Spiking Stars Volleyball Club women’s team is intensifying preparations for the 2025 Women’s Africa Club Championship, set to take place in Abuja, Nigeria, from April 1 to 14. The tournament will bring together Africa’s top 24 teams in a highly competitive showdown.
Despite their dedication and rigorous training, the team faces financial challenges that could hinder their participation. Team manager Thabo Tlale expressed concerns over funding, stating that while preparations were progressing well, additional support was needed to ensure the team’s full participation.
The Botswana National Sports Commission has provided P250,000, covering air tickets for some team members. However, an additional P250,000 is required to cover expenses such as accommodation, food, and local travel while in Abuja. Tlale has made an urgent appeal to businesses and individuals to assist in bridging this financial gap.
“We are hopeful that in the few days left, help will come our way and make our participation in the championship possible,” Tlale said.
He emphasized that Spiking Stars’ participation would be a proud moment for Botswana, as the country has lacked volleyball representation on the international stage for some time.
“We will not be Spiking Stars Volleyball Club when in Abuja, but we are representing the country and shall be referred to as a women’s volleyball team from Botswana. That is why I am appealing to everyone who has the ability to assist us to kindly do so. Those little contributions will go a long way in making sure that we depart for Abuja as planned,” he added.
The club had initially hoped to play friendly matches against teams from neighboring countries as part of their preparations. However, due to financial limitations, they have had to rely on the ongoing volleyball league to fine-tune their skills ahead of the championship.
A 20-member delegation has been assembled, consisting of 14 players, a match official, a medical officer, a head of delegation, a team manager, a coach, and an assistant coach.
With time running out, the team remains optimistic that the necessary support will come through, allowing them to compete on the continental stage and raise Botswana’s volleyball profile internationally.
