On a shiny, serene Sunday, the grounds of Legends Rugby Club transformed into a vibrant hub of excitement as BIFA ’16 (the Buddo 2016 cohort), in proud partnership with Jubilee Insurance, hosted an unforgettable matchday during the Budo League Season 8.
Blending football, music, games, banter, and brand engagement, the event themed “Jubilate with BIFA” offered something for everyone.
Whether you were a die-hard footballer, board game enthusiast, music lover or simply someone looking for good vibes, there was a piece of the magic waiting for you.
The day’s festivities, steered by the charismatic Kimeze Kapalaga began with early matches that set the competitive tone.
End Game narrowly edged Monday Law FC 1-0 while Team Massape clinched a 2-1 victory over Jubilewos.
The energy remained electric as Galacticos defeated Quadballo 2-1 and Trot Ballo and Kummuno Ballo battled to a goalless draw.
But it was the main game that had everyone on the edge of their seats, BIFA ’16, the proud hosts versus the formidable Basunzi.
With extreme anticipation building, BIFA took to the pitch determined to put on a show. They grabbed an early lead in the first half, but few believed they had the stamina to see it through.
Proving the doubters wrong, BIFA doubled their advantage in the second half through the lightning-quick John Mark who masterfully lifted the ball past the Basunzi goalkeeper after a brilliant breakaway.
Although Basunzi fought back to grab a consolation goal, BIFA held firm sealing a hard-earned 2-1 victory.
Following the thrilling match, BIFA captain Gonhasa Fred reflected on the team’s performance,
“It has not been an easy victory. We’ve had to put in a very solid shift. Special shout-out to the boys, they really put their bodies on the line. Coming into this, we agreed to give it our all, because if you want to be the best, you have to work more than everyone else, regardless of circumstances.”
Fred also emphasized the spirit behind the Budo League,
“The league is about more than football. It’s about networking, building lasting friendships, and creating opportunities. Personally, I even got my job thanks to someone I met through the league.”
Isaac Kimeze Kapalaga, BIFA Chairman, was full of praise for the partnership with Jubilee Insurance,
“Our organization is top-notch, both on and off the pitch, and we attribute a lot of that to our main sponsor, Jubilee Life Insurance. With their support, we worry less about the logistics and focus more on playing and connecting.”
Speaking about the tournament itself, Kapalaga noted the league’s unique value,
“We are blessed with immense talent at the grassroots. Players like John Mark, who was sensational today, show why scouts should pay more attention to leagues like ours.”
He emphasized that while not all players aspire to professional careers, the league remains a platform for talent discovery and personal growth.
As the day shifted from fierce competition to relaxed celebration, the spirit of the Budo League continued to shine. League President Harold Atukwase captured the essence of the event perfectly:
“What makes the league special is the communion of Budonians across generations. Our oldest team left Budo in 2003, the youngest in 2022. It’s a unique space where people who have been working for 20 years meet those just starting their careers.”
Atukwase further highlighted the youthful energy of the league:
“Over 70% of our participants are under 30. This constant wave of energy, vigor and fresh ideas keeps the league lively and growing stronger with every season.”
Now eight seasons deep since its inception in 2018, the Budo League has cemented itself as not just a competition but a community.
As night fell over Legends, the spirit of celebration carried on. Attendees gathered to watch the FA Cup semi-final clash between Nottingham Forest and Manchester City, as well as a Premier League showdown where Liverpool were crowned EPL champions against Spurs.
And when the matches ended, the real party began. Deejay Bugy and MC Isaac Kimeze took over, lighting up the evening with infectious beats and electrifying performances that kept the crowd dancing late into the night.
