Ayerango vows to keep improving after guiding Rines to historic national glory

USSSA U20 Girls Football Championship Final

Rines SS 3 Boni Consilii SS 0

Uganda teens forward Justine Ayerango says she is determined to keep improving after guiding Rines Secondary School to their first-ever Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) U20 Girls' Football Championship title.

The forward was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player after scoring in Friday's 3-0 victory over Boni Consilii Secondary School at Kabaka Kyabaggu Stadium in Wakiso.

Ayerango, who was part of the Uganda U17 team that won the CECAFA Girls' Championship last month, said the national team experience has given her confidence to perform at school level.

"Winning this award means a lot to me because it reflects the hard work of the entire team. I thank my coaches and teammates for believing in me. This success motivates me to work even harder," Ayerango said.

She believes representing Uganda has played a key role in her development as a player.

"Playing for the national team has improved my confidence, discipline and understanding of the game. Every camp teaches me something new, and I always return to my school determined to become a better player," she added.

Rines took the lead just before halftime when Patricia Nakato Nanyanzi converted a penalty after Ayerango was fouled inside the box.

Five minutes into the second half, Zuena Nandegho set up Trina Nakawuki to double the lead before Ayerango sealed the victory six minutes later after capitalising on a goalkeeping mistake.

Before reaching the final, Rines eliminated Amus College School 3-0 on penalties after a goalless semi-final, while Boni Consilii edged defending champions St Noa Girls School 3-2 in a penalty shootout following a 2-2 draw.

The championship was postponed earlier this year to allow several players, including Ayerango, to represent Uganda in the CAF U17 and U20 competitions.

Ayerango said the team's focus has now shifted to the FEASSA Games in Tanzania.

"We are happy to be national champions, but we are not stopping here. We want to represent Uganda well at the FEASSA Games and continue making our school and country proud," she said.

Rines Secondary School, Boni Consilii Secondary School, St Noa Girls School and Amus College School will represent Uganda at the FEASSA Games scheduled for August in Morogoro, Tanzania.