Home Football Julius Poloto: The loyal KCCA FC faithful whose journey was halted by injuries

Julius Poloto: The loyal KCCA FC faithful whose journey was halted by injuries

by Jeremiah Mugalu
2 minutes read

In the vibrant and ever-changing world of Ugandan football, where players frequently switch jerseys in pursuit of better opportunities, one name stood out for his rare and unwavering loyalty Julius Poloto. 

For nearly a decade, Poloto was more than just a player at KCCA FC; he was the heartbeat of the club, a symbol of commitment, passion and resilience.

Poloto training with KCCA FC.

Poloto’s journey with the Kasasiro Boys began in 2015, when he joined the KCCA FC Soccer Academy as a young, gifted teenager with big dreams. 

Julius Poloto celebrating a goal with Allan Okello.

At the Phillip Omondi Stadium, he grew not just as a footballer but as a part of the club’s identity, learning its philosophy and absorbing its culture. 

“For me, KCCA wasn’t just a team; it is home,” Poloto said in 2018, after winning the Uganda Cup at the Emokori playground in Bukedea district

From academy prospect to club leader

Under the watchful eye of coach Mike Hillary Mutebi, Poloto was promoted to the senior team, where he quickly established himself as a tireless runner, creative playmaker, and inspirational leader. 

Mike Mutebi who gave Julius Poloto his shot at First team football.

His elegant style of play made him a fan favorite, and his work ethic set him apart.

By August 2019, Poloto’s leadership qualities earned him the captain’s armband, an honor that symbolized the trust and respect he commanded both on and off the pitch. 

He became the bridge between the academy and the senior team, mentoring younger players who aspired to follow in his footsteps.

A golden era with KCCA FC

Poloto was central to one of KCCA FC’s most successful periods, helping the club secure multiple trophies:

• Uganda Premier League titles — 2017, 2019

• Uganda Cups — 2017, 2018

• CECAFA Kagame Cup — 2019

• FUFA Super Cups — 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019

• FUFA Super 8 — 2018

• Nkurunziza Cup — 2022

Perhaps his most iconic moment came in 2018, during the Uganda Cup final against Vipers SC, when he scored the lone goal that sealed KCCA FC’s record 10th Uganda Cup title. It was a memory etched forever in the hearts of the KCCA faithful.

On the National stage

Poloto’s consistency at club level earned him recognition on the national stage. He proudly represented Uganda at the U17, U20, and U23 levels before receiving a call-up to the Uganda Cranes senior team, where he featured in several matches. 

His ability to rise to big occasions cemented his reputation as one of Uganda’s finest midfielders of his generation.

When injuries changed everything

Just as his star was shining brightest, Poloto’s career trajectory began to shift. A series of persistent injuries slowly limited his influence on the pitch, forcing him to spend long periods on the sidelines. For a player known for his energy and creativity, it was a painful chapter.

Despite his struggles, Poloto remained a pillar in the dressing room leading, inspiring, and mentoring even when he couldn’t play. His resilience earned him even deeper respect from fans and teammates alike.

The emotional goodbye

After nearly a decade of service, KCCA FC and Julius Poloto have now mutually parted ways. For the club, it marks the end of an era; for the fans, it’s a bittersweet farewell.

In a statement, KCCA FC described Poloto as “a true son of the club” a sentiment echoed by the thousands of fans who cheered his name at the MTN Omondi Stadium.

Poloto leaves behind not just a collection of medals but a legacy built on loyalty, leadership, and passion. He became more than just a footballer; he became a symbol of what it means to wear the yellow jersey.

A legacy etched in Gold

Though injuries may have halted his journey at KCCA FC, Julius Poloto’s name will forever live in the club’s history books.

To the fans, he will always be remembered as the boy from the academy who grew into a captain, a champion, and a role model for future generations.

And for the KCCA faithful, Julius Poloto will remain exactly that; family.

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