KHC and Wananchi HDF claim inaugural Rockets Open titles

The Uganda Hockey Federation (UHF) 2026 calendar burst into life over the weekend with a thrilling edition of the newly launched Rockets Sports Club Hockey Open at the Lugogo Hockey Stadium.

The two-day tournament served as an ideal season opener, drawing ten men's teams and five women's sides in a competitive showcase that delivered drama, tension, and high-quality action.

When the final whistles blew, it was Kampala Hockey Club (KHC) celebrating glory in the men's category, while Wananchi HDF emerged victorious in a tightly contested women's final.

The women's competition adopted a round-robin format, with the top two teams advancing to a winner-takes-all final. After a series of competitive fixtures, it was Wananchi HDF and Kampala Swans who rose to the top, setting the stage for a compelling decider.

Kampala Swans players celebrate their victory at the 2026 Rockets Open at Lugogo on February 15, 2026, after edging Wananchi 5-4 in a shootout. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka

In a match defined by defensive resilience and tactical discipline, the deadlock remained unbroken for much of the contest. However, with the clock winding down and a penalty shootout looming, Wananchi HDF produced a moment of clinical precision, striking in the dying minutes to snatch a 1-0 victory and the inaugural title.

For HDF captain Jackline Giramiya, the win was more than just silverware, it was a statement of intent. "We beat them twice as we won the national league last season," Giramiya reflected. "They are a very strong side, and the win today is a good start because we have identified their strengths as we prepare for the 2026 national league."

The men's final provided a fittingly dramatic conclusion to the weekend's action, pitting Kampala Stallions against Wananchi in a clash that had everything except goals in regulation time. After a goalless 60 minutes, the title was destined to be decided from the penalty spot.

However, the journey to the shootout was far from straightforward. In scenes briefly reminiscent of the 2025 AFCON final in Morocco, where Senegal's Pape Thiaw withdrew his players in protest over a refereeing decision before returning to claim victory, the final at Lugogo witnessed its own moment of high tension.

Stallions coach Marktum Muziransa made the bold decision to call his players off the pitch in disagreement with a yellow card issued to his team for delaying the start of the final. Muziransa was adamant that he was merely delivering last-minute tactical instructions. After a five-minute discussion between team officials and match referees, the caution was withdrawn, the players returned to the field, and the match proceeded.

The disruption did little to unsettle the Stallions, who held their nerve in the subsequent shootout to edge Wananchi 5-4 and clinch the title.

For KHC captain Michael Mpima, whose side lifted the trophy, the tournament provided invaluable preparation for the challenges ahead. "We have tested them ahead of the Carabao Cup next month," Mpima explained. "They beat us in the national league and Uganda Cup, where we finished second in both. The Carabao Cup will serve as the league opener, and this tournament has helped us assess our squad ahead of the season."

Olive Namazzi, Social Services Executive Secretary at KCCA, capped off the successful weekend by presenting the trophies to the victorious teams.

Beyond the on-pitch action, the tournament itself was a significant achievement for the hosts. UHF General Secretary Stanley Tamale commended Rockets Sporting Club for their initiative in organizing the open, viewing it as a positive sign of growth within the hockey community.

"That shows growth in a club in terms of organization and attracting sponsors," Tamale observed. He noted that approximately five years ago, before the federation resumed structured league competitions, such club-organized tournaments played a pivotal role in sustaining and promoting hockey across the country. With limited space on the current UHF calendar, a club successfully hosting an open tournament is now particularly commendable.

Looking ahead, Tamale confirmed that the hockey calendar shows no signs of slowing. Key February highlights include the closure of the 2026 transfer window on February 25, followed by the Kampala Hockey Club Festival scheduled for February 28.

The Rockets Open has set a high standard for the season to come. With rivalries renewed, squads assessed, and silverware already distributed, the 2026 campaign is officially underway.