The birth of both the U14 Boys and Girls Futsal League competitions has had a significant impact on the growth of the game.
Kicked off in May this year, It was the first time to witness young ones having fun and showcasing their talents in a five-aside Futsal game.
With a total of 11 teams, seven boys’ teams and four girls’ teams pitted in three groups, a platform was set for exposure purposes.
72 games were played in the first round by 119 players (boys and girls), scoring a resounding 153 goals.
The first round of U14 Futsal Leagues climaxed with Azteks Soccer Academy (Girls), Michezo Kids, and Kampala Junior Team (KJT) topping their respective groups.
The second round of both leagues will resume in the next school holidays between August and September this year.
Players like; Ivan Irinimbabazi of Soltilo Bright Stars, Travis Mutyaba of SC Villa, Rogers Mato of KCCA FC, and others, have all played Futsal before joining the Uganda Premier League.
What people say about the U14 Futsal
Away from the statistics, we talked to coaches and one of the parents about the birth of these leagues and the positives of this game.
Yosia Kidde (Coach, Azteks Soccer Academy-Girls)
“We were excited to watch these young girls try out a new adventure. It was a joy to see these little girls’ confidence bloom, and smiles grow as they play, learn and develop futsal skills.”
“The Futsal league can provide opportunities to our underprivileged girls to be well mentored and as a result, many can become great futsal players, future coaches, referees, sports marketers, and tournament match officials.”
“Our target is to encourage more girls into the game and possibly with time have a futsal women’s team that can even play at the national level.”
Ddungu Douglas aka ‘Pep Guardiola’ (Coach KJT)
“I thank the Futsal organizers for this initiative which builds a firm grassroots foundation, we are now learning this amazing game.”
“This league is promoting skills to our players and I encourage fellow coaches and managers to try to build these young players for a better future instead of focusing on winning games just.”
“I will be glad to see Uganda winning in Dakar come 2026 and also to promote these young players’ talents to go beyond the local scene.”
Christopher Kakande, Parent
Father to Anorld Mark Kankande, a player at Junub Football Academy, Christopher Kakande liked the intensity of the game.
“Arnold being just about 11 years, this was a very big opportunity for him to play in a category way over his age. He turns 11 in September this year!”
“The sport being a 5 aside game makes it a high pace sport. This helped my boy to showcase his potential and skills.”
“The organizers were on top of their game when it came to media and communication. My boy had an opportunity to trend on the different media platforms which was a very big motivation to him. He was eager to give 100% in every game due to good media coverage.”
“There is no doubt this league and sport will open doors to our kids.”
Courtesy Photos
