USSSA Ball Games II 2026: Rubongi Army, Kyambogo College School Make History as First-Ever Kho Kho Champions
By Kayiira Jackson
Tororo’s Rubongi Army Secondary School and Kyambogo College School have etched their names into Uganda’s emerging Kho Kho history after being crowned champions of the inaugural school tournament, delivering commanding performances that showcased the sport’s growing potential.
Rubongi Army Secondary School announced themselves as a force to reckon with after overpowering Serere Secondary School 51–27 in the boys’ final, producing a masterclass built on speed, coordination, and tactical awareness.
From the opening stages of the championship match, Rubongi Army displayed the qualities that define Kho Kho—quick movement, sharp decision-making, and disciplined teamwork. Their ability to control the pace of the game and exploit openings proved decisive as they pulled away from their opponents to claim the first-ever boys’ title.
The victory was more than just a trophy for the Tororo-based side; it was a bold statement of intent from a team making its mark on a sport still finding its feet in Uganda’s competitive landscape.
In the girls’ final, Kyambogo College School matched that level of dominance, overwhelming their opponents 57–33 to become the first women’s champions of the tournament.
Kyambogo’s triumph was powered by a blend of attacking flair and defensive organization, with the team demonstrating the confidence and technical ability required to excel in the fast-paced discipline. Their emphatic win confirmed them as early pioneers of the girls’ game.
The battle for bronze also produced memorable performances. Serere Township secured third place in the girls’ category after defeating Olio Seed School 61–40, while Labori High School completed the boys’ podium with an impressive 87–57 victory over Atiira Seed School in a thrilling high-scoring contest.
Beyond team success, the tournament highlighted outstanding individual performers who stood out among the rising stars of Kho Kho. Kyambogo College School’s Grace Ojil was crowned the girls’ Most Valuable Player, while Egau Isaac of Labori High School earned the boys’ MVP award for his exceptional contribution.
Defensive excellence was rewarded with Jesca Ojilong Fridah of Serere Township named Best Defender in the girls’ category, while Rubongi Army’s Okech Shadrack took the boys’ defensive accolade.
The attacking awards went to Kyambogo’s Lucky Jovian Stella in the girls’ division and Atiira Seed School’s Otim Lazalo among the boys, recognizing their ability to influence matches with creativity and precision.
The historic championship attracted 13 teams, with six competing in the boys’ category and seven in the girls’ division, reflecting the increasing interest in Kho Kho among schools.
As the sport continues to expand within the school games structure, Rubongi Army and Kyambogo College School have set the benchmark for future competitors. Their victories will forever be remembered as the first chapter in Uganda’s Kho Kho championship story—a beginning that promises a new era of speed, skill, and competition.