COSAFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE IN DOUBT FOR PRISONS
Prisons Ladies club’s participation at the COSAFA Women’ s Champions League currently hangs by a thread after it emerged that the club is facing financial constraints. While it is not yet clear what might be the cause of all the commotion, Prisons was chosen for the role to represent Botswana at the regional tournament based on their financial capability since they have the backing of the Botswana Prison Service (BPS). However, unofficial figures show that Prisons is likely to need close to P350 000 to cover all costs incurred in relation to taking part in the competition. However, due to the Covid-19 effects as well as the fact that local women’s football does not generate income, it will be very difficult for Prisons Club to raise that kind of money alone without the backing of the department (BPS).
Since local women’s football does not generate income and with COVID-19 effects raging through, it remains to be seen how BFA will assist Prisons on their African football journey. Sources close to the developments allege that the BFA is willing to assist Prisons team but they are just waiting for the club to pinpoint their shortcomings. To put an icing on the cake, the club even has a commitment letter from the BFA pledging their support. Though the issue of financial constraints keeps on cropping up, it has since emerged that the top brass at the club have since instructed that the players should not disperse but keep on training. Contacted for comment last week, Botswana Prison Service Assistant Commissioner, Wamorena Ramolefhe mentioned that they have discussed their logistical position with BFA.
However, in an interview this week, Ramolefhe said there is no vote supporting Prisons Sporting Club. “One of the requirements for participation was financial capability and preparedness but it looks like Prison Ladies Club overlooked their financial position before committing themselves to participating in the competition. There has never been any sponsorship from us towards Prisons Sporting Club,” he said.
“BFA wrote a commitment letter detailing how they can assist but still there is confusion. And the FA literally asked how much the club has such that they can assist the club where they are lacking. There is just too much confusion, I don’t see Prisons having a team if they don’t take part in this tournament, players are devastated, “said a source. Provided Prisons ends up pulling out of the tournament, they stand to face massive sanctions such as P60 000 fine and a possible two year suspension from Confederation African Football (CAF) competitions.
Despite the issue of financial constraints and Prisons likelihood of pulling out of the tournament, It seems like there was never an official communication from the Prisons club rubber stamping that. According to BFA Competitions Manager Setete Phuthego, they haven’t received any official correspondence from Prisons therefore they are constrained in commenting on the issue.
“We can only comment once we have received communication from the team. If indeed Prisons’ top brass have submitted anything, which is not correct they would be better placed to share with you. Prisons ladies team from our interactions with them is well aware of what the BFA can offer to assist,” he said.