Seabata Mahao
Lesotho welcomes a new addition to its roster of officially recognised sports with the introduction of pickleball, a dynamic racket sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis.
Spearheaded by Sebolelo Ntlhokoe, a member of the Lesotho Sports and Recreation Committee (LSRC), pickleball has swiftly gained traction since its inception.
Pickleball involves two players in singles or four players in doubles, utilising smooth-faced paddles to volley a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a 34-inch-high net until one side fails to return the ball within the rules.
This versatile sport can be played both indoors and outdoors, offering flexibility and accessibility to enthusiasts of all ages.
Originally conceived in 1965 as a children’s backyard game on Bainbridge Island, Washington, USA, pickleball has evolved into a globally recognised sport, recently designated as the official state sport of Washington.
In an exclusive interview, Sebolelo Ntlhokoe expressed confidence in Lesotho’s ability to embrace pickleball. She highlighted ongoing initiatives to promote the sport, including a “train the trainers” program conducted with support from Zambian counterparts.
These trained individuals will play a pivotal role in cultivating local talent and organising future tournaments.
“We have established a national committee dedicated to the development of pickleball in Lesotho,” Ntlhokoe stated.
“Our focus is on securing funding to support players, facilities, and operational needs. We are also in the process of affiliating Lesotho pickleball with the World Pickleball Federation and Pickleball Africa, leveraging international recognition and support.”
Ntlhokoe further noted that pickleball is gaining momentum across Africa, with 31 countries involved and 19 actively organising or establishing their own federations. Lesotho joins a distinguished list of nations including South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe, committed to expanding the sport’s footprint on the continent.
As preparations continue, Ntlhokoe emphasised the inclusive nature of pickleball, promoting physical activity, community engagement, and healthy lifestyles among participants.
The sport’s introduction promises to enrich Lesotho’s sporting landscape while fostering international connections through its affiliations with global pickleball bodies.
