Home switch saves Flamingoes costs
Lesedi Mkhutshwa | Saturday April 2, 2022 08:39
Speaking after the official opening of the newly constructed changing rooms at the stadium, Thebe said the team managed to save on transport costs, accommodation and stadium fees, which they would have otherwise paid if they were on the road. The team used to travel to play its home games at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, as the Sowa Town Council Stadium was still under construction.
Thebe also said they pay P3,500 to play at the council venue, compared to the P15,000 for use of the Obed Itani Chilume stadium.
He stated that the return to the Sowa base has seen the team attract reasonable attendances, drawing fans from areas such as Gweta, Nata, Tutume and surrounding areas unlike in the past where the attendance was very poor.
”During the time when our games were played in Francistown a lot of our supporters could not travel to Francistown due to financial constraints. But now we are happy with the attendance,” he said
Thebe said the club is making enough from gate takings to cover its operational costs.
He said some fans were still staying away due to uncertainty brought about by COVID-19 but hoped for a change in fortunes as the disease burden subsides.
The Sowa Town Council Stadium changing rooms were constructed at a cost of P1.2 million with works starting last year in November and completed last month.
Speaking during the official opening ceremony, assistant Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sport and Culture Development Buti Billy said it was key to have facilities such as the Sowa Town Council Stadium as the country bids for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
Buti was optimistic about the success of the bid and said they will utilise facilities such as the Sowa Town Council Stadium if Botswana wins the right to organise the 2027 tournament. He said the stadium could be used as a practice venue for teams that will be playing at the Obed Chilume Sports Complex.