Erongo Rugby Talents Head to National Trials in Windhoek

Erongo Rugby Talents Head to National Trials in Windhoek. Excitement is building as the Erongo Region’s Under-16 and Under-19 rugby teams travel to Windhoek to compete in the prestigious National School Sport Union (NSSU) rugby trials, taking place from 17 to 18 April 2026 at the iconic Hage Geingob Stadium.

The trials will bring together top school rugby talent from across Namibia, with athletes vying for a place in the national setup. For the Erongo players, this marks a significant milestone in their rugby journey, offering a platform to showcase skill, determination, and passion for the sport. More than a selection process, the trials are a test of discipline, resilience, and raw talent under pressure.

Spectators can expect high-intensity matches and fierce competition as Namibia’s next generation of rugby stars put everything on the line. For many, this weekend could mark the beginning of a path toward national recognition and future success.

The Under-16 squad, coached by Morne Rust with Hendry Smith as assistant coach, features a balanced mix of skill and potential. Selected players include: Luciano Katzao, Raymundo Bowe, Kyle Kaulume, Leron Stumpfe, Zaylin Van Der Colff (Walvis Bay Gymnasium); Zane Joseph (De Duine S.S); Eljay Ipinge (Duinesig); Malan Els, Ntintin Orange, Coetzee Sales, Janco Duvenhage, Michael Le Grange (Walvis Bay Private School); and Philip Swartz, Luhan Nasilowski, Rijk Duvenhage, JJ Smith, Jaun Labuschagne, Keagan Berendse, Michael Muller, Donald Vries, CJ Pretorius, Alexander Williams (Pro-Ed Academy).

The Under-19 team, led by Frans Joubert with Karl Cookson as assistant coach and Brand Visagie as team manager, also boasts impressive depth. Players include Mauricio Nash (Walvis Bay Gymnasium); Jaden Van Wyk, Alonzo Stramis, Jade Langenhoven, Sergio Pamplin, Juandre Block, John Thomas Vries (De Duine S.S); Shaun Carsten, MJ De Villiers, Jayden Pretorius, Jaden Blaauw, Mark Harper, Joshua Visagie, Dirk van Staden, Adrian Mostert, Rhys Duvenhage, Leonardo Hailombe (Walvis Bay Private School); and Viljoen Theart, Adriaan Moolman, Zayden Schreuder, Alvandro Diergaardt, Mias Niewoudt, Henry Muller, Miles Narib (Pro-Ed Academy).

This weekend’s trials promise inspiration, action, and unforgettable performances as Erongo’s rising stars step onto the national stage.