30 Jan 2013

The Botswana squash national team is aiming to impress at the All-Africa Senior Squash Championships billed for Windhoek, Namibia from February 19-23.

The team selected by Botswana Squash Racket Association (BSRA) is made of four members, two male and two female players. 

The male players are the United States of America based Allister Walker and Lekgotla Masope, while the females are Leungo Motlhabane, who studies at the University of Cape Town, and Lady Leburu. 

There is provision for the team to have a fifth player who would act as a reserve. But that player is yet to be identified, according to BSRA development manager, Koketso Ntshebe.

“The technical team is not compelled to take along a reserve. However, we will decide whether to fill that slot with an upcoming young player or take one of the older players,” Ntshebe said.

The team under the guidance of former star Lefika Ragontse will make its maiden appearance at the continental squash extravaganza after years of participation at junior levels only.  

Despite being its first appearance at the competition, Ntshebe pointed out that the team was targeting success. He said they were aiming to win the team event for men because Walker and Masope were experienced players. 

Further, Ntshebe expected Walker to do well in the individual event. He added that though the females were not as experienced as their male counterparts, Motlhabane was an exciting prospect that can go far in the sport.

“We started preparing for the championships in October last year. At the moment the female players hold training sessions every evening at the squash centre. The two American based players would link with the rest of the team on February 8. They have been involved in competitions in the USA,” Ntshebe explained.

He said the competition would give local players further international exposure ahead of the World Squash Championships for men. 

The world event wii be held in France in June and Walker and Masope, together with two younger players will represent the country. Furthermore, Ntshebe said the experience to be garnered in Windhoek would put the team in good stead for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games.

The technical manager said the Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) will cover the team’s expenses for the championships. The team is expected to leave for Windhoek on February 18. ENDS