Volleyball turns the corner
Calistus Kolantsho | Monday July 20, 2026 06:00
The federation was marred by administrative chaos, which led to a motion of no confidence against the executive committee last year. A new committee was elected into office and is putting things back together.
BVF media relations and marketing officer, Joe Brown Tlhaselo, told MmegiSport that after a full year without volleyball activities in 2025, their immediate mission as the newly elected committee was clear.
He explained that their aim was to restore visibility and momentum for the sport.
“The one-round league was not just a competition format; it was a deliberate strategy to reignite public interest and rebuild the sport’s footprint across Botswana,” he said.
“That is why we also rebranded the league to be known as the National Volleyball League (NVL). It is sellable. Our focus was to create a credible reference point for sponsors.”
Tlhaselo added that in sport marketing, partners want something tangible that demonstrates value and potential.
He said through the league that ended over the weekend, BVF established a solid foundation.
He said the improved team participation, renewed fan engagement, and consistent coverage has given the federation the data and stories they need to approach sponsors with confidence.
“We are now transitioning from visibility to strategic partnerships. We are working on launching a BVF website which will serve as a central hub for information, merchandise sales, and digital engagement, a platform we intend to monetise and use to strengthen our systems. “This is a part of a broader plan to make volleyball not just sustainable, but commercially viable,” Tlhaselo said.
He described their approach as 'simple yet smart.'
“To build visibility, prove value, and then attract partnerships that last. The one-round league was the spark; the next phase is about turning that spark into a steady flame of growth and innovation for Botswana volleyball,” Tlhaselo added.
BVF vice president technical, Shadrack Modiakgotla, said the league, dominated by Police VI, both men and women, demonstrated steady growth in competitiveness and professionalism.
According to Modiakgotla, they have seen improved team structures, with some clubs now attracting players from outside the country, a clear sign of progress.
He said challenges persist in sponsorship sustainability and facility access.
“Hiring venues that meet minimum standards proved costly, whilst affordable ones were often far from reach, increasing travel and operational expenses for clubs. Despite these hurdles, the clubs’ commitment ensured the league delivered positive results, even under a one-round format,” Modiakgotla noted.
Modiakgotla said volleyball has turned the corner; although the start was slow, the technical quality and skill level improved as the season progressed.
“Whilst we may not yet fully reflect the federation’s strategic reforms, the league’s trajectory has provided valuable guidance for future planning. Aligning with the international season calendar has strengthened our long-term vision for regional competitiveness and athlete development,” Modiakgotla said.
He said lessons picked from the season include the importance of early fixture planning, effective digital communication for match coordination, and continuous education for referees, coaches, and administrators.
Modiakgotla said they have also emphasised club accountability, governance, and compliance that are vital pillars for sustainable growth and integrity in volleyball.
“We are planning a youth league or tournament, which is not an immediate engagement; it is a long-term strategy. That is meant to address the current gap left by the absence of School Sport. Preparations for the AUSC Region 5 Games in Mozambique are ongoing,” Modiakgotla said.