Botswana: Police XI Football Club honoured the legendary Betsho Pius by retiring Jersey Number 12, which he has donned for the past 21 years as a player for the Club.
Speaking at an exclusive farewell dinner held for the renowned Midfielder this Saturday (26/08/2023) at Tlotlo Hotel and Conference Center in Gaborone, Police XI Chairperson, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Elizabeth Mamapilo stated that the Club has decided to retire Betsho Pius’ Jersey No. 12 to honour his legacy.
She commended the iconic player for his loyalty, commitment and exceptional service, which he rendered to the Club for over two decades. She said the illustrious football player has been with the Club through its best and worst times, stating that this kind of dedication cannot be taken for granted as it shows the deep love and affection the player has towards his Club.
Betsho Pius, alias Gama aka Tshola uzwe, joined the Jungle Kings in 2002 at the tender age of 17 while he was still a form four student at Moeding College. The player has been coloured with various individual awards and has hyped his Club to win the 2005-2006 Mascom Premier League.
As an energetic teenage player, Pius played for the Under 17, Under 20 and Under 23 National teams, gathering international caps under his belt. Gama, as he was affectionately known in the sporting fraternity, plied his trade for many seasons under different coaches, a true definition of adaptation and survival of the fittest.
The legendary and iconic Gama recently completed his BFA C Coaching License, adding to his Diploma in Sports Management, the qualifications that will become handy as he embarks on a new chapter as a member of the Jungle Kings Technical Team.
The outgoing skipper is considered to be one of the most disciplined, humble and honest players, with the ability to nurture other players to reach their great potential.
Talking of his experiences, the man of the moment, Betsho, highlighted that his journey was not easy, but that it was through his perseverance that he conquered. He thanked his family, supporters and the team’s management for their support and trust in his ability.
Gama was honoured with a framed Police XI Jersey No. 12 bearing his name, a trophy and a cheque as a token of appreciation for the 21 years he has served as the Jungle Kings player.