Ntshinogang optimistic ahead of Olympic qualifiers
Calistus Kolantsho | Thursday February 11, 2016 14:33
Ntshinogang was speaking to Mmegi Sport after a send-off ceremony for the team at the National Stadium on Tuesday afternoon. He said he has worked with the team before as an assistant to former coach, Isaac Samuel. He said it has been a smooth transition since he took over the position and he still consults with his former boss when need arises.
Ntshinogang said he has had a chance to study some of their opponents.
He said the women’s team has shown tremendous growth and it is highly ranked on the continent. He said the intention is to reach the semi finals of the qualifiers.
“We just have to remain calm and focused. We should avoid mistakes because a lot will be at stake,” he said.
Meanwhile, speaking at the send-off ceremony, Botswana Volleyball Federation (BVF) president, Daniel Molaodi said most of the players have been part of the team for sometime and they had grown as individuals. He said development is important and it can only be possible if there is investment.
He said the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) assisted BVF to send the team for training in other countries in the past.
Some of the countries that are expected to give Botswana stiff competition are Egypt, Cameroon, Kenya, Algeria and Morocco.
“The team that finishes top qualifies automatically. Countries that finish in second and third position will have to go through the world qualification competition,” said Molaodi.
The acting permanent secretary in the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture, Kago Ramokate said the team must do its best to qualify for the World Cup.
He said competing in the qualifiers was an achievement. Ramokate said the steady upward trajectory in the African rankings not only shows growth of the women’s volleyball in the country, but also symbolises commitment. The team: Tebogo Sejewe (captain, Kutlwano), Caroline Rodger (Kutlwano), Tshiamo Chakalisa (Kutlwano), Karabo Molefha (Kutlwano), Thapelo Kamberuka (Kutlwano), Tsholofelo Retshabile (Mafolofolo), Chada Majaha (Mafolofolo), Kelebogile Mahupela (Mafolofolo), Gaoleseletse Gasekgonwe (Mafolofolo), Priscilla Nthaga (Mafolofolo), Gabaresepe Mashaole (Kalavango),), Kebabonye Phofedi (Kalavango), Justine Moyo (Dynamites) and Tracy Chaba (El Wadha).