The FUFA Tv Cup Showdown 16 has arrived. Out of 54 registered schools, the tournament has now narrowed to 16 who will battle for glory in Gulu at St. Joseph’s College Layibi from 1st to 9th September 2025.
Speaking before the draw, the chairperson of the organising committee, Dr Apolo Ahimbisibwe, highlighted the importance of the competition. ‘This competition is about bringing football into academic institutions,’ he said. ‘Many parents stop their children from playing because they think it interferes with studies, yet we have players who excel in class and also earn government sponsorship at university.’
He stressed the connection between education and sport. ‘Excellent students in class can become excellent players because football also involves the use of the brain,’ he remarked. Alumni from various schools have also been active followers of the competition which continues to grow each year.
This year the final phase has expanded from eight to sixteen teams. ‘We wanted to give more schools the chance to play at this stage’ Dr Ahimbisibwe explained. Teams that fall short of qualification will still compete in classification matches, ensuring everyone gets more playing time.
Explaining the choice of venue, Dr Ahimbisibwe revealed why St. Joseph’s College Layibi was selected. ‘It has one of the best grounds in the country. We also looked at infrastructure, accommodation and logistics to make the finals memorable for the participants,’ he said. He added that future editions may move across the FUFA football regions. ‘We want to spread the competition across the country. Probably next time it will be in Western Uganda or another region.’
He also pointed out the role of the fans. ‘These matches will be open to supporters, and in that way we have more people watching the competition.’
Group Draws
- Group A: St. Joseph’s College Layibi, Kako SSS, Muntuyera High School, St. Charles Lwanga Kasasa
- Group B: Nabumali High School, Mpanga SSS, Duhaga SS, Jinja College
- Group C: St. Mary’s College Kisubi, Dr. Obote College Boroboro, Ngora High School, Mengo Senior School
- Group D: Jinja SSS, St. Charles Lwanga College Koboko, Mbale SS, Kibuli SS
