The seventh edition of the Deep Yellow Sports Festival highlighted the role of sport in youth development by bringing together young athletes in Swakopmund. Organised by Teenagers Football Club and sponsored by Deep Yellow Namibia, the festival attracted teams from across the coastal towns, providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their talent. Founded in 2014, Teenagers Football Club has used sport as a tool to keep young people away from substance abuse while developing their sporting abilities.
Founder and Organiser Elvin Majiedt praised parents, coaches, and volunteers for their continued commitment to youth development. Majiedt thanked the parents for entrusting the young boys and girls to the club, and thanked the coaches for spending time shaping and developing them into sportsmen and sportswomen who can excel in the future. He emphasized that the dedication of parents and coaches keeps the children off the streets and away from wrongdoings, allowing them to spend their time in a safeguarded and planned program activity.
Parents attending the tournament echoed similar sentiments, describing sport as an important tool for promoting discipline, teamwork, and personal growth.
Rongi Tom shared that her son has been with the club for the past six to seven years, moving from the under-7 division to playing under-12 at this tournament. She noted that the initiative keeps children off the streets and creates discipline in team behavior. Tom also highlighted the strong connection between parents and the coach, explaining that if the children struggle with academics, the parents can inform the coach, who always reinforces their studies.
Another parent, Caroline Axakhoes, commended the sponsors and organisers for creating opportunities for young athletes. She thanked NBC for capturing the moment and extended appreciation to Deep Yellow Namibia for sponsoring the event. As a mother, she encouraged other parents to support their children in participating in sports. She also welcomed Teenagers Football Club's selection to participate in a tournament in Cape Town later this year.
According to the organisers, the successful hosting of the tournament has strengthened partnerships with stakeholders, with plans already underway to expand the event next year by introducing girls' football. The organisers stated that the Deep Yellow Sports Festival continues to serve as a platform for youth development and talent identification, adding that sport remains a tool for social and community development.