Interschool gala to attract 419 swimmers

The 2026 Pupkewitz Foundation Interschool development Gala will bring together 419 learners registered for swimming from 26 schools, as Namibia continues efforts to strengthen aquatic sports at school level.

The gala, scheduled for Friday and Saturday in Windhoek and Oranjemund, will also introduce a Schools Water Polo Tournament in Windhoek, marking a new phase in the development of the sport among young Namibians.

Bernadette Freyer-Swartz, the Namibia Aquatic Sports Federation (NASFED) public relations officer, said the Pupkewitz Foundation’s sponsorship has helped create opportunities for learners to participate in aquatic sports, compete and develop their skills.

She added that the partnership has also increased the visibility of aquatic sports and encouraged greater participation among schools.

Water polo will be introduced following an exhibition match held during the 2025 Pupkewitz Foundation Schools Gala, which prompted the decision to incorporate a dedicated tournament into this year’s event.

“Water polo is an exciting team sport that promotes teamwork, fitness and tactical skills,” Freyer-Swartz said.

She said Namibia’s climate provides an opportunity to introduce more learners to aquatic sports, with NASFED aiming to develop competitive boys’ and girls’ teams capable of participating in regional and international tournaments.

However, expanding aquatic sports beyond established swimming centres remains a challenge. NASFED has identified access to suitable facilities, the cost of equipment and a shortage of qualified coaches and technical officials as some of the obstacles facing schools.

Water polo presents additional requirements because of its specialised equipment and the need for trained personnel to support the sport’s development.

Freyer-Swartz said NASFED intends to broaden access through regional partnerships, school engagement, coaching and technical-official development, as well as targeted development initiatives.

“Collaboration with schools, local stakeholders and sponsors will be important in helping us reach learners beyond the main swimming centres,” she said.

The federation believes continued investment, coach development and partnerships with schools and sponsors will be essential to sustaining growth in swimming and water polo.

The gala is expected to provide young athletes with an opportunity to showcase their abilities while encouraging wider participation in aquatic sports and strengthening school-level sporting development in Namibia.

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