Rugby president resigns
Calistus Kolantsho | Friday March 23, 2018 15:34
Gilbert replaced Elijah Jones in 2016, but has decided to call it quits midway through his tenure.
However, some clubs are not aware of the changes at the top, which took place last month.
Secretary general, Ernest Mantsi said Gilbert cited personal reasons for his sudden departure.
Gilbert handed his resignation last month and Lesedi Keekae is the acting president. Bob Lekan, who was an additional member, is now the vice president-administration, replacing Keekae.
Some clubs however, are unaware of the new developments, despite Mantsi maintaining the BRU communicated about Gilbert’s departure.
BRU technical committee member and BDF Cheetahs coach, Shine Gabatladiwe said his club was unaware of the resignation as they have not received formal communication from the Union.
UB Rhinos chairperson, Thatayaone Malele equally said his club has not been informed of any changes at the BRU.
“We are still waiting for formal communication if there have been any changes made. We only heard through the rumour mill that Dave is no longer the president,” he said.
Jaguars founding chairperson, Munya Mhonda also said they have not been informed about Gilbert’s departure.
Mhonda said Gilbert had not achieved anything since he became president. Mhonda said he would like to know what pushed Gilbert out of office. He also said there was information that Botswana National Sport Commission (BNSC) was to intervene.
“My expectations of him was to bring the clubs together and unite everyone for a common goal,” he said.
He argued that the same physical and verbal fights from the last decade are still rampant. Mhonda said development rugby and club rugby is still not receiving the required attention.
“The BRU is yet to hire a chief executive officer (CEO) or general manager, which if done, would speed up response times and efficiency of the Union,” Mhonda said.
BNSC chief executive officer (CEO), Falcon Sedimo was not in a position to comment, instead saying the BNSC is following up the matter.
Meanwhile, the fight for supremacy in the Super rugby league continues tomorrow. Canon Jaguars host defending champions, BDF Cheetahs at LKC Ground.
A clash between the two sides always thrills. Jaguars lead the log with 14 points after winning all three matches. Last weekend they crushed Botho Ryders 88-10.
Cheetahs are second with nine points from two wins and a draw. BDF coach, Gabatladiwe said they know what to expect from their opponents.
He said his charges are ready to break Jaguars winning streak. “They broke our streak last season and now it is our turn to return the favour. The response from the players during training has been good and they are fired up ahead of the clash,” Gabatladiwe said.
He said they might be in third position at the moment, but they should not be ruled out of the title race. He said the league race is crucial from the semi-final stage.
Jaguars’ coach, Taku Mhonda said it is impossible to be 100% ready for a match.
“We have played all our matches without all our players. We are still missing Takura Nyatanga and Thapelo Morei who have been valuable players to us,” he said.
Mhonda said tomorrow’s game is another opportunity for other players to step up and fill the gap left by the two front players who are sidelined through injuries.
Mhonda said they are approaching the game with a different plan.
“We are playing two time champions and this would be a serious test for our young team. The approach would be different from what you have witnessed during our home games,” Mhonda said.