The annual Lamennais football tournament, the oldest schools competition in the country, is set to kick off on August 25th, 2024, with St. Henry’s College Kitovu in Masaka District hosting this year’s edition.
The tournament, organized by the Brothers of Christian Instruction Kisubi, will run until September 1st, as schools compete in both boys’ and girls’ football leagues. The main objective of the Lamennais Tournament is to bring together the Brothers’ schools in a spirit of sportsmanship, honoring the founding father, Jean Marie de Lamennais.
Defending champions St. Charles Lwanga SS Kasasa and Uganda Martyrs High School Lubaga will be looking to retain their boys’ and girls’ titles, respectively. However, they will face stiff competition from the other participating schools, which include St. John Fisher Ibanda SS, Caltec Academy Makerere, Bishop Comboni College Kambuga, and the host, St. Henry’s College Kitovu.
The tournament has a rich history of producing talented footballers, with the likes of Nicholas Kasozi, Douglas Oyirwoth, Abu Mayanja, and Pius Ssebulime among the notable alumni who have gone on to play professionally.
This year’s edition carries the theme “Stepping forward with hope for Greater output,” reflecting the organizers’ desire to inspire the young athletes to excel both on and off the pitch.
As the schools gear up for the tournament, the excitement and anticipation among the players, coaches, and fans are palpable. The Lamennais Tournament promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the best of Ugandan school football.
