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D-License coaching course with a difference

Jun 23, 2021

GABORONE, Botswana – About 20 aspiring coaches have concluded in the Botswana Football Association (BFA) D-License coaching course at Lekidi Football Centre in Gaborone. Coordinated by BFA Instructor, Barobi Nwako assisted by Vincent Dlamini, the weeklong course, which covers modules from grassroots to preliminary started on Monday, June 14th and will end today (Friday, June 18th).

The course, which was divided into two parts; theory and practical sessions drew aspiring coaches from the Northern block region which include Boteti, Chobe and FRAFA respectively. Nwako said it is important for aspiring coaches to take up such courses so that they understand the technical dynamics of the coaching world.

Amongst some of the modules covered include code of conduct, what makes a good coach, importance of warm-up and cool down, different coaching styles, how do young players learn, components of a coaching session-SMILES and STEPS in football, safeguarding children’s rights, session planning, community development through football, skills and qualities of a good coach, and the infusion of life skills in football sessions.

The participants were also put into working groups for a case study, which saw them develop a grassroots festival which accorded them an opportunity to understand the different stages of learning for diverse age groups. Nwako added, “it is important for the BFA to invest in training more coaches as this ensures that there is a sound development system coming from the ground upwards. This group of coaches are excited and willing to learn and share their skills and I am also impressed to see former players venturing into coaching. Their presence further assures that they are not lost to football.” Some of the players who had enrolled for the course include Township Rollers captain, Maano Ditshupo.

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BOTSWANA U-20 WOMEN EXIT WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS WITH PRIDE AFTER HOME VICTORY

The Botswana U-20 Women’s National Team bowed out of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers 2026 on a positive note after securing a 1–0 victory over Cameroon U-20 Women’s National Team this past weekend, despite a 5–1 aggregate defeat.

Having suffered a heavy 5–0 loss in the first leg played on 7 February 2026 at Olembe Stadium in Cameroon, the Young Mares showed resilience and determination in the return leg at Obed Itani Chilume Stadium.

Forward Mbapeua Hangara scored the decisive goal in the second half, giving Botswana a deserved win in front of their home supporters and demonstrating the team’s fighting spirit until the final whistle.

Head coach Tapaphiwa Tracey Gaebolae expressed pride in her players performance and attitude, emphasizing the positive response after the first-leg setback.

“We are very proud of the girls. Even though we didn’t get the result we wanted in Cameroon, we came here with a positive mindset. The message to the team was that we needed to score more goals, stay organized, and believe in ourselves and I think the players responded very well.” Coach Gaebolae alluded at the post match Technical press conference.

Despite exiting the competition, the Young Mares leave the qualifiers with valuable international experience and renewed confidence, highlighting the growth and potential of women’s football in Botswana.