There is no shortcut to World Cup, local administrators told

By Norman Katende

German technical expert Gunter Lange has assured Ugandan soccer administrators that unless talent is built from the grassroots, there is no shortcut or miracles for Uganda to the World Cup.

Gunter, who is back in the country for a follow-up on kids sports programmes, said this at the third edition of the Primary School Ball Games that are taking place at Hoima’s Boma Grounds.

The event is scheduled to end on Wednesday.

Unlike other competitions, these games require that would-be participants first pass the basics of sports including endurance, dribbling, ball control, throw-ins, penalty shooting, passing, before their respective districts are allowed to compete.

“All the Germany World Cup winning team members underwent such a programme over a 10-year period and now the results can be seen,” said Gunter.

“This is the starting point for Uganda and what is remaining is a follow-up and you will receive better results.”
 

Kampala battles Arua in handball. PHOTO/Norman Katende
 

Wakiso Academy (in blue) proved too good in volleyball. PHOTO/Norman Katende

The former national technical expatriate, who is now with the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF), was in Hoima where he again trained a number of coaches and also officiated some matches.

The competition which is supported by a number of organisations including UNICEF and the German ambassador to Uganda has attracted 60 districts.

Participants are competing in the different games including handball, volleyball and football with athletics featuring under endurance.

Before the start of the activities, a number of sportsmen and school teachers underwent a basic training exercise which would enable them work with children in the future.