Kimaanya receives special invitation to National Football Championship
The decision comes after the Masaka-based school missed out on qualification during the zonal playoffs due to the absence of four key players, who were representing Uganda at the U17 AFCON in Morocco.
Kimaanya (red) lost 2-0 to St Mary's Kitende (blue) in the quarterfinals of the USSSA boys football championship in Masaka last year. PHOTO: Aloysius Byamukama
Aloysius Byamukama
Journalist @New Vision
The Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) has granted Blessed Sacrament Kimaanya a special invitation to this year’s national boys' football championship, set to begin on May 4 at Ngora High School.
The decision comes after the Masaka-based school missed out on qualification during the zonal playoffs due to the absence of four key players, who were representing Uganda at the U17 AFCON in Morocco.
In a letter signed by USSSA CEO Chris Mugisha, the association acknowledged Kimaanya’s exceptional talent and the circumstances that hindered their qualification. "Your school’s consideration is based on the outstanding performance and contribution of your players, four of whom were on national duty during the zonal qualifiers. We recognize this as a significant factor and are pleased to offer you this opportunity," the letter stated.
Upon receiving the news, school headteacher Rev. Fr. Ngonge Nswa Kizito expressed gratitude, saying, "We are thrilled by USSSA’s decision. The entire school community, especially the players, is excited and ready to compete at the national level."
The four players—striker James Bogere (two-goal hero against The Gambia), defender Elvis Toorach, and midfielders Isma Magara (2024 USSSA Masaka MVP) and Hamza Ssengooba—played pivotal roles in Uganda’s historic qualification for the FIFA U17 World Cup.
Despite their absence during the zonal qualifiers, Kimaanya’s previous performances, including a strong run in last year’s championship before falling to St. Mary’s Kitende in the quarterfinals, solidified their reputation as a competitive side. With this special invitation, Masaka Zone will now be represented by four teams at the national finals.
Games teacher James Kibira shared his excitement, emphasizing the team’s readiness to make an impact. "This is a great opportunity, and we are determined to perform even better than last year," he said.
The championship promises to be a thrilling showcase of talent, with Kimaanya eager to prove their worth on the national stage.