The FUFA TV Cup has made a grand return, captivating the hearts of soccer enthusiasts across Uganda. This year’s tournament promises to be more exciting, with 65 schools from different regions participating. The competition aims to unearth new talent and provide a platform for young players to showcase their skills.
Expansion and Participation
After the success of the inaugural edition, which featured eight schools, the FUFA TV Cup has expanded significantly. Apollo Ahimbisibwe, FUFA executive committee member and chairperson of the organizing committee, highlighted the overwhelming interest from schools nationwide. This expansion reflects the tournament’s growing popularity and its importance in developing youth soccer.
Tournament Structure
The 65 participating schools are divided into 12 chapters based on their location and provinces. This format ensures that travel costs are minimized, allowing schools to participate without financial strain. Matches will be played on a home and away basis, fostering community support and engagement.
Group Stages and Key Dates
The competition kicked off with a preliminary round between Nganwa and St. Kagwa High Schools. The winner will join the remaining schools in the round of 64, scheduled for June 29-30. Subsequent rounds include the round of 32 on July 6 and 20, and the round of 16 on July 27-28 and August 3-4. The top eight teams will compete at the FUFA Technical Centre in Njeru for the final stages.
Promoting Fair Play and Talent Development
To ensure fairness, traditional schools participating in the Uganda Secondary School Sports Association (USSSA) nationals can only use three players from their USSSA squads. This rule aims to balance competition and focus on developing new talent. Additionally, FUFA plans to nurture referees, media officers, and coaches by involving trained instructors.
The Bigger Picture
FUFA’s deputy CEO, Decolas Kiiza, emphasized the tournament’s role in FUFA’s Technical Master Plan. By organizing such events, FUFA aims to create a robust soccer development pathway, benefiting not only players but also officials and coaches.
In conclusion , the FUFA TV Cup 2024 is set to be a landmark event in Uganda’s soccer calendar. With its expanded format and focus on talent development, the tournament promises to be a thrilling and transformative experience for young soccer players across the nation. Stay tuned for exciting matches and emerging talents as the competition unfolds.
