Erongo darts trio aims for glory, seeks support
Erongo's top darts players are preparing to represent Namibia at the upcoming African Union Sports Council (AUSC) Region 5 Games in Botswana, but funding challenges continue to place pressure on athletes selected to compete on the international stage.
The three athletes are Diane Ludwig, who will compete in the senior women's division, and Ado Jenneker and Stanice Daniels, who will represent Namibia in the senior men's category.
Namibia Darts Federation general manager Petrus Petrus has appealed to businesses, community members and corporate sponsors to assist players as they prepare for the regional championships.
According to Petrus, athletes selected for the national team are required to contribute towards their own participation costs, as available funding does not fully cover travel and related expenses.
"Being selected to represent your country should be a proud moment, but unfortunately many players are forced to carry a significant portion of the costs themselves," he said.
The appeal comes as three Erongo players prepare to don national colours in Botswana later this year following a demanding national selection process.
Petrus said the financial challenges begin long before players are selected for the national team.
Competitors are required to participate in a series of national trials, often at their own expense. Travel, accommodation and other associated costs can become a barrier for talented players, particularly those living outside central regions.
"The biggest challenge for many players is funding. Some athletes were unable to participate in all the required trials because of the costs involved, which ultimately affected their rankings and chances of selection," he said.
Despite the financial challenges, Pietrus expressed confidence in the national team's ability to perform well at the regional championships. He said the selected players are working hard in preparation for the competition and are determined to make Namibia proud.
"Most importantly, we want to come back with an achievement that will make the country proud. All the players selected are currently preparing to ensure that when they represent Namibia, they do so to the best of their abilities. When you wear national colours, you want to do your best and make the country proud. " he said.
To help ease the financial burden, the Erongo Darts Union has launched fundraising initiatives aimed at supporting athletes travelling to Botswana.
Monthly darts tournaments are being organised, with proceeds directed towards subsidising participation costs.
Petrus said community support will play a vital role in ensuring players can focus on their performance rather than financial concerns.
"We are calling on businesses, sponsors and the wider community to get involved. These athletes are representing not only themselves, but Namibia as a whole. Any support will help them compete with confidence and bring positive results back home," he said.
Information about upcoming fundraising events and opportunities to support the players is available through the Erongo Darts Union's social media platforms.
