Teams laud increased grants

WINDHOEK, 07 NOV  – The Mobile Telecommunications Limited (MTC) Namibia Premier League (NPL) football clubs have welcomed the increased monthly grants from the league.
The grants have been increased from N$65 000 to N$114 280 monthly by the league.
Speaking to Nampa at the launch of the 2018/19 MTC NPL League in Windhoek on Wednesday, the Chief Executive Officer of Orlando Pirates, Nicklaas Kisilipile said this is a welcome development.
“All the clubs will benefit from this increase as it will relieve the pressure when it comes to operational expenses like travelling and salaries,” he said.
He said the grants will be paid on a monthly basis, as opposed to quarterly payments in the previous seasons.
“Paying them monthly will guarantee that operational expenses like salaries, accommodation and transport are taken care of as they arise. Everyone can now have a good night’s sleep because of this,” Kisilipile said.
Young African owner and coach Maleagi ‘Mali’ Ngarizemo said it is a big boost for the clubs.
He was however less enthusiastic about the fact that teams will now play single headers instead of double headers, saying teams will have double the expenses as well.
“It will not make a huge difference, but it is a good addition. The team’s operational budgets will be easier to manage and the teams will have no excuses of not paying the players on time,” he added.
NPL and African Stars Chairperson, Patrick Kauta said they are thankful to the sponsors who are the ones who make it possible for the clubs to make sure that 480 youths are gainfully employed annually.
Tura Magic Chairperson, Peter Nakurua shared his colleague’s sentiments, saying it is now up to the clubs to look for more sponsorships to supplement the grants.
“Depending on the grant alone will not be conducive for the clubs as they may find themselves in debt,” he said.
(NAMPA)