Sundays in Kampala are generally chilled, offering a far more laid-back atmosphere compared to the bustle of weekdays. For most people, it is a time to unwind from the week’s hustle and refocus on faith, family, and leisure activities across the city.
On select Sundays, a visit to the IUEA Sports Ground in Kansanga, a lively Kampala suburb, introduces one to the SMACK League.
This bi-weekly outing, often themed and hosted by different cohorts, offers a mix of activities ranging from football to live entertainment. At some point, the venue, home to the Mwiri League, hosted a Guinness Matchday on Tour experience.
Old Boys Leagues, powered by Guinness, have existed for years, with some boasting around a decade of history. These leagues have been centred on alumni of traditional schools across the country.
However, in 2024, the International School Alumni, I.S.A., League was introduced and quickly took social media by storm. It injected fresh energy into the scene by resonating with some of the city’s “cool kids.”
Other notable Old Boys Leagues include the Ngo League, Chaapa League, SHACK League, and KISOBA League. But beyond the whistle, these leagues have become important spaces for old boys, stretching far beyond the final score.
A true networking hub
Traditionally, old boys’ linkups were limited to annual or termly reunions at school or specific venues. Alumni associations existed to keep them connected, but these gatherings often struggled to unite different cohorts because yearly meetings were not enough to build lasting connections. Many alumni preferred to stay in touch only with classmates they knew well rather than with the wider alumni body.
With school leagues open to anyone and offering far more enticing and fun experiences, different cohorts, cutting across more than 40 years, have been able to come together regularly on matchdays. These events have become the biggest networking platform for old boys.
Where the party comes alive
When matchday flyers are released, one of the most anticipated aspects is the entertainment lineup. Old Boys League matchdays have grown into full-blown experiences, running from early afternoon well into the night. During match time, Guinness flows freely as revelers enjoy lively sets from some of the best DJs and bands in town.
As the sun sets, the party is elevated to new heights with live performances. Artists such as Navio, Karole Kasita, Cindy, Azawi, T-Paul, Kapeke, Ava Peace, Kenneth Mugabi, Quex Music, and many others have performed at various leagues. Some people attend these games purely for the party, and in doing so, the leagues have become a fun alternative to Sunday brunches and other weekend plots.
Business opportunities
The backdrops at Old Boys League press conferences are often filled with logos of various companies, from large corporates to startups. Some of these businesses are run by old boys and provide services such as catering, photography, and event management to support matchdays and related activities. In doing so, they not only give back to the alumni community but also grow their ventures, gaining more opportunities within the same alumni circles.
Giving back beyond the pitch
Beyond football and the party, the Old Boys have gone out of their way to support their schools and wider communities in meaningful ways. Many leagues have organised drives to support different causes, from fundraising for school facilities to community service projects that uplift those around them. In addition, financial literacy initiatives have been championed through league partners.
Pride and passion
Away from the fun and social buzz, winning games and lifting titles brings cohorts a lasting sense of pride. Victories in regular season matches, playoff derbies, or overall season triumphs earn bragging rights. Being crowned champions, such as when Kabojja Warriors lifted the ISA League title at the Season Two awards night last September, turns hard-fought effort into moments of celebration that linger well beyond the pitch.
Current status
Some Guinness Old Boys Leagues are currently active, namely the SMACK League, Mwiri League, and SHACK League. The Ngo League, Chaapa League, ISA League, and KISOBA League are in their off-seasons but are expected to return soon
