The Suko White All Stars Tournament, now in its fifth year, is on track for another celebration of Namibian football, music and culture in the United Kingdom. Founded in 2022, it has grown, drawing more teams, supporters, and partners, and enhancing its role as a key event for the Namibian diaspora.
This year’s tournament will be held tomorrow at Cheltenham Bournside School. Organisers say preparations have gone smoothly and most logistics are in place.
According to Menongongo Gloria Kejarukua, aka Suko-White, key areas like fixtures, refereeing, sound, catering, security, and medical support have been coordinated ahead of the event.
“With the support of our sponsors, our federation team and the wider organising committee, we have refined our processes year after year, so much of the logistical groundwork is already tried and tested,” she said.
The fifth edition has 17 teams in a knockout format, with teams eliminated after a defeat.
The first match begins at 08h30, with teams arriving from 08h00 for registration and warm-ups. Organisers and crew will be on site from 07h00 to prepare. The event will have music, kapana, and food vendors offering Namibian, African, and international cuisine, creating a festival atmosphere.
A dedicated area will host the federation, sponsors, and guests for networking. Entertainment features artists from various backgrounds to appeal to the Namibian community and highlight Namibian culture in the UK.
“Yes, I will be performing at this year’s tournament, and I am very excited to share the stage with the rest of the line-up.” She added that new music, inspired by his tournament experiences and the Namibian diaspora, is in the works.
New awards introduced
This year’s edition introduces initiatives to recognise excellence on and off the field. A new referee trophy highlights officials’ role in fairness and professionalism. Player awards like Best Player, Golden Boot, Best Goalkeeper, Best Coach, and Man of the Match will be more prominent, with the Best Player also getting extra cash. Organisers said the changes aim to reward commitment, encourage high performance, and value participants’ contributions.
A growing tournament
Reflecting on the tournament’s growth since 2022, the team acknowledged non-linear progress but highlighted lessons and improvements from each edition.
From its beginnings to last year’s event, the tournament has improved in attendance, partnerships, participation, and overall quality.
“There have been a few logistical challenges along the way, but the most important thing has always been to push through, learn from each edition and make it happen for the community,” she said.
The growth has made the tournament a notable Namibian diaspora event in the UK, uniting footballers, families, supporters, artists, and community stakeholders.
Saturday features a full day of football and entertainment, ending with the final stages on Sunday. Quarter-finals begin at 09h00, semi-finals at 11h00, and the final at 14h30. The awards and closing ceremony will honour individuals and teams, including the main trophy, Best Player, Golden Boot, Best Goalkeeper, Best Referee, Best Coach, and Man of the Match. For the organisers, the tournament is more than just a competition; it’s a chance for Namibians in the UK and beyond to reconnect, celebrate their identity, and strengthen community bonds.
“To the Namibian community in the UK and abroad, your support is the heart of this tournament; your presence, songs, flags and energy turn a series of matches into a true celebration of who we are,” she noted.
As the fifth edition approaches, organisers emphasise that supporters should be ready for football, music, food, friendship and Namibian culture celebration.
-slunyangwe@nepc.com.na
The post Suko All White Tournament set for UK stage appeared first on New Era.
