Bukedea Comprehensive School starts FEASSSA Games with win

There was excitement at Bukedea Sports Complex as Bukedea fans praised Bukedea Comprehensive (Ug) school for beating Benjamin Mpaka SS of Tanzania 2-0.

The two first-half goals from Reagan Ssekisambu and Yusuf Ssebumpenje inspired Ronald Ssali’s Bukedea Comprehensive School coached side to the much-needed victory.

Ssekisambu tapped home from close range as early as the 6th minute past goalkeeper Haji Abdala Abdala before Ssebumpenje’s second at the apex of the opening stanza on a bumpy grassy ground.

Bukedea Comprehensive School players celebrating after scoring in the opening match

“We are excited and fully prepared for this moment. The boys have worked hard, and we understand the importance of this game since it’s our second time competing in the FEASSSA Games. Benjamin Mpaka Secondary School is a strong team, but we managed to pass through their midfield to beat them and we shall be looking at thrashing any team that comes across us.” said Ronald Ssali, Bukedea Comprehensive School coach.

“It’s always not easy to win, a competition like this one, but the consistency among players that made us do it.” 

According to Ssali, their aim is not only to host the championship, but they will be in a position to compete and win.

The Sports State Minister Peter Ogwang cautioned participants (officials and managers) against acts that will undermine the integrity of the tournament and to always be reminded that winning and losing are part of sports.

Bukedea Comprehensive School football players celebrate after scoring

“I wish to caution them (participants) against engaging in acts that will undermine the integrity of sports and competition that will hamper the flow of the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship. Let us celebrate the spirit of East Africa and the bright future of our young athletes,” Ogwang said.

He also revealed that the 21 editions of the FEASSSA Games hosted in Uganda for the 7th time have registered a total of 3,526 participants and young athletes from five (5) countries.

They include Uganda (1590 participants), Kenya (1300 participants), Rwanda (162 participants), Tanzania (443 participants) and Burundi (31 participants). South Sudan didn’t participate in this year’s edition.

“These athletes will be showcasing their potential talents while leveraging the integration process”, Ogwang said.

Ogwang on the other hand, commended the directors of BCS and Amus College for leading in matters of sports development in the country.

He reminded the President and participants that Uganda is on the right track as far as developing the sports infrastructure to facilitate the Africa Cup of Nations 2027 under the East African Pamoja bid.

The games to be played by both boys and girls include football, swimming, table tennis, soccer, badminton, basketball, handball, netball, rugby 15s and hockey.