Retshabile proves her mettle as best blocker

Calistus Kolantsho | Friday December 1, 2017 12:24

Tsholo has moved on to become one of the game’s brightest players, and maintained a close relationship with the volleyball court. She told Mmegi Sport this week that Lekula saw her potential from the beginning and believed she had the potential to succeed. “Lekula told me that I am going to be a centre blocker and indeed I became a good one,” she said. The coach’s words remained firmly planted in Tsholo’s head and today she is enjoying the fruits of her hard work. She joined Mafolofolo in 2004, when she was cutting her teeth in professional volleyball. “I have been playing for Mafolofolo for more than 10 years and I am enjoying every moment. We have won many cups, I have lost count. Last year, we won the Botswana Volleyball Federation Mascom league and the Zone VI Club Championships held in Swakopmund, Namibia,” she said.

Tsholo said playing under the guidance of Kabo Ntshinogang puts the icing on the cake. She described Ntshinogang as a good coach who always wants the best for his players. She said one of the players who always inspire her at Mafolofolo is Kelebogile Mahupela. When asked about her combination with Lizzy Gasekgonwe, Tsholo could not hide her excitement. She said Gasekgonwe makes it simple for her to do her duties as a blocker. She also trusts Gasekgonwe as a good attacker.

Tsholo is based in Selebi-Phikwe where she trains with a local team and only meets her Mafolofolo teammates on match days. She said the arrangement does not derail her plan because she continues doing physical training at her base. In 2005, Tsholo received a national team call-up. She said she always works hard to remain in the team. “I put in so much effort in order to earn my stripes,” she said.

Tsholo was adjudged the most valuable player and best blocker during the JB Sports tournament that was held in Molepolole last week. Tsholo said it was an honour to win both awards but gave all the credit to her teammates. For her part, Gasekgonwe said she has been playing with Tsholo since 2003. She described Tsholo as a person who has a fighting spirit especially when she plays against a challenging opponent.

“We always advise each other during the game. When we are together, we are not scared of any team. Having a good blocker and an attacker, what more can you ask for? I always tell her that she is the best blocker in the country and she must work with upcoming players so that they can learn from her,” Gasekgonwe said.

FACT FILE

Full names: Tsholofelo Retshabile

Date of birth: 27 May 1985

Place of birth: Maun

Sport: Volleyball

Club: Mafolofolo

Position: Centre Blocker

Jersey number: 12

Other sport: Netball