Rugby endures trying times

Hanging on: Rugby had a vibrant base
Hanging on: Rugby had a vibrant base

The men's rugby national team, The Vultures used to be a force to reckon with, drawing representation from across local clubs. But the fortunes of the national team, and that of the sport in general, have nosedived in recent seasons, observes Staff Writer, CALISTUS KOLANTSHO in this instalment of Whither Botswana Sport

They say rugby is a sport loved by the gentry, played by hooligans. Partly true, partly false, but I have witnessed families come together to have drinks and a braai while enjoying a local game of rugby. The support was massive. There was action in the north with clubs such as EMG Gunners from Selebi-Phikwe and Tuskers from Francistown being tough contenders in the league. But there was a sudden turn in fortunes when the Botswana Defence Force withdrew financial and other assistance for the two clubs.

That paralysed rugby as the ripple effects were felt across. Sharks, Maun Dogs and Gantsi Hungry Lions have since vanished into thin air, leaving rugby poorer. The clubs were affected by lack of funding and lack of developmental coaches. The 7s team and Vultures have dropped in rankings, largely affected by a constricted pool of players. When sport was suspended due to COVID-19, there were only three clubs in the Super League, Cheetahs, Canon Jaguars and Gaborone Hogs. One of the rugby giants, UB Rhinos relegated to the President’s League.

Editor's Comment
Congratulations Anicia Gaothuse!

The contest had 10 beautiful young girls as finalists and unfortunately only one could wear the crown.The judges picked Anicia Gaothuse. To all those who feel their contestant should have won ahead of Anicia for whatever reason, hardly; the judges found Anicia to be the best among the best, so desist from disrespecting our newly crowned queen on social media or anywhere else, for that matter! Each of the 10 beautiful young women had supporters...

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