Rooties Shine Across the Country in Action-Packed Sports Weekend!

This past weekend showcased the heart, hustle, and growth of our Rooties as they competed across Namibia. With rugby, netball, and chess fixtures taking place in Gobabis, Windhoek, and Mariental, our athletes demonstrated commitment, talent, and a never-give-up spirit that continues to define Roots Gymnasium sport.

Arnold Smith on his way to score a try against Gobabis Gymnasium (photo credit Kayli Nel Photography)

At the Gobabis Winter Sports Day, our U/8, U/15, and U/19 rugby teams, alongside our U/7, U/8, U/9, and U/17 netball stars, gave it their all on the courts and fields. Simultaneously, Windhoek Gymnasium hosted our U/10 and U/13 rugby teams, as well as our U/10 and U/11 netball squads. Adding to the action, our U/13 netball team competed in the NSSU Super League at WHS, while chess player Meyer Engelbrecht represented Roots Gymnasium at the Knightly Chess Academy Tournament in Mariental.

Netball Results Recap:

U/7 & U/8: 5 wins, 2 losses – a solid combined performance by our youngest teams!

U/9: 3 wins, 1 loss – impressive form and growth.

Carli Boltman and Lhana Simon in action during their U/9 match against Pionierspark Primary School. (photo credit Kayli Nel Photography)

U/10: 4 wins and 1 draw – a fantastic unbeaten streak!

U/11: 3 wins, 2 losses – a balanced and promising effort.

U/13 (NSSU Super League): 2 wins, 2 losses – Delivered solid performances in a high-level competition.

U/17: 3 wins, 1 loss – commended for their beautiful and disciplined performance.

Niricia Neels focusing on her goal against Epako High School. (photo credit Bianca van Rhyn)

Rugby Results Recap:

U/8: 3 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw – first-ever wins for our youngest rugby team! Huge congratulations to Coach Johan and the Ratels!

Coach Johan and the U/8 Ratels.

U/10: 1 win, 2 losses – determined performances against tough competition.

U/13: 2 wins, 2 losses – a spirited showing in all matches.

U/15 (Sevens Rugby): Dominant victories! 28–0 against Privaatskool Elnatan and 71–0 over Gobabis Gymnasium.

U/19: In an intense NSSR league showdown, our senior boys outplayed Gobabis Gymnasium with a remarkable 61–3 victory. Despite a few injuries on both sides, the team showed exceptional resilience and discipline.

Coach Jandré with the U/19 rugby team after their epic 61-3 victory against Gobabis Gymnasium.

Chess Spotlight: Well done to Meyer Engelbrecht, who competed in the U/13 category at the Knightly Chess Academy Tournament in Mariental. He secured 3 out of 4 wins, just missing the podium, but showing true strategic strength and potential!

Looking Ahead:

Our U/19 rugby team faces an exciting and challenging week ahead with two home matches: Wednesday, 23 July vs. the undefeated Dr Lemmer 1 from Rehoboth, and Saturday, 26 July vs. KPS. Let’s pack the stands and show our support!

The U/15 netball team heads to WHS for the NSSU Super League. Good luck, girls!

And our youngest Rooties, the U/8 & U/9 netball and rugby teams, are gearing up for another exciting event at the Windhoek Gymnasium Sports Day, on Saturday, 26 July.

To all our athletes – thank you for your passion, perseverance, and team spirit. You continue to inspire us all!