Uganda Baseball5 preparations gather momentum

Uganda Baseball5 preparations have gathered momentum, with the Uganda Baseball and Softball Association (UBASA) gearing up to host the Eastern African Youth World Cup qualifiers scheduled for late June.

UBASA, in partnership with Afro-Unity Sports Foundation, conducted U18 national team trials at St Peter's SS Nsambya last Friday, attracting about 35 athletes. From the trials, 10 players were selected,  four girls and six boys with a final selection phase set for May 15.

Afro-Unity Sports Foundation founder Ibrahim Kaboggoza said the level of talent displayed during the trials was impressive.

"The level of talent is amazing, with steady progress, quick learning, and players showing strong aggression for competition," Kaboggoza said.

He added that the selection process focused on key attributes required at the highest level.

"We were looking at agility, game reading, strong arm, and speed, and players should expect tough competition in the final tryouts as everyone fights for a place on the national team," he noted.

Kaboggoza also revealed that Uganda is steadily preparing to host the regional event, with efforts underway to secure facilities and partnerships.

"Preparations are ongoing and we have established a good partnership with Haji Hamis Kigundu, who has offered a competition ground, while we continue to engage more sponsors to ensure smooth organisation," he said.

On Saturday, organisers held a key meeting involving regional stakeholders from Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, and Uganda to align on logistics and timelines.

"The meeting focused on team entries, documentation, timelines, and confirmation periods, and it was called by UBASA technical leadership to ensure proper coordination," Kaboggoza explained.

However, financial constraints remain a major challenge, with organisers still seeking support to successfully host the event.

"The biggest challenge is funding, especially with the financial year closing. We need about UGX 150 million to fully organise the qualifiers," he added.

Despite the challenges, Kaboggoza remains optimistic about Uganda's chances and the impact of the tournament.

"This tournament is very important for Uganda because it will raise the country's flag on the global stage and help develop talent, while also building capacity for officials and event organisation," he said.

Uganda will host teams from Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan in the five-day qualifiers scheduled from June 25 to 29. Officials are expected to arrive on June 25, with teams arriving on June 26, followed by matches on June 27 and 28, and the finals on June 29.

The tournament forms part of the continental qualification pathway, with two African teams set to qualify for the Baseball5 World Cup.

The venue is yet to be confirmed, with Lugogo Indoor Arena and Mpiji Complex among the options under consideration.