Driven by the game, defined by the future
From the age of six, South African-born Ruben Trumpelmann knew cricket was more than just a game. Growing up playing at school and provincial levels, he faced tough choices early on, juggling rugby, hockey and cricket before fully committing to the sport by age 13.The path to professional cricket wasn’t easy. Leaving rugby behind, he pushed forward, eventually joining South Africa’s franchise system. But the biggest leap came when he moved to Namibia to pursue his career full-time. “Moving to a new country, away from family and friends, was a big sacrifice,” he recalls. “I had to restart and rebuild my life.”
His move coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, making it even harder. Separated from his parents and isolated, Trumpelmann had to navigate uncertainty and keep faith in his dream. At one point, delays in securing his passport nearly ended his cricket career. “I told my dad if the passport didn’t come through, I was done,” he says.
Thankfully, he got citizenship, allowing him to represent Namibia on the international stage.
Enjoy the moment
As a senior player for the Eagles, he takes pride in mentoring younger teammates. “We’ve broken doors open for others. It’s a privilege to help the next generation avoid mistakes and make cricket their career.”
The mental challenges of the sport are significant. “Training sessions are long and emotionally draining. Having something outside cricket as a hobby or passion helps me stay balanced. It reminds me that cricket is important but not everything.”
Looking ahead, Trumpelmann is focused on helping Namibia qualify for upcoming tournaments and representing his country with pride. Reflecting on his journey, he offers advice to his younger self: “Relax and enjoy the moment. Don’t get too caught up in the pressure.”