Darts body seeks to shed bar image
Calistus Kolantsho | Wednesday October 29, 2014 16:38
BDA treasurer, Kgara Madandune told Mmegi Sport yesterday that their intention is to introduce the sport in all government schools across the country. She said they want to introduce the sport at grassroots to give young talent the necessary skill.
Madandune said most people take darts as a sport played mostly in bars and the association intends to change the thinking.
“Most children are interested in playing darts but the problem is the tag of being a bar sport. We will not let that dampen our spirits to grow the code. So far we have children in junior schools who take part in competitions,” she said.
Madandune said the majority of schools in places such as Francistown, Tutume, Bobonong and Rakops have started playing darts. She said they have roped in some teachers in the north to drill the students.
Madandune stated that there are physically challenged people keen on the sport but the BDA faces a challenge with specialist coaches. The association has to liaise with the Paralympics Association of Botswana (PASSOBO) for tailor make programmes to benefit the disabled. Madandune said BDA has a league just like other sports codes. There are 10 teams in the north and 13 from then the south which compete in the league that has both men and women sections.
Madandune said sponsorship remains a challenge and forces the association to use affiliation fees to run the league. She said BDA needs a sponsor to improve the quality of the league. “We have submitted proposals to different companies seeking sponsorship with no luck. (But) even if we do not have the funds, the sport has to continue,” she vowed.
Madandune said that the sport has grown as evidenced by the performance of the national team at international competitions. The Botswana team participated at the Zone Six competition in Zimbabwe and came home with 43 medals. Madandune said countries such as South Africa and Lesotho take darts as a professional sport, but in Botswana, it is treated as a social activity.