Kakira Rugby Club’s inaugural schools tournaments produced success

Jinja | The tournament highlighted the passion and talent of the community’s young rugby players. 

The tournament, which featured an exciting display of athleticism and sportsmanship, brought together primary and secondary schools in a celebration of rugby excellence.

The tournament included three categories: primary, ladies, and secondary.

The Primary Schools category featured eight primary schools competing fiercely for the cup, with St. John emerging as the eventual champion.

Kakira High School won the ladies’ category. It outperformed three other schools in a highly competitive category.

The Senior Boys category was very closely contested until the final. Kakira High School won the cup over St John’s Wakitaka, demonstrating their ability and determination on the pitch.

For many schools, this tournament was their first foray into competitive rugby, highlighting the spirit of courage and determination among first-time players on the pitch.

“The enthusiastic support from fans added to the sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship that defined the day’s events,” Kakira Rugby Club said in a statement.

Over the past few weeks, coaches connected to Kakira Rugby Club have been working with 25 schools and their teachers, conducting coaching sessions and introducing these young students to the basics of rugby, the Club stated.

The culmination of the effort at the tournament was a positive experience for all. Amidst the excitement of the tournament, Kakira Rugby Club ensured the well-being of all participants by providing lunch for players, referees, and support staff.

The event’s inclusive nature encouraged attendees to feel a sense of unity and camaraderie, adding to the tournament’s community spirit.

“Jibu water kindly supported and sponsored the event providing water for the participants and without their support this event wouldn’t have been possible. We owe a great deal of gratitude to them for believing in this venture.

“Support from the Uganda Rugby Union has also been immensely important through offering and match officials and equipment (balls) to the schools so that they can continue to develop their rugby offerings going forward.”

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According to Kakira, the event also served as the official launch of the local club. “Kakira Rugby Club has launched and this tournament secures a sustainable source for our player base and will soon be fielding teams at senior, ladies and age grade level for the Eastern Uganda Rugby 7’s and the 15’s.”

The day ended with the presentation ceremony, presided over by upcountry representatives from the Uganda Rugby Union, Jibu Water, Kakira Rugby Club, and Jinja Media.

The Kakira Rugby Club’s inaugural Schools Rugby Tournament demonstrated not only sporting prowess, but also the power of community collaboration and support.

There was a record attendance of Kakira supporters, which the organisers say will help them build a formidable community fan base for the club.