BNOC, BAA standoff looms over Mosimanyane’s qualifications
Uproar between the Botswana Athletics Association (BAA) and Botswana National Olympic Committee (BNOC) regarding the future of national athletics assistant coach Kebonyemodisa ‘Dose’ Mosimanyane is building.
According to a letter from BNOC, following recommendation to offer Mosimanyane a one-year contract through continental scholarship funds after consultation with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the offer was not approved.
“The LOC is of the view that Mosimanyane does not qualify for the position because his Provincial Level 2 obtained from South Africa is not recognised by the World Athletics (WA). You are therefore kindly requested to submit to the BNOC a qualified coach to be considered for the offer,” the letter reads.
BAA vice president, Oabona Theetso told Mmegi Sport they had written a letter to BNOC requesting for Mosimanyane to be offered a continental scholarship.
“Our request was declined with the main reason being that his qualifications are not World Athletics accredited. Despite that, we still recognise him as BAA coach and we intend to engage BNOC further,” he said.
Theetso said the BNOC is the only one that claims Mosimanyane is not qualified.
When asked if there is a possibility that BNOC might replace Mosimanyane, Theetso said they would not allow anybody to travel with the national team when that person has not been there during spadework period.
“It would be irresponsible of anyone who would try that. This is not about individuals but about athletics. What message would we be sending to Mosimanyane and his athletes, including the nation?” Theetso wondered.
BNOC acting chief executive officer, Wedu Motswetla explained that the BNOC is the one that informs federations when there are scholarships.
“This year there were no such opportunities. The continental scholarship is for athletes not coaches.
However, Mosimanyane does not have basic coaching qualifications, only qualifications from South Africa. BNSC normally conducts Level 1 coaching courses until Level 3, but Mosimanyane has never attended,” she said.
Motswetla said when they set standards they do so for everyone. She said a decision would be taken by the LOC regarding his future as the national team coach.
Meanwhile, Mosimanyane said it is unfortunate that BNOC is not familiar with qualifications that he possesses.
“If anything, they should ask me how my qualifications measure up to the World Athletics certification,” he said.
Mosimanyane coaches Amantle Montsho, Galefele Moroko, Leungo Scotch, Baboloki Thebe, Karabo Sibanda and Tshepiso Masalela.