Bright Football Academy (Bright FA), founded by national team defender Emmanuel Imanishimwe (Mangwende) and former professional Danny Usengimana, successfully organised the Merry Christmas Tournament 2025, providing over 240 children an opportunity to develop their football skills, gain match experience, and celebrate the festive season.
The two-day event, held on December 29-31, featured four teams; Bright FA, Green Lovers FA, Brillian FA, and Togetherness FA competing across four age groups: under-8, under-12, under-13, and under-15.
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In the under-13 category, Bright FA emerged victorious, defeating Togetherness FA 1-0.
"It is rewarding to see young players develop their skills and confidence. Events like this are important for nurturing Rwanda’s future football talent,” said AEL Limassol left back Imanishimwe.
"Our focus is on teaching discipline, teamwork, and dedication. These values are essential for the growth of young athletes and the future of Rwandan football,” Usengimana noted.
The children also shared their experiences. Thirteen-year-old Aimable Ishimwe said:
"Playing in a tournament organised by legends like Mangwende and Usengimana gave me confidence and useful tips to improve my game.”
Eleven-year-old Patrick Niyonsaba added:
"Playing with other academies helped me learn teamwork and discipline. I want to keep training hard so one day I can play for the national team.”
Coach Eric Habimana of Bright Football Academy highlighted the academy’s goals:
"Bright FA aims to provide structured training, competitive experience, and guidance for young players. This tournament shows the positive impact of such initiatives on youth development.”
Bright Football Academy is a football development centre currently training 150 youngsters in Rugende, Rwamagana District.
The initiative, launched in April 2025, was born out of Imanishimwe and Usengimana’s shared dream of giving back to the game by creating opportunities for children to develop their talent.
The academy brings together boys and girls, including 25 girls, 25 players under the age of 10, and nearly 100 teenagers below 20.