Mpoza Draws Lessons as Light College’s FEASSA Campaign Ends
By Kayiira Jackson
Light College Katikamu’s hopes of reaching the semi-finals of the 2026 FEASSA Games netball championship have come to an end after a heavy 63–21 defeat to defending champions St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School Kitende on Tuesday in Morogoro, Tanzania.
Kitende took control from the opening whistle, racing to a 17–5 lead in the first quarter before extending their advantage to 39–13 by halftime.
The defending champions continued to dominate after the break, leading 42–17 at the end of the third quarter before completing a convincing 63–21 victory.
Light College’s elimination was further confirmed after Bukokholo defeated Mkolani, a result that left the Ugandan side unable to secure a semi-final place.
Despite the disappointing exit, Light College head coach Ivan Mpoza believes the experience will provide valuable lessons for the team as they seek to return stronger in future editions.
Mpoza revealed that he only took charge of the team shortly before the tournament, giving him just one week to prepare the players.
“We were invited so late and my boss plus the whole team welcomed it. I prepared the team one week to the tournament, so I think we have done our best,” Mpoza said.
The coach also highlighted the difference in officiating between Uganda and international competitions as one of the key lessons from their FEASSA campaign.
“Umpires know what they do; however, the spirit of their country comes back, which isn’t the same as our umpires here,” he observed.
Mpoza said the experience has reinforced the importance of preparing for different conditions ahead of regional competitions.
“The lesson learned is that you have to be prepared in each and every situation because what we get in Uganda in terms of umpiring is so different outside Uganda,” he added.
Although Light College will not continue into the semi-finals, Mpoza promised that the experience would motivate the team to work harder and make another attempt at the East African stage.
“I just want to promise people that since we have tested this, we are to work hard to see that we come back to EA,” he said.
Mpoza also thanked the school administration, supporters, financial backers and well-wishers for helping the team participate in the regional championship.
For Light College, the FEASSA campaign ends in disappointment, but the lessons from Morogoro could prove valuable as the Katikamu-based side looks to build a stronger team for future regional competitions.