• By Staff Reporter

A total of 79 young table tennis players converged on the Wanderers Sports Hall in Pioneers Park in Windhoek over the weekend to compete in the third tournament of the Arysteq / Simonis Storm Schools Tournament Series 2025. The tournament comprised of 27 junior girls and 52 junior boys, representing a 35 percent participation rate for junior girls, aligning with international guidelines to increase female participation in the sport. 

The St Joseph’s Primary School from Rehoboth participated for the first time this year, contributing 22 entries and introducing new developing players to the game. Kamrouz Ghayouri of St Paul’s College achieved a remarkable feat by winning gold medals in all three age categories, under-19, under-17, under-15) at the age of 14.

Meanwhile, Deutsche Höhere Privatschule’s (DHPS) Caden Bosman took silver medal in the under-19 category, and Agape Chicalu of St Paul’s College took silver medal in the under-17 with Fillemon Ikanda of Olof Palme Primary School taking a silver medal in the under-15. The under 13 category boys’ title went to Nathanael Dayelai of Olof Palme Primary School, who defeated Daniel Beukes of Orban Primary School in the final.

Terence Kadandara of St Paul’s College won the under-11 category against Tangi Haufiku of Olof Palme Primary School. In the girls sections, Lian Gebauer of DHPS won both the under-19 and under-17 categories after defeating Justina Namupolo of Hage Geingob High School and Karolina Shigwedha from Ella du Plessis High School in the under-17 category.

The under-15 category was won by Karolina Shigwedha, who defeated Cadence Farmer from St Paul’s College. The under-13 and under-11 categories were won by Ester Nelenge from Olof Palme Primary School, who defeated Sylvi Ikanda from Hillside Primary School in both finals.

Theo Beukes, who is the coordinator of the tournament, expressed joy at seeing players showcasing their talent and also thanked their parents for coming out in support of their kids.

“The tournament was a resounding success, showcasing high levels of play, extensive media coverage, and strong attendance by parents and supporters. We extend our gratitude to our sponsors for their continued support in growing our beloved sport. The date for the fourth tournament will be announced soon,” said Beukes.