Namibia Takes Steps Towards International Gymnastics Certification
In an exciting development for Namibian gymnastics, four esteemed judges from the Namibian Gymnastics Federation (NGF) have embarked on a journey to Johannesburg, South Africa. Their destination? The highly anticipated International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) Brevet judges’ exam, taking place from March 18 to March 21, 2025. This critical qualification will empower them to officiate at FIG-sanctioned competitions, elevating their roles within the sport’s elite circles.
This remarkable initiative is fully backed by the Namibia National Olympic Committee (NNOC), underscoring the nation’s commitment to promoting gymnastics and enhancing its representation on the international stage. The course will be expertly conducted by Isabell Sawade, a distinguished member of the FIG technical committee hailing from Germany. A diverse group of 30 participants from Namibia, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Egypt, and Bulgaria will gather for this significant event, making it a melting pot of gymnastics talent and experience.
Among the Namibian representatives are accomplished judges Britt Adonis-Byl, Roumi Kostin, Janice van Rooyen, and Wietsa Snyman. Adonis-Byl, who has a wealth of experience in judging, is undertaking this exam for the fourth Olympic cycle with aspirations to attain the esteemed Level 3 FIG certification. She notes, “Kostin and I will be assessed on both individual (RGI) and group (RGG) gymnastics exams. Van Rooyen will be entering this realm for the first time, as she and Snyman vie for the entry-level FIG Level 4 certification.”
This ongoing commitment to excellence isn’t new for Namibian judges. Earlier in February, Nadine Jaeger and Claudia Jaeger from the artistic gymnastics section successfully obtained their FIG Level 4 judging certifications. Moreover, just days before this recent exam, three judges from the trampoline section — Nadine Jaeger, Thalia Loveira, and Carane van Zyl — set off to participate in a FIG Brevet course as well. The NGF’s goal is clear: to broaden Namibia’s roster of Brevet judges across all gymnastics disciplines, thus enhancing the nation’s representation in international gymnastics events.
This development signals not just a commitment to gymnastics in Namibia but a broader investment in sports development in Africa. As these judges work towards gaining their international certifications, they are setting a powerful example of dedication and ambition that can inspire future generations of athletes and officials.
Stay tuned for more updates as Namibia continues to make strides in the gymnastics community!
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