USSSA to prioritize athletics in 2026 sports calendar

The Uganda Secondary Schools Sports Association (USSSA) has announced plans to place greater emphasis on athletics in the 2026 sports calendar, with the goal of improving performance at the secondary school level.

USSSA President Justus Mugisha told Vision Sports that the association will channel more resources into athletics through funding, training, and regional trials across all 19 zones.

“Our focus in the 2026 calendar is athletics. We shall invest in funding, conduct training, and organize regional trials in all the 19 zones,” Mugisha said.

He noted that Uganda has consistently struggled in athletics at international school competitions, particularly during the Federation of East Africa Schools Sports Association (FEASSA) Games.

“Every year at the FEASSA Games, we return home without an athletics trophy, while our neighbors from Kenya dominate. By concentrating on athletics, we believe this monopoly will end at the August 2026 FEASSA Games in Tanzania,” Mugisha added.

USSSA, in partnership with Uganda Athletics, plans to conduct grassroots talent identification starting at primary school competitions and continuing through secondary levels.

Muhammed Abdallah, chairperson of the USSSA athletics commission, welcomed the initiative, saying it is the only way to uncover hidden talent. “Taking athletics to the districts, regional, and national levels will expose talents that are currently dormant in communities,” Abdallah said.

USSSA CEO Christopher Mugisha emphasized that the program will not only improve sports performance but also instill valuable life skills in athletes. “Athletics will help learners develop discipline, time management, goal setting, problem-solving, and perseverance skills that are crucial for success in academics and future careers,” he explained.

According to Justus Mugisha, Uganda is determined to make the necessary preparations to finally challenge Kenya’s dominance in athletics and secure medals at regional competitions.