By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
The recent elections for the Lesotho Volleyball Association (LVA) marks a significant moment in the country’s volleyball administration. The elections were held with a notable level of organisation and transparency, and while most positions were uncontested, the position of the LVA President attracted the spotlight.
The election for President of the Lesotho Volleyball Association saw Maj. HLAPANE TSHEHLO emerge victorious, officially taking up the mantle of leadership. Maj. Tshehlo had been serving as the acting President following the resignation of Mr. Lehlohonolo Ncheke, who stepped down from the position last year.
His temporary leadership is marked by stability and a strong focus on revitalising the LVA. With the election now officially confirming him as the President, Maj. Tshehlo brings a wealth of experience to the role, particularly his membership on the CAVB Zone VI Executive Committee Board, which enhances the LVA’s standing in the broader African volleyball community.
Although the presidential position was the only one to see contested voting, other key roles within the LVA also went through an election process. However, these positions were uncontested, with the nominees being passed by acclamation. The following appointments were confirmed:
- Vice President Administration: Sebolelo Ntlhokoe
- Secretary General: Pekosela Nthako
- Vice President Technical: Motlatsi Matlotlo
- Vice President Finance: Vacant
- Vice Secretary General: Vacant
The vacant positions present an opportunity for future appointments or elections to fill critical administrative roles within the LVA.
The election event is graced by the presence of the President of the Lesotho National Olympic Committee (LNOC), underscoring the significance of the occasion and the importance of volleyball in the country’s sports ecosystem. In his closing remarks, the LNOC President urged the involvement of young men and women in the administration of volleyball, stressing the importance of bringing fresh perspectives to the sport’s development in Lesotho. He highlights the need for enthusiastic and dedicated individuals to drive volleyball forward, calling on the new leadership to make meaningful contributions to the sport’s growth at all levels.
The LNOC President also extends congratulations to the newly elected committee members, urging them to serve the Basotho people with dedication, ensuring that their efforts would lead to increased participation and achievement in volleyball.
The newly elected leadership of the LVA is now tasked with guiding the sport in the country through a new era. Their role will be essential in developing and implementing strategies to foster volleyball from grassroots to elite levels. Maj. Tshehlo and his team are expected to focus on creating a stronger volleyball infrastructure, enhancing player development programs, and improving competition standards to elevate Lesotho’s standing in the international volleyball community.
Additionally, the presence of a youthful and dynamic team is expected to energise the LVA, bringing innovative approaches to how the sport is marketed, administered, and played. Through collaborative efforts, the new leadership will be expected to inspire greater participation in volleyball, thereby fulfilling the vision of expanding the sport across the country.
The successful completion of the elections has positioned the Lesotho Volleyball Association for significant strides in the development of volleyball in the country. With a leadership team that brings a mix of experience, commitment, and a forward-thinking approach, the future of Lesotho’s volleyball looks promising, with hopes for increased success both domestically and internationally.