongoing public-private partnership with MTC The Dome and other stakeholders.“The Namibia Sports Expo is more than an event. It represents our collective commitment to advancing sports in Namibia and creating opportunities for our athletes and communities,” Mwiya stated.With the continued support of corporate partners and stakeholders, the Namibia Sports Expo promises to be a landmark occasion, setting the stage for the future of sports in the country.– precious@erongo.com.na

Sports Expo targets athlete longevity

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-19

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Sports Expo targets athlete longevity

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Namibian Sun 2025-06-19

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