- 18-year olds and above will compete in men’s singles, women’s singles and doubles categories
- US-based players Tshepo Mosarwa and Thato Holmes expected to add more flavour to the tourney
- But BTA is a bit troubled by slow response of entries from neighbouring countries
GAZETTE REPORTER
Botswana will host the Southern Africa Region Zone V Competition from 9 to 13 December 2023 in Gaborone for participants aged 18 years and above in men’s singles, women’s singles and doubles categories.
“This tournament is a golden opportunity for local players to showcase their talent on a regional stage,” said the president of Botswana Table Tennis (BTA), Oaitse Thipe, in a telephone interview.
“The inclusion of prize money adds an extra incentive, potentially giving a significant boost to our participating athletes.
College tennis in America
“The tournament also offers a platform for our players, who are engaged in college tennis in America and are currently back home holiday, to stay active and competitive.”
The budget for the tournament is estimated at P100,000.
Explaining the format of the tournament, Thipe stated: “This is more of an individual tournament rather than a team competition.
“Our players have been active throughout the year, especially Tshepo Mosarwa and Thato Holmes, who currently play for North Carolina Wesleyan University. They may participate in the tournament and add more flavour to it.”
Slow response
He expressed satisfaction with ongoing preparations, and praised the diligent efforts of BTA office staff for the growth and success of tennis in Botswana.
But despite the positive momentum, he acknowledged challenges, among them a slow response of entries from neighbouring countries.
In related news, BTA elected a new executive committee over the weekend.
New leadership team
The new leadership team is made up of Oaitse Thipe as president, Atang Mokgware as vice president – administration, Nonofo Othusitse as vice president – technical, Bonno Masisi-Makula as director of coaching and sports development, Batisane Khiwa as director of tournaments and administration, Nchidzi Kriss Batisani as director of finance, Tshepang Tlhankane as director of public relations and marketing, and Peter Nthele as director of facilities.