______________________

In the realm of local football, where dreams are nurtured on the pitch and the roar of the supporters becomes the anthem of triumph, Mbale city’s legendary football club, Mbale Heroes, stands on the brink of an extraordinary achievement: Promotion!

With every heartbeat of the game, the passion of its executive member, Don Wanyama, who doubles as Vision Group Chief Executive Officer, resonates propelling the team towards the pinnacle of success.

In recent years, Wanyama has been one of the driving forces behind Mbale Heroes’s ascent through the ranks, tirelessly steering the club towards its ultimate goal – a long-awaited return to Uganda’s elite football: UPL.

Speaking after their most recent game against Kyetume FC which ended in victory at home (Mbale Municipal Stadium) on Sunday 19, Wanyama relished their promotion changes from the Big League to the Uganda Premier League.

Get all three points

Thanks to the lone goal volleyed in by Daniel Shabena on the stroke of halftime, Wanyama’s Heroes now need only two points to sail through to the Promised Land.

“Our next game is Onduparaka here at home on Sunday [May 26] and we will aim to get all the three points to seal our qualification,” an excited Wanyama said.

Wanyama continued: “The last game should get us playing like hell because they either make or break us and I know the boys know how important this phase of the season is to the club.”

Overall, Mbale Heroes have had a powerful run which started strongly under seasoned coach Asaph Mwebaze who was most recently succeeded by Simon Dunga alias Dunga.

"It's a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved," Wanyama remarked, his eyes gleaming with pride: "From the players who've given their all on the pitch to the coaching staff and the fans whose unwavering support fuels our journey, this is a momentous occasion for all of us. The aim is to return to the FUFA UPL by all means".

Wanyama urged everyone associated with the third-placed Mbale Heroes to remain steadfast in the club’s vision, instilling a culture of resilience and determination within the team.

To motivate the squad to be able to grind positive results out of the remaining games, Wanyama and fellow club executive member, Paul Wanyoto, a renowned lawyer, are rewarding players with $300 (about shillings one million) for each goal scored in their remaining matches.  

As the final whistle of the season approaches, anticipation hangs thick in the air. With each victory, Mbale Heroes edges closer to the coveted promotion spot, each goal a testament to the collective spirit that defines the club.

Mbale Heroes fans watching their game on Sunday. (Photo By Javier Silas Omagor)

"It's more than just a game; it's a reflection of our community, our values, and our unwavering belief in the power of teamwork," Wanyama remarked, his voice tinged with emotion. "Whatever the outcome, we'll hold our heads high, knowing that we've given it our all."

As Mbale Heroes prepares to embark on the final leg of their journey, the leadership's vision serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a brighter future.

For the executive and players, the dream of promotion is tantalizingly close, a testament to the indomitable spirit of football and the boundless possibilities it offers.

Now, as the season draws to a climactic close, the fruits of their labor are within reach, sending waves of excitement through the club's loyal fanbase.