Mentor Secondary School games teacher, Sam Oluka, is confident that his side has all the ability to win the national boys' football trophy come May 10–19, 2026.
The Lira city-based school recently cemented its dynasty during the USSSA Lango zone football championship by beating Trinity College Abilonino 1–0 in the final contest held at Ngai SS grounds in Oyam District.
"Last year in Ngora High School, our team was eliminated in the semifinals. But this time around, our boys are the district champions as well as the zonal champions without conceding a single goal during the tournament. Based on that, we are ready to win the national trophy and qualify for the FEASSSA games," said Oluka.
According to Oluka, following last year's poor national performance, the school is preparing for a strong comeback.
"Despite losing several key players who completed their studies last year, the school team remains positive and ready to crush any team that stands in our way come May 9," he added.
In a related development, Deng Garang, Mentor SS boys' football team captain, believes the school has assembled a strong team capable of lifting the boys' overall trophy at the national level.
"After last year's shocking 1–0 semifinal defeat against Jinja Progressive School, this time the boys are more focused than ever. Our rivals will see a stronger and more determined team," Garang warned.
Mentor SS has been drawn in Group H alongside Hilton High School, Mbarara Army Boarding, Lotuke SS, and Nkoma SS. The team has identified Nkoma SS as a key contender but expressed confidence in its chances.
The USSSA national boys' football competition will be hosted at Lira Town College, with over 64 schools from across the country competing in the U-20 boys' football category.