FNB Invests over N$26m in Namibian sport
The 2025 FNB Classic Clashes season kicked off on 16 July in Rehoboth, where MK Gertze High School and Dr Lemmer High School went head-to-head in a spirited rugby match at the MK Gertze rugby field. Supporters filled the stands for the season opener, where fierce competition set the tone for another exciting chapter in the much-anticipated school sports series.The games continued in the Erongo Region, with Kolen Foundation taking on West Side High on 22 July at the Arandis Sports Stadium. Action then moved to the coast on 23 July, where Coastal High School faced Swakopmund Secondary School at the Vineta Sports Stadium.
FNB Namibia called on parents, peers, and communities to rally behind the youth, noting that each clash represents not only the pursuit of victory but also the building of school pride and sporting legacies.
Now in its 17th year, the Classic Clashes have grown into a tradition that unites communities across Namibia while showcasing the resilience and talent of young athletes. More than sporting fixtures, the series has become a platform that fosters character, strengthens school identity, and ignites a collective passion for sport.
FNB Namibia continues to play a central role in driving this vision.
At the Rehoboth opener, Jonathan Coakley, Branch Manager of FNB Rehoboth, described the clashes as “a platform where school pride, athletic talent, and the spirit of unity come alive.” He added that FNB has invested over N$26 million in sporting initiatives over the past three years, underscoring the bank’s commitment to helping take Namibian athletes “from grassroots to greatness.”
Beyond the Classic Clashes, FNB’s sporting investments extend to various codes including football, netball, athletics, and basketball, ensuring opportunities are spread across disciplines and regions. This broad approach reflects the bank’s recognition that talent exists everywhere and must be nurtured with equal dedication.
The Classic Clashes also highlight the importance of community involvement. Teachers, alumni, and families often travel long distances to support their schools, transforming each game into a cultural event that reinforces identity and belonging. In many towns, the clashes are not only about sport but also about celebration, unity, and the economic activity that comes with hosting large crowds.
As the season progresses, rivalries are expected to intensify, with schools eager to prove themselves on the national stage. For young athletes, the clashes are more than just games; they are stepping stones to future opportunities in sport and a chance to showcase their potential to scouts, coaches, and the wider public.
With every whistle blown and every cheer from the stands, the Classic Clashes continue to remind Namibians of the power of sport to inspire, uplift, and unite communities. The investment of FNB, combined with the passion of learners and the support of communities, ensures that the legacy of the clashes will remain strong for years to come.