NVF appoints Matheus as head coach of national teams

Volleyball
Mariud Ngula
  • 1 Day Ago
Namibia Volleyball Federation (NVF) has appointed Joel Matheus as head coach of the senior men’s and women’s national volleyball teams for a period of six months, effective 5 September.

Matheus, who also served as NVF president from 2014 to 2016, brings a wealth of experience as a certified instructor with the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB).

He welcomed the appointment, saying it is an honour to be “entrusted with such a huge national responsibility.”

“Six months is a very short time and quite limiting on what one can achieve in such a short period,” he said.

Nonetheless, he assured that his first target is to establish a structured and functional setup.

This, he said, will ensure the teams can follow consistent training schedules and secure friendly matches both at home and abroad.

NVF chief executive officer Festus Hamukwaya lauded the appointment, noting the six-month contract serves as an assessment and can be extended with a renewed contract.

The appointment marks a crucial step in NVF’s journey to develop and strengthen volleyball in the country, with funding from the FIVB under the “Coaching Support Project.”

NVF president Tobias Mwatelulo noted that detailed programmes and schedules on the appointment will be shared in due course.



Scouting processes

He also confirmed the new national coach will be present at the upcoming MTC Volleyball National League seventh round in Mariental this weekend and the prestigious Bank Windhoek NVF Cup next month in Windhoek.

“Coach Matheus will be scouting potential athletes for the senior national teams at these competitions. Outstanding players from the last two NVF Cups will also be considered,” said Mwatelulo.

He further added that talent identification will continue throughout the NVF’s eight regional leagues and encouraged athletes to prepare diligently and showcase their talent.

“Our ultimate goal is to build strong, competitive national teams that will represent the country with pride and bring sporting glory,” he said.

Mwatelulo revealed that the federation is working towards establishing a junior national team to serve as a feeder into the senior national teams, ensuring continuity and long-term success.

“This project will not only focus on athletes but will also involve local coaches, administrators and supporting structures to ensure a holistic and sustainable impact in volleyball development in the country,” he said.



‘Volleyball is a lifestyle’

He further reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to giving equal opportunities to players and ensuring broad-based representation.

Acknowledging the costs involved in maintaining national teams, Mwatelulo noted that the federation will work closely with stakeholders, including the sports ministry, Namibia National Olympic Committee, Namibia Sports Commission, international bodies and corporate partners to mobilise the necessary resources.

“We equally call upon the volleyball community to support this project in every way possible. Let us build national pride, inspire the youth and showcase Namibia’s potential on the international stage. Volleyball is a lifestyle!”

– mariud@nsh.com.na