Softball
There is renewed mobilisation to revive softball in the province; with school sport as the key focus area.
The once-celebrated ballgame finds itself at this critical juncture of unprecedented decline and decay.
Observers note that the collapse of school sports has dealt a huge blow for various federations; and softball was not spared.
This comes after myriad clubs dismally failed to preserve their own legacies.
A trip down memory lane tells a tantalizing story about how celebrated teams like Mahwelereng Spikes; Seshego Cannons, and Lebowakgomo Wild Beasts drew large crowds to diamonds at townships and villages.
Their regular appearances in the then Great North Softball Association’s Hansa Classic remain some of the success stories of the game up north.
Their games were stuff of sporting legend and heritage.
The players were heroes; and some of their scintillating moves were individual skill-driven cameos.
Retired teachers turned-businessman; Willy Mabitsela says the game is in dire need of urgent renewal plan.
“Despite the province being blessed with decorated administrators who have ascended to the highest echelons at national; the game is noticeably teetering on the brink of collapse.
Teams are slowly disappearing from the public domain, and there seem to be no new clubs emerging from relative obscurity.
One of the contributing factors could be attributed to the reluctance among retired players to play active roles in managing and coaching their respective clubs;” said Mabitsela.
Softball games are now without spectators simply because former players have lost their love and interest in the sport and are now minding their own businesses.
Limpopo Softball Association’s Head of Marketing and Publicity; Moyahabo Mabeba concedes that the game is currently in ICU and in dire need of resuscitation.
He says; “A Softball Indaba comprising retired legends; current players and the entire softball fraternity should meet urgently to map a forward to rescue the game from the abyss of despair.”