Police IX, Gata crowned inaugural NEST Champions
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday April 6, 2026 17:45
Police staged a dramatic comeback to edge Titans 3-2 in a gripping women’s final, while Gatalamotho delivered a commanding performance in the men’s decider, overpowering Wells 15-6 in an electrifying Jwaneng derby.
Affectionately known as “Gata” by their passionate supporters, Gatalamotho booked their place in the final after a hard-fought 5-4 victory over Police IX in the semi-finals. On the women’s side, Police IX cruised into the final in emphatic fashion, dismantling BDF IX 8-0.
Police coach Phibion Tawina said the team had one clear objective which is winning the inaugural title by executing their plan to perfection.
“We had lost to Titans in a league game, and we did not want to exhaust ourselves during that match. Today, my players came to the party and delivered. We won this tournament without losing a single game,” he said.
“The win is for the players, not for me. As a coach, your role in a final is to motivate, and I did just that. They rose to the occasion. You also have to think smart so I knew we were going to win when Titans changed pitchers.”
Titans coach Dizzo Selemogwe admitted the game slipped through their fingers despite a strong start, as fatigue took its toll following a demanding semi-final clash against BDF.
“I thought we had the game under control from the first to the fourth inning. But fatigue became a major factor,” he said.
Selemogwe also criticised the tournament format used by the Botswana Softball Association (BSA), arguing that it disadvantages teams ahead of the final.
“I am not happy with the format used in these tournaments, where second-placed teams have to play each other before the final, especially in the women’s category. It makes it difficult for players to be in top form for the final,” he said.
“Regarding the pitching changes, I introduced Onneetse Seth-Ribbin to relieve Gotlamang Sixpence, but unfortunately, she was also fatigued, and Police capitalised on that.”
The inaugural NEST tournament delivered high-intensity action, dramatic turnarounds, and standout performances setting a strong foundation for what promises to become a premier fixture on Botswana’s softball calendar.