Buddo SS ends Kitende’s 22-year reign to clinch historic netball title

National Ball Games II

Net ball

Final results

Buddo 29 St Mary’s Kitende 27

Buddo SS clinched the 2025 USSSA National Netball Championship, toppling long-reigning champions St Mary’s SS Kitende and ending their 22-year dominance in school netball.

In a fiercely contested final on Thursday afternoon, Buddo edged Kitende 29–27 in a match that was overshadowed by officiating controversy. With the game tied at 22–22 and only a minute remaining, a stepping call against Kitende by Umpire Emma proved pivotal, handing Buddo the advantage and forcing extra time, where they sealed their historic victory.

Kitende had opened strongly, controlling pace and tempo, but momentum shifted as disputed decisions stirred frustration among fans and players. Buddo led 11–9 after the first quarter, while Kitende fought back in the second and fourth quarters with renewed energy. Yet it was Buddo who held their nerve in extra time.

As the final whistle blew, celebrations erupted in Buddo’s camp, while disbelief and disappointment gripped Kitende supporters, many of whom questioned the fairness of key officiating calls.

The defeat brings to a close Kitende’s remarkable two-decade grip on the title, held since 2002, while Buddo SS now makes history with their maiden championship win.

“We congratulate Buddo SS on their historic win, but it’s clear that some officiating decisions influenced the outcome,” said a visibly disappointed Kitende fan, Martin Byamukama.

Despite the loss, Kitende will join Buddo SS, St Noa Girls, and Hamdan Islamic School in representing Uganda at the FEASSA Games next month in Kakamega, Kenya.

The USSSA Ball Games II and Athletics Championships officially conclude today, Friday, July 18, at the King George IV Memorial Stadium in Tororo, with the closing ceremony set to be attended by the state minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang. It marks the end of a thrilling week full of competitive drama, breakout performances, and lasting memories.