Ankole Zone Girls Football Championship kicks off with strict screening measures

The battle for six coveted slots to represent Ankole Zone at this year’s Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) national girls’ football championship began today at Bushenyi Core PTC grounds.

Over 64 teams, having qualified from the zone’s 13 districts, gathered at the venue for the tournament, which runs until Sunday.

This year’s competition introduced stringent eligibility checks, with all athletes undergoing mandatory screening to verify their Education Management Information System (EMIS) and USSSA registration records.

Athletes arrive at Bushenyi Core PTC ahead of USSSA Ankole Zone girls football competitions

“We’ve implemented a computerized verification system with sufficient staff to eliminate ineligible players before matches begin,” said Ankole Zone chairman Egidio Mucunguzi.

“Past tournaments saw numerous petitions due to lax screening, but this time, we’re addressing the issue proactively.”

Athletes arrive at Bushenyi Core PTC ahead of USSSA Ankole Zone girls football competitions

Geoffrey Langa, USSSA’s representative overseeing the championship, praised the zone’s organization and turnout. “The participation is impressive—all qualified teams are present, and the athletes appear age-appropriate. USSSA is committed to eradicating ineligibility, and Ankole Zone is setting a strong example,” Langa remarked.

Defending champions Boni Consilii enter as the team to beat, with rivals determined to dethrone them and secure a place in the national championship. The tournament promises fierce competition as schools vie for glory and a shot at the national stage.