The Deputy Commissioner of Customs at NRA, Richard Hindolo Senesie, has applauded the National Senior Women’s Team (Female Patriots) for their exemplary performance at the just concluded ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Africa Division 2 Qualifier in Gaborone Botswana.
He expressed this sentiment during the Team’s visit to his Customs and Excise Department at Queen Elizabeth II Quay on Wednesday.
Speaking at the meeting, Team Manager of the Female Patriots David Nelson Williams thanked Commissioner Senesie for the warm reception. “When you opted to be a lifetime patron to the Female Patriots, we promised to bring smiles to your face. The runner-up trophy has made you proud,” he said.
Coach Sarah Johnson, Coordinator for the Senior Women side, introduced the team and gave background information on the performance of each player in the last Qualifier.
She informed him about the financial constraints they are going through and expressed the love the players have for the country and how they are determined to do well in the upcoming Namibia Tournament.
Receiving the guests, Commissioner Senessie described the accolade as a big deal. “You have been able to perform without government support. But this is how you are serving the nation,” he said, doffing his hat to the team and encouraging each player not to relent.
“Meeting with President Bio will change your situation. And I will not relent in supporting you in my own little way,” he told the cricketers, relating government’s cash constraints and how money generated goes to meet key priorities.
He spoke about leading efforts to find sponsors while applauding the strides of Team Manager Williams, who is devoted to knocking at doors for potential helpers.
“Patriotism is the biggest service,” he said, urging the players to remain united and refrain from all forms of politics.
He then donated two thousand dollars to the team as a thank-you gift.