The Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC) has concluded a two-week training programme targeting both athletes and management staff of the national training centre.
The programme, which was officially closed last Friday, represents a significant stride in the LNOC’s ongoing efforts to develop sports talent in the country, with a special focus on badminton.
It aimed to enhance athletes’ development at both national and international levels, while also identifying and nurturing emerging talent from the grassroots. The initiative forms part of LNOC’s broader strategy to integrate various sporting disciplines into a comprehensive athlete development framework.
Representing the participants, badminton trainee Phetho Lithathane expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“The training has been incredibly beneficial for us, and we are eager to apply the skills and techniques we’ve learned to help grow the sport of badminton in Lesotho,” Lithathane said.
Lithathane further emphasised the importance of sharing the newly acquired knowledge with others, aiming to expand badminton’s popularity and reach across the country.
“It is our responsibility to spread what we’ve learned to others, so that badminton and other emerging sports can thrive here in Lesotho,” he concluded.
Badminion coach Ahmed Reda commended the LNOC for its efforts and noted the enthusiasm of local athletes.
“This has been a truly intensive and rewarding experience. I am optimistic about the potential of Lesotho’s athletes, and I look forward to contributing to their growth and success in the future,” Reda remarked.
LNOC’s President, Letsatsi Ntsibolane, underscored the value of such training initiatives in preparing athletes for international competition.
“Training like this is essential for ensuring that our athletes are properly developed, not just focusing on those already established, but also cultivating new talent that will represent Lesotho globally in the future,” said Ntsibolane. “Our mission is to empower athletes so they can excel not only at home but also on international platforms.”
Parallel to the athletes’ training, a one-week session for management staff was also held. This aspect of the programme aimed to improve administrative systems within the national training centre and contribute to the overall development of sport in Lesotho. The LNOC is striving to build a sustainable framework that supports both athletes and sports administrators.
“Improving the systems and structures that support athletes is just as crucial as developing the athletes themselves. By strengthening the infrastructure around sports, we can ensure that our athletes are given every opportunity to succeed.”
A key element of the LNOC’s long-term plan includes establishing new training centres in various districts to decentralise access to coaching and development programmes. These centres are expected to play a pivotal role in preparing athletes for major competitions, including the 2032 Olympic Games in Australia.
“The long-term goal is to have athletes ready for the 2032 Olympic Games in Australia. We want our athletes to be not just participants, but competitive contenders on the global stage,” said Ntsibolane.
The Commissioner of the National Training Centre, Letlaka Banyane, also expressed appreciation for the LNOC’s initiatives, highlighting the importance of involving seasoned professionals in talent development.
“I believe the work done so far has laid a solid foundation for the development of sports management in the country. We are confident that we will soon have a generation of professionals, both men and women, who will be equipped to manage and guide Lesotho’s athletes to international success,” said Banyane.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
