21 Apr 2022

The softball fraternity is in mourning following the demise of former softball association president, Andrew Mokoto, who was buried on Easter Monday.

During a memorial service at National Diamond on Wednesday, speakers described the 80-year-old Mokoto as a softball die-hard who made things happen till his last days.

The news of his  death last week shattered the softball community as Mokoto was instrumental in the running and success of the sport.  

Botswana Softball Association (BSA) president, Katlholo Mosimanegape, said the association had lost a great man who was always willing to assist them whenever they encountered problems.

He said Mokoto had interest of softball at heart and sacrificed a lot because of his love of the sport.

He told mourners that despite his old age old, Mokoto never wanted to sit back and watch, but was hands on and preferred to be roped in the association’s dealings such participating in all the preparations of tournaments and the code’s other activities.

Mosimanagape told mourners that given his commitment and contribution towards the development of softball in the country it would be befitting to name the National Diamond after Mokoto, as a token of appreciation.

For his part, former BSA vice president and national team coach, Fred Morton, said Mokoto was a hard worker and action oriented, a characteristic that saw him always being the first person to arrive at the National Diamond to mark the pitch to enable teams to commence immediately after arrival.

Morton said given the financial limitations that faced the association then, Mokoto used his properties to run the BSA undertakings, citing the use of his family vehicle.

Another former softball player, Thuli Johnson, described Mokoto as a father of all who ensured that each and every player was fed before going to play.

His son Karabo Mokoto said his father was an incredible man who provided for his family and ensured that they had the guidance they needed.

 “I am grateful for my father and I miss him every day, today I am remembering him and the great memories we shared,” he said.

Mokoto said he was still numb and trying to come to terms with his father’s death.

He said he found it difficult to give a fitting tribute despite being cognisant of a lot that could be said to describe his father.

Mokoto who originated from Good hope is survived by a son and a daughter and three grandchildren. ENDS