Namibian hockey player Azaylee Philander recently reached 50 indoor international caps for Namibia, a milestone she describes as fulfilling a goal she first imagined as a young player watching a senior teammate achieve the same feat.
When Philander made her international debut in 2018, she watched Magreth Mengo earn her 50th international cap. The moment stayed with her, planting a goal that she has now achieved at just 22 years old.
“It is such an honour to reach 50 caps for my country. When I made my debut back in 2018, Maggy Mengo reached her 50th international cap, I remember thinking that one day I would reach mine too. The journey has been challenging and rewarding,” she said. Philander’s love for hockey began in Grade one at St Paul’s, but indoor hockey became a passion through the influence of Shayne Cormack, who invited her to join the K5 Coaching programme.
Since then, the sport has become a constant in her life.
“Every weekend, hockey, hockey, hockey, repeat,” she said.
Her international journey began at 14, when she debuted for Namibia in a Test series against South Africa in Durban. Although nervous, having friends Jerrica Bartlett, Gillian Hermanus, and Sunelle Pretorius with her made the experience memorable.
Over the years, Philander has collected experiences that have shaped her both as a player and as a person. Among her standout moments was the 2025 Indoor Hockey World Cup, where Namibia finished sixth after extensive preparation. In December 2024, Philander sustained an injury, leaving her facing one of the biggest setbacks of her career just weeks before the World Cup, which took place in early February. Missing a significant portion of the team’s physical preparation was difficult, but she remained committed to rehabilitation, physiotherapy and maintaining her faith as she worked towards recovery.
She eventually reunited with her teammates in Croatia, a moment that made her work away from the spotlight worthwhile. The experience also brought a deeper realisation about life beyond sport.
“In this time, I discovered that my identity is bigger than my sport and the recovery process can shape your resilience,” she said.
Philander credits Kiana Cormack as her ultimate inspiration, describing their relationship as one that extends beyond hockey. From watching Cormack play to sharing the court with her, Philander considers it a privilege to have someone who challenges and encourages her.
Beyond her own achievements, Philander hopes Namibian indoor hockey will continue to grow. Having reached the 50-cap milestone, she has already set her sights on the next target.
“The next milestone and goal would be 100 caps. Our team is evolving, and I would love to be part of the journey,” she said.
Away from the court, Philander’s interests reflect another side of her personality. Guided by her Christian faith, she enjoys working with children, watching them grow and helping them reach their full potential.
Looking back, the 22-year-old says she would encourage her younger self to keep dreaming, remain passionate and learn from every international appearance, regardless of the outcome.
-hnalupe@nepc.com.na
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