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USSSA executive at the official opening of the games
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By Our Reporter
The Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anitah Among, has urged student athletes to uphold discipline and hard work if they are to achieve their career aspirations.
Her message was delivered by Commissioner of Parliament, Br. Augustine Mugabo, who represented her as the chief guest at the official opening of the USSSA Ball Games I at Bukedea Comprehensive Sports Park today.
“She has told me to tell you that she loves you all, and that she values discipline. She expects everyone here to be disciplined. She also values hard work, because without it, none of you would be here. These facilities would not exist if she had not prioritized Bukedea, her home district,” Mugabo relayed on her behalf.
Students match before the opening ceremony
Among also expressed her gratitude to the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for prioritizing sports, which brings together the youth—the majority of the country’s population.
“She has asked me to thank the President for prioritizing sports. As you are aware, the youth constitute the largest percentage of Uganda’s population. Sports provide employment opportunities for the youth, and by supporting it, the President is supporting the youth,” Mugabo added.
Students match before the opening ceremony
The event began with a procession of athletes through the streets of Bukedea before they entered the impressive Bukedea Comprehensive Sports Park, the venue of the games.
The hosting director, Jonas Gumisiriza, appreciated the Ministry of Education and Sports and USSSA for selecting Bukedea Comprehensive as the host school. He also offered all the school’s facilities, including the swimming pool, for athletes to use during their leisure time.
Mugabo kicks the ball to officially open the games
The Commissioner of Physical Education and Sports, Rev. Canon Duncans Mugumya, thanked USSSA for its efforts in fighting ineligibility in school sports. Meanwhile, USSSA President Justus Mugisha assured school heads and athletes that the fight against the use of mercenary players would continue.
The new look Bukedea Comprehensive Sports Park
Only a few games were played in the morning before the official opening match— a girls’ football game between the hosts, Bukedea Comprehensive, and Gulu High School, which the hosts won 2–0.
Resident director of Bukedea Comprehensive Jonas Gumisiriza (center) with Commissioner Rev Can Duncans Mugumya and USSSA president Justus Mugisha
The games have attracted 7,500 athletes competing in 11 disciplines: girls’ football, basketball, hockey, rugby 15s, tennis, table tennis, badminton, U16 netball, volleyball, handball, and boys' basketball. The tournament will continue tomorrow and conclude on Wednesday.
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