USSSA gets tough on fielding non bonafide players during qualifiers, Games teachers warned

By Emmanuel Sekago

The Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) has issued a stern warning to games teachers regarding the fielding of non-bonafide players during qualifiers.

In a bid to uphold the integrity and fairness of competitions, USSSA is cracking down on any attempts to circumvent regulations by fielding ineligible players.

The USSSA Zone chairpersons and secretaries planning meeting held on Thursday, February 15th 2024 at USSSA headquarters the following were resolved;

All district qualifiers should not exceed March 24th 2024, All games with albums generated by USSSA upon online registration, No Ball Games Two should be played in term-one or else it will be a friendly game, Most of the tournaments should be officiated by capacity building referees so all district secretaries should embrace that and Any games teacher or Headteacher who fills in non bonafide player shall be liable not the student.

The warning comes as USSSA emphasizes the importance of adhering to eligibility criteria and ensuring that only bonafide students represent their schools in competitions.

Non-compliance with these regulations not only undermines the spirit of fair play but also jeopardizes the integrity of USSSA-sanctioned events.

Games teachers play a pivotal role in shaping the sporting culture within their schools and are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the highest standards of ethics and sportsmanship. USSSA’s warning serves as a reminder of their obligation to promote fairness, transparency, and respect for the rules among their students.

The consequences of fielding non-bonafide players during qualifiers can be severe, ranging from disciplinary sanctions against individual players to potential disqualification of entire teams from participating in USSSA events.

USSSA is committed to enforcing strict penalties to deter any attempts to gain unfair advantages through illicit means.

As schools prepare for qualifiers, USSSA urges games teachers to exercise diligence and due diligence in verifying the eligibility of their players.

By adhering to the rules and regulations set forth by USSSA, games teachers can uphold the integrity of the competitions and ensure a level playing field for all participating schools.

Meanwhile, USSSA’s firm stance against the fielding of non-bonafide players underscores its commitment to promoting integrity, sportsmanship, and excellence in secondary school sports.

As custodians of Uganda’s sporting future, USSSA and games teachers alike share a collective responsibility to nurture a culture of fair play and respect for the spirit of competition among student-athletes across the country.