The Botswana Softball Masters Association (BOSMA) is preparing to host a major international masters softball tournament in Jwaneng from May 14 to 16.
The event will bring together teams from Botswana, South Africa, and Lesotho in what promises to be a celebration of sport, friendship, and regional unity.
This highly anticipated tournament is set to attract players, supporters, and softball enthusiasts from across Southern Africa, further cementing Botswana’s growing reputation as a regional sporting hub. Beyond the competition, organisers expect the event to stimulate the local economy through increased tourism and business opportunities for vendors and service providers in Jwaneng.
Botswana’s participating teams include Freesouls, Saints, Diphala, Divas, Diamonds, Steelers, SoBall Dads, Kalahari Desert Kings, and Orapa Masters. South Africa will be represented by Moletlane Texas, Best Batters, Flames, Olympia, and Brewers, while Lesotho’s Kings are also expected to compete.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, BOSMA chairperson Tsuna Makwa expressed confidence in the association’s readiness and enthusiasm to welcome regional teams. “We are extremely excited and honored to welcome our brothers and sisters from Lesotho and South Africa to Jwaneng for this prestigious tournament. This event is not only about competition, but also about celebrating the love of softball, healthy living, friendship, and regional unity,” Makwa said.
She added that preparations are progressing smoothly, with organising committees working tirelessly to ensure seamless logistics and a memorable experience for players and supporters alike. “BOSMA is fully committed to hosting a professional and successful tournament. We have assembled dedicated teams to oversee logistics, accommodation, transport, officiating, and player welfare. We want every participant to leave Jwaneng with great memories and appreciation for Botswana hospitality,” she said.
The tournament arrives at a time when masters sport is gaining momentum across the region. It offers former athletes a chance to stay active, competitive, and connected to the sporting community long after their prime years. In softball, masters competitions have become vital in preserving the sport’s legacy while mentoring younger generations.
Organisers promise fans high-quality matches featuring experienced players who continue to play a key role in developing softball in their countries. The event is expected to showcase not just skill and competitiveness, but also the enduring passion many players have for the game.
Importantly, the tournament is also set to provide an economic boost to Jwaneng. Hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, transport operators, and informal traders are likely to benefit from the influx of visitors over the three days.
Spectator entry fees have been set at P30 per day, with vehicle parking costing P20 daily. Organisers are hopeful that strong public support will create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the tournament.
Makwa acknowledged the crucial support of sponsors and stakeholders, singling out Debswana Diamond Company, the tournament’s main sponsor, for their financial and in-kind contributions.
“Sport has the power to unite communities and inspire future generations. As BOSMA, we are proud to play our part in keeping softball alive and creating opportunities for masters players to continue participating competitively,” she said.
For Botswana softball, this event marks another significant milestone in the sport’s continued growth. Softball has historically enjoyed strong support in mining towns and local communities, producing talented athletes and competitive clubs. Masters competitions now offer experienced players a platform to remain involved while sustaining interest in the game. BOSMA believes the tournament will also encourage greater corporate and community support for softball, especially at grassroots and recreational levels.