30 Mar 2020

Being stuck in a foreign country and not knowing what tomorrow might bring is scary, especially in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to volleyball star, Thapelo Kamberuka.

Kamberuka, who recently added her name to a list of players plying their trade in the professional setup outside the country, said in an interview recently that though she was not the only Botswana player in Rwanda, she was locked up in her own house.

She explained that she stays in a town called Remare while other players, Gaoleseletse Gasekgonwe and Tshiamo Chakalisa stay in Sonatube, which was a bit stressful for her.

“I am grateful that people up here are loving, caring and kind.

They make me feel safe and less depressed during this trying time,” she said.

Kamberuka said she does not regret going to Rwanda, as her teammates and coaches had shown her hospitality, even outside the courts, which was commendable.

She said such hospitality on its own was some sort of counselling, as being in a negative environment at this time can be depressing.

“I do miss home at times, but I found a family here in Rwanda and they have been nothing but awesome,” she said.

Fédération Internationale de Volleyball instructor, Shadrack Modiakgotla said though there was no formal communication between the players outside the country and the federation, he had taken it upon himself to personally communicate with them and assure them that with adherence to all the measures, everything would be fine in the end.

He said he could not be happier that Rwanda took the decision to go on lockdown sooner, which on its own brings hope that the players would be safe, if they adhere.

Kutlwano Volleyball Club spokesperson, Tjiapo Madeluka said they were communicating with the players daily, to hear what measures were in place that side and whatever new information that they do not have, they make suggestions to them.

“We also advised them to do exercises that are in-door friendly and not go to the gym.

The time will come for them to go back to their normal training, just not now and that is one big sacrifice they have to make for the sake of their good health,” he said. ENDs