10 Aug 2015

An underdeveloped football ground and lack of shelter to accommodate teams are some of the challenges that Black Rangers Football Club of Tsabong has to address before the Debswana First Division South league action starts in a few weeks time.

The club secretary, Daniel Molefe confirmed that the ground they were going to use was underdeveloped.

“The fencing that surrounds Tsabong Football Ground is worn out and needs to be revamped. We have approached the Department of Culture and Youth to assist develop the ground and have pledged to help,” he said. 

Molefe said the department was willing to release P300 000 that would be channeled towards restoring the worn out fence as well as constructing decent shelters for teams. 

“Despite all this positive initiative by the department, other players are dragging their feet and impeding progress,” said Molefe. “For the department to initiate the refurbishment at the playground they need to get authority from the Kgalagadi District Council. I am confident that the youth department has approached council representatives seeking permission. The council authorities are yet to give permission for these developments to be carried out,” he explained.

Molefe said he does not know why the process was taking long. He stated that the fencing would help the club to get gate takings when the season commences.

On administrative matters, Molefe said they were making strides. He said a die-hard supporter has provided them with a house which would serve as a club house. He said the house would be a meeting place for players before matches as well as holding club functions.

Molefe said systems were in place to launch numerous fundraising activities. 

He said they have approached the local business community appealing for financial assistance, adding that there were those willing to help. 

He explained that the Member of Parliament for Kgalagadi South, Mr Frans van der Westhuizen was the club’s patron, adding that he was busy soliciting financial support and partnership from parties outside Tsabong.

On the challenge of transport, Molefe said they were making progress as they have approached a renowned transport operator plying the Ghanzi-Gaborone and Hukuntsi-Gaborone routes to assist them. 

He said the club management has struck a deal with local technical sponsors dlala, saying they were expecting the first batch of training gear and the full kit which consists of the home, away and the alternative kits to arrive.

Molefe said only Thato Ebuleng was transferred to Lobatse based Extension Gunners for a standard fee of P1 500. He said they have also signed a few experienced campaigners.

“Six players have arrived so far. These include two from Ghanzi Terrors and one from Hukuntsi Sand Diamonds,” said Molefe.

He added that their aim was to safeguard top flight status hence consolidating the squad.ENDS