By USSSA
The Bukedi Zonal Qualifiers convened in Pallisa, one of the pivotal districts among the seven constituting Bukedi. Tororo, Pallisa, Busia, Budaka, Kibuku, and Butebo showcased their premier teams in a bid for glory.
On the inaugural day, the Chairperson of Bukedi Zone USSSA Mr Enyanda Dominic Maloba emphasized the need for a fair competition, cautioning against result manipulation and migration from Teso Zone. Screenings concluded at 6 pm, with no nocturnal sessions permitted. Original documentation was mandated, fostering an atmosphere of equitable play amongst participants, setting the stage for the subsequent events, including a procession through Pallisa town to Busitema University, the official launch venue.
Day two witnessed a surge of excitement with 27 boys’ teams and 24 girls’ teams vying for the coveted prize. Former Powerhouses like St. Peters College Tororo and Manjasi surged into the tournament as wild cards, juxtaposing themselves against lesser-known schools in the region who actually gave them a run for their money. Drawings were held to determine match-ups for the teams advancing to the round of 16.
Day three unraveled with captivating clashes as teams battled fiercely for progression. Notable encounters included Apopong Seed Secondary School edging out Ezra Memorial and Alliance High School triumphing over Luma Eastern College. Turmoil ensued with a Tororo Progressive Academy’s petition against St. Paul, ultimately leading to their qualification for the Quarterfinals.
Day four, the climax of the tournament, brimmed with anticipation. In the Quarterfinals, Apopong Seed eliminated Busia SS, Tororo Progressive Academy triumphed over St. Peters College Tororo in a derby, High Light outshined Buhobe SS, and Alliance High School overcame Hill View.
In the girls’ category, St. Claire Girls of Budaka, Pallisa Progressive, St. Peters Amusala, and Asinge SS showcased their prowess, advancing to the semi-finals. Alliance and High Light secured their spots in the boys’ final, while St. Peters Amusala faced Asinge SS in the girls’ final.
The action-packed final day witnessed a spectacle as supporters flocked Kaucho Grounds in what could be perhaps the most watched Girls finals in the history of Bukedi USSSA.
St. Peters Amusala dominated emerged as the better side beating Asinge SS 4-0.
Meanwhile, almost a mile away at Busitema University grounds known to the locals as Kalaki, High Light SS emerged victorious in the boys’ category, with Alliance High School settling for second place and TOPA sealing off the third spot with a win over Apopong.
Bukedi will be proudly represented by High Light SS, Alliance High School, and TOPA in the boys’ category, alongside St. Peters Amusala and Asinge SS in the girls’ category.
The closing ceremony was honored by the presence of Madam Alwenyi, the guest of honor and USSSA EXCOM representative. She extended her gratitude to the Organizers, Mr. Maloba, his dedicated team, the chairperson of ASSHU, referees, games teachers, and the community of Pallisa. Encouraging the Bukedi representative schools, she emphasized the importance of striving even harder at the Nationals in Masaka and Luwero.