Botswana Table Tennis Association (BTTA) says the build up to next month’s Region 5 games in Lesotho is going according to plan despite a few hiccups.
In a brief interview with Voice Sport, BTTA National Para Team Coach, Godirileone Bagwasi said, “I think our preparations have been on point thus far.
“Moreover, I am confident that we are going there to compete not to add numbers.”
However, Bagwasi conceded that a number of obstacles have risen, including lack of funds, transport and accommodation for players.
“This has made it difficult for them to train to their fullest potential,” he confirmed.
Botswana will be sending an 11-memebr squad to Lesotho, consisting of four men, four ladies and three para players.
At the weekend, the national team unveiled their new kit as part of their four-year sponsorship with Stag International worth P476, 000.
Speaking to Voice Sport on the sidelines, the men’s top ranked player, Tshenolo Mooketsi, 21, admitted they would be facing the unknown in the mountains.
“The coaches are pushing us to new limits because we will be up against opponents that we have never played against before. We do not know their strengths and weaknesses thus we need to be ready come the big day,” said Mooketsi, who has set himself and his teammates high goals for the regional competition.
“I want to be ranked 1st in the Southern Africa region and I would like to see my country collecting Gold medals. I believe the players that have been called up are impressive and have been consistent in the domestic tournaments hence we will certainly cause havoc in Lesotho,” predicted the youngster, his eyes alight with excitement.
The games run from 9 – 12 December, and as well as Team BW and the hosts, will feature: Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
