16 Jul 2026

Selebi Phikwe is gearing up for an action-packed long weekend, from July 18-21, as it plays host to the 17th edition of the highly anticipated Selebi Phikwe Softball Extravaganza. 

This year’s tournament has received a significant boost after securing a sponsorship package worth P80,000.

The event will feature 16 elite teams, divided equally into eight men’s and eight women’s sides, all battling for lucrative cash prizes. 

Beyond the on-field rivalry, the tournament promises to deliver top-tier entertainment and spark much-needed business activity within the copper mining town.

With the battle lines drawn, powerhouse clubs from across the country are ready to lock horns.

The women’s division will feature Comets, Titans, Carats, Wells, Ghetto Yankees, Panthers, Scramblers and Police IX while the men’s division comprises Comets, Rebels, Rail Giants, Carats, Panthers, BDF IX, Gatalamotho and Wells.

Each squad brings its unique strengths and tactical strategies to the diamond, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend of high-intensity softball.

In an interview, the Selebi Phikwe Softball Extravaganza local organising committee chairperson, Oeme Morupisi, said the tournament had matured into one of the country’s premier sporting spectacles, drawing passionate fans from every corner of Botswana.

Morupisi noted that the lucrative reward structure would ensure that no team went home empty-handed and every participating team is guaranteed a minimum payout of P15,000, while the ultimate champions will walk away with a grand prize of P50,000. 

He also indicated that the event went beyond mere competition as it served as a vehicle for community engagement and a tool to position Selebi Phikwe as a prime sport tourism destination.

“I appreciate our sponsors and all relevant stakeholders for their continued support, through sponsorship and partnership, the tournament has grown steadily over the years and ensured that participating teams receive meaningful rewards for their efforts,” Morupisi said.

For his part, Selebi Phikwe mayor, Oageng Makgosa, stated that the upcoming extravaganza would provide a vital platform for players to showcase their talents. 

Additionally, he said it was expected to stimulate economic activity in Selebi Phikwe by increasing demand for accommodation, transportation, food outlets and other local businesses as a large number of players, officials and supporters gather in the town.

He mentioned that the extravaganza tournament could generate valuable chain opportunities within the local economy. 

Taking advantage of such opportunities could not only spur innovation and growth in local businesses but also lead to transformative change in the town’s economic landscape.

The district commissioner, Boikhutso Matenge, emphasised the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the upcoming tournament. 

She stated that such teamwork was essential not only for the tournament’s success but also for promoting a positive image of Selebi-Phikwe on a larger scale. ENDS