BISA want P3million games budget increase
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday July 17, 2015 12:41
He said if the amount is availed, the competition would run smoothly with athletes given proper accommodation and fed three meals a day. He said that would also cover other logistics such as merchandising and taking care of coaches.
Jonas said during the recent games, athletes were sleeping in classrooms and the association provided them with one meal a day. He said schools took care of their athletes. Jonas said the association hosted the games with a tight budget, but managed to organise a successful competition.
“We had 5 000 athletes participating in the games. We had 11 codes and the standard of the competition improved compared to last year. Athletes have shown hunger to win and they have a passion for sport,” he said.
Jonas said the success of the games is an indication that BISA has the potential to host major games such as the Botswana Games.
BISA president, Joshua Gaotlhobogwe said the games went according to plan and while he was not the best person to make a judgement, there were an overall success.
Gaotlhobogwe noted that the finals for volleyball, softball and football attracted many people. He said there were no major incidents reported and that was an indication that there was cooperation among stakeholders.
“It was the first time that the opening ceremony was attended by the Minister of Education and Skills Development and her counterpart, the Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture. The government has promised to introduce awards for teachers involved in sports, which is an achievement,” said Gaotlhobogwe.
He said BISA also invited the anti-doping organisation that spoke against doping in sports.
Gaotlhobogwe observed that the athletes are not young anymore and they must be aware of the dangers of doping in sports. He said the athletes should not be surprised when asked to provide samples as they keep growing in sports. He said it is important for the athletes to stay away from doping if they are to succeed. Gaotlhobogwe, however, said there were no doping tests done on athletes.
He pointed out that it is high time the focus is shifted from the issue of teachers’ overtime allowances to the development of talent. Meanwhile, the northern zone came out victors; bagging 48 gold medals, 32 silver and 73 bronze medals. The north central zone came second with 42 gold, 33 silver and 51 bronze medals. South central followed with 29 gold medals, 36 silver and 54 bronze medals. The southern zone came last with 20 gold, 34 silver and 43 bronze medals.