End of an era as Katende exits FEASSA Games

Vienna College Namugongo student Eric Katende has retired as captain of Team Uganda Aquatics for the FEASSA Games.

Katende, who has captained the team for the last four years, confirmed that this year's edition in Morogoro, Tanzania, was his last, saying he will not be eligible for the 2027 Games in Rwanda due to the age limit.

Speaking to Vision Sport after his last race, Katende said, "I want to thank everyone for being part of this year's Federation of East Africa Secondary Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) Games. This has been my last year in this competition. It has been a good stay with you. I want to say goodbye to the FEASSA Games. I will be looking at it at a different level."

During his captaincy, Katende won several medals for the country, with his personal highlight being a personal best of 1 minute 2 seconds in the 100m butterfly, recorded this year in Morogoro.

He noted that despite stepping down from the school competition, he will continue his swimming career at senior level.

Katende thanked the Government of Uganda, Uganda Aquatics, and his parents for the support accorded to him throughout his career.

Team Uganda Aquatics coach Eric Kisero applauded Katende for his leadership during the FEASSA Games in Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania.

"Today we are sending off Katende from these FEASSA Games because he will not be eligible due to his age, but he will advance to the next level of his career," Kisero said.

Kisero added that Uganda has defended the swimming title for the last four years and that Katende's presence will be missed.

However, teammate Jane Nakirya said Katende's retirement will affect Uganda's performance.

"Yes, we shall remain as Team Uganda at the FEASSA Games, but on the other hand, we shall be affected because we know how Katende used to unite us," she said.