23 Jan 2025

Botswana Table Tennis Association (BTTA) will on Saturday host its annual national selections at Babusi Hall in Gaborone. 

With registration having ended on January 22, players have already secured their spots in the highly anticipated event. BTTA’s public relations officer, Tshegofatso Malepa said that the selection process would identify six players, three men and three women to join the national team.

They will join Tshepiso Rebatenne and Bakang Ramoloka, who have already secured their places as the top-ranked players from the previous season. The selections aim to form a team to represent Botswana in upcoming tournaments, including the Region 5 Games and other international competitions.

“The selection is open to all ages and we are prioritising skills. Only those who make it to the top three in their respective categories will be selected,” Malepa explained. 

The tournament draw is scheduled for January 24. Malepa highlighted financial constraints as a significant challenge. 

“Funding limits our ability to participate in international tournaments, which are essential for improving our players’ rankings,” she said.

In line with the association’s regulations, she said no byes would be granted, as the top-ranked players were already on the team and would not participate in the selections. She said coaches for the national team would be appointed by the association after the selection process.

“No late entries will be accepted, except under unforeseen circumstances, and even then, a late submission will incur a fine of 25 per cent of the entry fee,” Malepa revealed.

The tournament will adhere to the International Table Tennis Federation Tournament Referees Handbook.  

“All matches will be officiated by BTTA-appointed umpires, and the association reserves the right to adapt as necessary,” she concluded. ENDS