Buddo Senior Secondary School has been crowned the 2025 national boys' football champions after beating rivals St Mary’s Kitende 6-5 in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) games final in Ngora District.
The pulsating clash, which ended goalless in normal time, capped off a week-long showcase of school sports hosted at Ngora High School and Bukedea Comprehensive School.
The victory sparked jubilant scenes from Buddo supporters, as their team overcame one of Uganda’s most formidable football schools in a closely contested showdown.
The two sides, both seasoned finalists, displayed grit and tactical discipline, but it was Buddo who held their nerve from the spot to seal the title.
Bukedea Comprehensive, one of the hosts, impressed across multiple disciplines and finished third in the overall standings, earning praise for both performance and hospitality.
The tournament, which ran from May 7, culminated in a vibrant closing ceremony attended by the State Minister for Sports, Peter Ogwang.
Addressing players, coaches, and fans, Ogwang hailed the competition for reflecting the country’s growing sports culture.
“We have witnessed not only talent but also the strong spirit of teamwork and discipline from our young athletes,” Ogwang said.
“This tournament has showcased the bright future of Ugandan sports.”
But the minister also used the occasion to call out indiscipline during the games. Without naming specific schools, he condemned acts of hooliganism and lashed out at institutions accused of sponsoring violence against officials.
“Any school that used its funds to attempt to attack a referee must be held accountable,” Ogwang said firmly.
“Such actions cannot be tolerated, and the culprits must be banned from future participation. Across the world, referees are respected regardless of mistakes. Uganda will be no different.”
In a nod to government’s continued support for school sports, Ogwang announced that Ato C Secondary School had been taken over for grant aiding.
He further revealed that the Mora Gold Tournament—another key youth competition—will be incorporated into the national budget beginning July 1.
The minister also applauded local leaders, particularly area MP Odo, for their efforts in promoting sports in the region.
He pledged government support for infrastructure upgrades in Mora District, including roadworks and sports grounds, to facilitate future hosting of major events.
The 2025 USSSA games drew praise for smooth organisation, record participation, and intense competition across age categories.
From under-16 to under-20 divisions, schools from all corners of Uganda showcased their finest talents, raising hopes for international success.
Ogwang singled out recent national progress in football development, particularly the fight against age cheating.
“I’m happy that age cheating is becoming history. Our fight is paying off—Uganda has now qualified for the under-17 World Cup for the first time ever,” he said, drawing loud applause.
He closed by urging continued collaboration among schools, communities, and stakeholders in growing Uganda’s sports potential.
“Let us continue to nurture talent, promote physical education, and build systems that ensure sustainable sports development,” he said.
With Buddo SS lifting the coveted trophy and the spotlight firmly on the power of school sports to unite and inspire, the 2025 USSSA games will be remembered as a milestone in the journey toward a more vibrant sporting future for Uganda.