For many soccer lovers, things can only get better. More good news is expected when reports that a major sponsorship deal is in the offing for the First Division becomes a reality. It looks like football is beginning to take its rightful place in Botswana. But first things first. The Zebras have to say thank you to the nation in a big way.
All that we need tomorrow is a win against Guinea. We do not need a draw. I am sure the players will agree with me that through thick and thin, the nation has rallied behind them. Even when the players decided to hold BFA to ransom in their demands for better allowances, the nation closed its eyes to objectivity and backed the players.
Looking back, some of the performances of the Zebras have surpassed expectations although in some instances, the end result has not been what many want. But there is no doubt that the team has been on the rise. Equally, I think I can only say the Zebras have finally graduated if they can beat Guinea. There is need to shed off the regional mentality and standard and just account for the scalp of the West African country. The mark of a good team is shown when it is faced with great challenges. Indeed it has been a journey with so many learning curves for the Zebras and the fact that some players may not make it to either 2008 or 2010 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers means that Saturday is their last day to say good-bye in a big way. Yes, the omen seems to suggest that the P4.5million given to the Premier League by Mascom has boosted the morale of clubs and spectators alike. I am sure even the players are looking forward to the commencement of the 2005/2006 season with great vigour and hope.
But this can only be a memorable week for football and sports in general if the Zebras give us an early Christmas present we so dearly cherish. For once, I would like to see coach Jelusic Vesselin and his players shedding their defensive approach and adopting a more attacking format. Besides, the players can help their cause for a better package by ending this campaign on a winning note.
With regard to the Mascom sponsorship, I think the BFA executive should be congratulated upon striking a good deal. However, BFA should be warned that in business and in life, it is important to maintain certain principles. There is talk that the way the association parted ways with the previous sponsor, Kgalagadi Breweries Limited was not cordial. It was not a good treatment to a long time partner let alone a major sponsor. There is however more work to be done if big corporations are to be attracted to sponsor football. I do not want to belabour the shenanigans that took place during the previous season. But suffice to say that the BFA secretariat and the Premier League seemed to be working at cross-purposes. Some of the postponements caused by the Zebras’ hastily organised last minute friendly games seemed to suggest that the secretariat cared little about the Premier League. There is need for better organisation and focus. Equally, the Premier League administrative secretary, Comfort Ramatebele seemed to answer for everything even those that needed a response from the BFA chief executive or the Premier League chairman.
With the increased sponsorship, BFA should seriously consider rewarding players, officials and clubs that excel. There is need to strengthen good performance so as to encourage those involved in the sport. So many people have made tremendous contribution, some beyond their call of duty and ought to be appreciated.
