Chabeli takes on three-thronged initiative

SEBONGILE MATHE

MASERU – Erstwhile Lesotho Table Tennis president Mohatlane Chabeli remains deeply committed to the growth and development of the sport in Lesotho. This is despite stepping down from the presidency of the nascent sport.

Contrary to popular culture of completely stepping aside, Chabeli, an Executive Board Member of the Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation, is leveraging his international connections to bolster table tennis in the country.

He is proud of the significant support he is securing through the Commonwealth which he said is crucial for the development of the sport in Lesotho.

“The Commonwealth has given me a mandate, a task to strengthen table tennis in Lesotho,” he explained.

This support will manifest in several key ways; the provision of much-needed equipment for distribution to schools, the deployment of experienced coaches and umpires, and the organization of crucial training camps.

These three initiatives, Chabeli believes, will be transformative.

“The aim is to develop table tennis at the grassroots level,” he stated.

“We’ll be holding more frequent tournaments to bring communities together and identify young talent.”

The increased activity will not only boost participation but also provide opportunities for talented young players to emerge.

Chabeli’s dedication is unwavering.

He stressed that his departure from the presidency does not signify a withdrawal from the sport: “My goals and vision remain unchanged- to see table tennis thrive in Lesotho.”

To further raise the profile of the sport and engage the community, table tennis will participate in celebrations marking the King’s birthday this year.

While the exact venue remains unconfirmed, Matsieng remains the preferred location.

This participation promises to introduce table tennis to a broader audience and further its growth within the country.

Chabeli’s continued involvement, coupled with the substantial support from the Commonwealth Table Tennis Federation, signals a bright future for table tennis in Lesotho, promising a more active and competitive scene in the years to come.