The USSSA capacity-building training for January is stirring excitement not only among teachers and students but also attracting local government leaders and institutional stakeholders. Notable figures, including Kiryandogo’s District Sports Officer and the Female Youth Councillor of Sironko District, are among those actively participating in this transformative initiative.
Netball refereeing participants taking on a some exams
Diverse Participation at Kibuli: Kibuli Secondary School in Kampala stands out as the epicenter, hosting a remarkable 251 participants, the highest attendance compared to the parallel sessions in Mbale and Gulu. The diverse group includes individuals eager to delve into various courses, such as football coaching and refereeing, netball coaching, volleyball coaching, media, first aid, and injury management.
Innovative Upgrade for First Participants: In a groundbreaking move, the Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) is embarking on upgrading the first participants who attended initial courses nationwide to a Level II in basketball, volleyball, netball umpiring, and football refereeing. This unprecedented initiative aims to deepen knowledge among learners and teachers, encouraging the practical application of studied skills.
Basketball refereeing class showing some foul signals of the game.
Free Residential Training Opportunity: Participants have been afforded a golden opportunity for free residential training, commencing on January 14th at Kibuli Secondary School. This immersive experience is tailored to enrich the educational journey of those seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of sports.
Anticipation for USSSA’s Elite Championship: As excitement builds for USSSA’s Elite championship, scheduled from January 24th to 27th, the most outstanding participants will be selected to officiate at the USSSA Elite Games 2024 in Jinja City.
Visionary Plans for the Future: Looking ahead, President Emeritus and USSSA Capacity Building Program Incharge, Mr. Patrick Okanya, shares his vision for the program. “By 2025, we want to be utilizing officials and coaches trained by USSSA under the capacity-building training. Moving forward, we shall introduce administration and management courses for teachers and students, cultivating future sports administrators.”
President Emeritus and USSSA Capacity Building Program Incharge, Mr. Patrick Okanya during field inspection with ministry of education officials.
Progressive Evolution Since USSSA Ball Games II 2023: This marks steady progress since the innovative trial during the USSSA Ball Games II 2023 in Kabale. Student media officers successfully officiated most of the games, underscoring the efficacy of this forward-thinking approach.
Voices from the Participants: Participants, like Ndoli David, the Sports Officer of Kiryandogo District, express gratitude for the invaluable first aid and injury management training. Ndoli emphasizes its practical importance in addressing injuries during competitions, enriching the capabilities of the contingent.
Ndoli David, the Sports Officer of Kiryandogo District
Brenda Ninsiima, training in the same course, shares her passion for attending first aid and injury management sessions. She aspires to use her training to treat athletes facing challenges on the pitch, transforming her dream of contributing to sports medicine into a tangible reality.
Ninsima Brenda during one of the first aid classes
Recognition and Certification: Upon completion of the training, participants will receive certificates of attendance from the Association and certificates of merit from the respective federations. This formal recognition certifies them as qualified officials, marking a crucial step in their journey toward contributing to the world of sports.
Dr. Isaac Gabriel Otuk handover first aid and injury management certificates to USSSA secretariet staff.
The USSSA capacity-building program at Kibuli not only fosters skill development but also represents a beacon of innovation and inclusivity, shaping a promising future for sports enthusiasts and professionals alike.
