Tonota FC make history after 20-year wait
Lesedi Mkhutshwa | Tuesday March 31, 2026 10:20
Their promotion to the elite league is by virtue of being triumphant in the First Division North championship, which sent shockwaves across the village. Tonota FC's general manager, Modise Sifu, was happy that the team were on Saturday crowned champions, a feat that earned them an automatic qualification to join the Premier League for the 2026-2027 season.
He said they were happy that the club, which is celebrating 20 years of existence, has booked a spot to join big boys of local football for the first time ever.
'The mood is very high and everyone is very happy in the village about our win - the players, management, and villagers,' Sifu continued.
Following the promotion, he said they are ready for the Premier League, from management to the coach and even the players.
According to the manager, about 40% of their players have experience playing in the Premier League.
Sifu also said their coach has elevated five teams from the First Division to the Premier League before, so he is the right man to keep the team in the league.
'I, for one, was chairman of Santos team, and I understand what is needed in the Premier League,' he added.
Sifu said that in terms of preparedness, First Division on its own is demanding, and therefore he does not have a doubt that they will be able to make it in the Premier League.
He stated that during their away games, the team had travelled to Gaborone, Kasane twice, and even Maun. Sifu also said they have sponsors in place for the team's upkeep during their time in the Premier League.
Sifu said before becoming the First Division North champions, the team had a five-year strategic plan.
He stated that in just two years, they managed to gain a spot in the Premier League, and they will see what will happen during the remaining year.
The GM appreciated their sponsors who have been with them through thick and thin and called for more well wishers to join them.
He indicated that in their first game in Kasane, they played a draw, and most of their supporters were there, but they kept on supporting the team, hence the much-celebrated results.
Sifu also emphasised that it was not an easy journey, but they made it through the support from other stakeholders, such as the village leadership.
'Our intention is to take Tonota to the people across the country so that it can be well known,' he added.