Bukedea Comprehensive eyes title defence at Aporu Okol Volleyball tournament
Bukedea Comprehensive School (BCS), which won double trophies in the boys' and girls' secondary school categories, is enthusiastic about defending its titles.
Secondary schools battling for accolades during last years tournament
As the countdown for the 2026 Dr. Aporu Okol International Volleyball Tournament ticks on, anticipation is building as clubs, universities, corporate teams, secondary schools, and primary schools gear up for the championship.
Bukedea Comprehensive School (BCS), which won double trophies in the boys' and girls' secondary school categories, is enthusiastic about defending its titles. The competition will take place from June 12 to 14 at Kumi Boma Ground in Kumi Municipality.
Steven Waiswa Adone, head volleyball coach, believes that previous success puts BCS in a strong position to retain the titles.
Adone, whose coaching career includes stints at Seroma Christian High School, Gayaza High School, and the Parliament of Uganda ladies' team, has extensive experience winning volleyball titles.
"With the supportive hand given to volleyball as a sport by the director in charge of sports project, Fred Katende Malibu, and the financial support from the school director Annet Anita Among, everything is flowing well," said Adone.
During the 31st edition of the Aporu tournament, Mary McAleese and Ngora Township won the primary school trophies for boys and girls, respectively.
Cobra Volleyball Club from South Sudan are the senior men's reigning champions for the first time after thrashing Nemo Stars two sets straight in the finals.
Cobra's coach, David Math Mathiang, believes that with preparations in place, the club is in a strong position to retain the trophy for the second year running.
"Our goal is to defend the title. I know it will not be an easy task for the team, but we shall do whatever it takes to take the trophy again," said Mathiang.
Joseph Opio, chairperson of the local organizing committee, said 78 teams have so far confirmed their participation.
"We expect the number of teams taking part in this year's championship to double last year's, where we recorded only 65 teams. With the number confirmed so far, the total will go far beyond last year," said Opio.
The patron of the Uganda Volleyball Federation (UVF), Christine Hellen Amongin Aporu, urged the government and all stakeholders to make the Dr. Aporu Okol event a developmental activity.
George Aporu, general secretary of the Uganda Volleyball Federation and a son of Dr. Okol, said the annual tournament serves as a testament to the unity and strength his father inspired. "It is not just a sporting event but a celebration of the enduring spirit of togetherness."
The tournament features top volleyball teams from across the region, reflecting Dr. Okol's dedication to unity and sportsmanship. This year's event is particularly special, marking three decades of honoring his legacy through this beloved sport.