Dennis Moabi
13 November 2009
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When Losikalwame 'Six' Keatlholetswe was appointed Botswana Football Association (BFA) technical director, I was probably one of only a few who felt that his ascendancy to that position was premature. Yes he was Botswana's most qualified and probably most successful coach then, looking at his achievement with BDF XI. But I was convinced then that he was not a fully finished product. I wanted him to continue coaching especially the Zebras where he was replaced by the late Zambian, Kenny Mwape.
He did not take kindly to his ouster as Zebras' coach and he told the BFA in no uncertain terms that he felt insulted and undermined to be replaced by someone less qualified and experienced. It was a decision, which gave him second thoughts about his future dealings with the BFA.
Yet the quest to find someone to replace the then technical director, Ben Koufie grew louder and Keatlholetswe was the most qualified person but looking at his age, he was very much in his prime as a coach. I felt that he needed more exposure as a coach at well-established and professionally run-clubs.
His only experience was with BDF XI before he assumed full mandate as the BFA technical director. He had a comparatively very successful short stint with Mochudi Centre Chiefs. Perhaps one of his memorable games was when he led Chiefs from 3-0 down at half time to draw 3-3 with Township Rollers in a game of two halves.
Now Kealtholetswe's contract with the BFA has not been renewed and he is currently working on a three-month extension which ends next month. The question is: where to from here for Keatlholetswe? Make no mistake; he is a knowledgeable coach who puts teamwork and results above everything else. He is a complete opposite of current Zebras' head coach, Stanley Tshosane. I am certain that some of the players may not take kindly to his language during training sessions. Are there any football structures that can absorb him or is it up to him to find something to do? The uncertain fate of Keatlholetswe perhaps belies the gaps or weaknesses in our football structures.
The likes of Tlhagiso Sethibe, Philemon Makwengwe and Tshepo Mphukuti should perhaps be thrown into the deep end to coach certain clubs or national team so that they gain valuable experience. They all have the knowledge but as we all know, practice is the best teacher. Can Rollers, Chiefs, Notwane or Gaborone United engage the services of these people without having a feeling that they would be compromising on service delivery? Botswana needs more football technicians on the field and it is not enough to be stuck with just one.
For example, I understand that GU coach, Mike Sithole, once served as manager of the Zambian Under-23 side while Wesley Mondo, was the head coach. This perhaps explains why Sithole has been an instant hit in Botswana.
He has been more exposed to the various needs and behaviour of players.I will however be watching with keen interest to see where Keatlholetswe goes from here. And, having said that, I want to congratulate Tshosane on his appointment as Zebras' coach.
Having been part of the set up, he should do much better than all the other coaches although he is faced with a mammoth task to convince many that he is the right man to lead the Zebras. If he fails, this could precipitate the downfall of David Fani and his executive as they will be accused of blundering. In a way, the BFA has firmly put the ball into Tshosane's court to pass judgment on himself.
His major task will be first to win the confidence of the players. The players' demands and expectations are different from what they were 10 years ago. They need a coach who can apply the right tactics and strategy at the right time; a coach who can properly analyse a game and above all, a coach who can motivate them.
I was disappointed to see Onalethata Tshekiso getting the nod in the national team ahead of GU striker, Botlhe 'Ringo' Rankgomo. There is also Malepa Bolelang. I believe that he needs special treatment or training so that he can carry his club form to the national team. Tshosane has to establish how best to use him and if he is in doubt, he should consult with both Barry Daka and Atshele Molapi for they have brought the best out of the player.
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