Anticipation builds for Boys’ Football at FEASSA Games as Uganda’s top schools prepare for action

By Emmanuel Sekago

Excitement is mounting as Uganda’s top school football teams gear up for the Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) games, scheduled for August 16th-27th in Bukedea District. With fierce competition expected, the stage is set for some thrilling football action as the representatives from Uganda prepare to showcase their skills.

This year’s games will see a number of firsts and significant moments. New Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) national boys’ football champions, St. Julian School is particularly eager to make a mark.

After years of trying and failing to qualify, this will be their debut at the FEASSA games. St. Julian’s entry has added an extra layer of intrigue, as they aim to prove themselves against more seasoned competitors.

In a surprising twist, Kibuli Secondary School, a dominant force in school football and the 2022 FEASSA champions, will not be competing this year. Kibuli’s absence opens the field for new contenders and adds a sense of unpredictability to the tournament.

Last year, they claimed the title in Arusha, Tanzania, with a 2-0 victory over Kenya’s Highway School in the finals, but their absence this year could signal a changing of the guard in East African school football.

St. Mary’s Kitende, another powerhouse in Ugandan school football, missed out on defending their USSSA-National boys’ football title in Masaka this year.

However, they are fully focused on defending their FEASSA title, which they won last year in Huye, Rwanda, by defeating Amus College School in a dramatic penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in the final. The team’s preparations have been intense, and they are determined not to leave anything to chance as they aim to retain their crown.

Amus College School, co-hosting the games with Bukedea Comprehensive School, is also a team to watch. Having finished as first runners-up at the USSSA-Boys football championship in Masaka and secured a silver medal at the ISF World Cup games in China, they are determined to leverage their experience and home advantage to secure their first FEASSA title. The school administration has emphasized a no-stone-unturned approach, underscoring their commitment to success.

Bukedea Comprehensive School, the main host for this year’s games, is also making its debut. Despite being newcomers to the FEASSA stage, they are not to be underestimated.

The team has been hard at work in preparation and is eager to capitalize on their home-ground advantage. Their participation adds another layer of excitement to the tournament, as they look to make a memorable impact in front of their home supporters.

In conversations with Wallnetnews, head coaches and fans expressed a mix of anticipation and optimism. Coaches highlighted their teams’ rigorous preparations and emphasized the importance of discipline and focus as they head into the games. Fans are hopeful that the Ugandan teams will showcase the country’s growing football prowess and bring home the title.

Meanwhile, The FEASSA games promise to be a thrilling showcase of young talent and competitive spirit. With several strong contenders and a mix of seasoned and debuting teams, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. As the games approach, all eyes will be on Bukedea District to see which team will emerge as the new champions of East African school football.