13 Dec 2023

Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) hosted a national community sport programme recently.

The association’s vice president, Oabona Theetso said the objective of the programme was to provide a platform for individuals of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to engage in athletics training and competitions through all levels. He said the training was conducted in Gaborone, Maun, Serowe, Molepolole, Lobatse, Francistown,

Kang and Selibi Phikwe, adding that they managed to train teachers and some community members. Theetso said these spent a lot of time with children and noted that they offered a Level 1 coaching course, as they wanted the community to be part and parcel of athletics.

He said athletics could not only be limited to clubs and that they found it imperative to train community members so that they could have a sense of belonging.

Theetso added that they were trying to bridge the gap of the absence of school sport, adding that they were banking on the community to assist.

He also said they engaged some councillors because they were close to the community and could assist them to spread the programme.

The administrator said the programme was also in line with their 2024 strategic plan and that they strived for success at both continental and international competitions.

He said he was confident that they would meet their objective of increasing the number of athletes and their participation in different competitions. ENDS