Often regarded as one of the lesser known sporting codes with less followers and players in the country, Botswana Cricket Association (BCA) had to become as innovative as possible to put that to an end.
Development wise BCA is several steps ahead and working tirelessly to step up and teach cricket countrywide for it to be recognized and get to be known across the country.
Innocent Chando, a development coach for the ladies team for BCA says it is their duty and responsibility to nurture and augment the sporting code in the country. He said, “We have to start teaching this sport to pupils at an early age, so that the students can adopt it and grow with it whilst mastering it.”
He added that they just have to start with tightening foundations of basics of cricket, and others will follow naturally. The basics are very vital for the growth of cricket in the country, without them then it is a dead end for those interested in the sport.
“There are about 10 coaches who have all embarked to different schools to conduct daily training for the pupils, in primary and junior schools, instilling the discipline of the game. From there we conduct training courses for teachers,” he said.
“So far I have covered 8 primary schools in Phikwe which include Botshabelo, Segomotso, Lapologang, Boitshoko, Reuben Mpabanga, Tebogo and Boswelakgomo which are all primary schools. Phatsimo Junior School is the only secondary that I have covered, and so far I am impressed with the interest of the students in these schools. They are showing so much dedication and I guess at the end of it all the game is spread to the locals countrywide,” said Chando.
It seems the coaches are making inroads as the response of the students and the teachers in general is promising.
“The biggest challenge that is with the sport is for you to get it there, is to build its awareness very well, which BCA is doing at the moment,” he concluded.
