'Lizzy' makes immediate impact in Rwanda
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday January 31, 2020 12:05
She plays alongside another local player, Tshiamo Chakalisa. Gasekgonwe’s talents have seen UTB qualify for the semi-finals of the Heroes tournament.Gasekgonwe told Mmegi Sport that she had a good game over the weekend, which helped her team to progress to the semi-finals.
“The competition here is not that strong. I could say it is at the same level as in Botswana. The men’s volleyball is the one that is stronger than what we are used to back home,” she said.
Gasekgonwe said the presence of Chakalisa has made it easy for her to settle into the new system. She said her new coach, Mbanza Sylvestre is yet to see her dominance on the field as she promises more fireworks. The former Mag Stimela player caught the eyes of UTB scouts during the national team Tokyo 2020 qualifiers that were played in Rwanda.
Gasekgonwe said she would like to continue playing for UTB for a longer period, beyond her current contract.
For his part, Sylvestre said the Heroes tournament is an annual event and they are the defending champions. He said the intention is to retain the title. Sylvestre said they are excited to have signed the two Botswana players.
“Lizzy is good and Tshiamo would soon be the best centre player on the continent. You would see them in the Africa Club Championship.
Lizzy is a mature player,” he said.
Sylvestre said considering the qualities that Gasekgonwe has, it is an indication that Botswana has a good volleyball system. He said the country has to focus on young talent, adding that looking at Gasekgonwe’s age, 34, she is about to retire.
When asked if they do not face sponsorship challenges like in Botswana, Sylvestre said there was no such problem there. He said volleyball has a large following in Rwanda.
“UTB is a university where we give scholarships and living allowances to players. Gasekgonwe has a scholarship,” he said.