APE Rugunga lifted the Mount Kigali University Inter-Secondary School Football Tournament title last Sunday. In the rain-soaked but thrilling final hosted at the Kagarama Secondary School football ground, they edged Collège George the Fox Kagarama (CGFK) by a goal to nil. Both teams struggled with the wet conditions. However, APE Rugunga scored the lone goal through a deflected free-kick. Despite the challenging weather, the match remained intense throughout, with CGFK pressing hard for an equaliser. However, APE Rugunga’s defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Jean Claude, stood firm to deny their competitors a comeback. The guest of honour at the finals was Mount Kenya University Vice-Chancellor, Prof Deogratius Jaganyi. Speaking during the closing ceremony, he pointed out that whereas a tournament produced only one champion, all participating teams were winners. Prof. Jaganyi hailed the transformative power of sports and urged young people to participate in some sport. He said: “In sports, there are no losers. Every player on the field gains strength, discipline, and resilience. Whether you won today or not, your participation alone is a victory.” He emphasised the role of sports in education and career development. “The global sports industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector providing opportunities beyond the field, including coaching, physiotherapy, sports science, and management. The opportunities in sports are endless, and young athletes must recognise that their dedication today could lead to a fulfilling career tomorrow.” Fourteen teams drawn from Kigali City secondary schools participated in the tournament. The tournament, held from March 14 to March 16, saw intense competition as schools battled for the top spot. In the semi-finals, APE Rugunga overcame ES Kagarama in a dramatic penalty shootout, winning 4-2 after a goalless draw during regulation time. Meanwhile, CGFK mounted an impressive comeback to defeat APAER Rusororo 3-1 and book their place in the final. APE Rugunga’s journey to the championship included a 1-0 victory over APAER Rusororo, a commanding 3-1 win against Star School Masaka, and a 0-0 draw with ES Kagarama, which ultimately led to their penalty shootout success in the semi-finals. Coach Yves Namahoro praised his winning players for their resilience, stating: “We are pleased with how our team performed, especially in handling the pressure during the penalty shootout in the semi-finals. Our focus was on staying disciplined and seizing key moments, and I’m proud of what we achieved.” Cristian Ingabire of CGFK was named Player of the Tournament for his outstanding performances, while Dany Irafasha of APE Rugunga finished as the top scorer with three goals. Kenneth Shema from ES Kagarama was recognised as the Best Young Player, and APE Rugunga’s goalkeeper Jean Claude earned the title of Goalkeeper of the Tournament for his crucial saves throughout the competition. CGFK’s coach, Jean De Dieu Izabayo, reflected on his team’s journey, stating, “We’ve been in great form throughout the tournament. Although the final didn’t go our way, I’m proud of the effort and teamwork our players displayed. This experience will help us grow, and we’ll come back even stronger next time. Mount Kigali University VC, Dr Martin Kimemia, reaffirmed the university’s commitment to supporting young talent. “At Mount Kigali University, we believe in nurturing academic and athletic excellence. This tournament is not just about competition. It’s about building relationships, fostering sportsmanship, and creating opportunities for the future. That is why we have planned to organise this tournament annually and to host other sports tournaments.” The university’s sports coordinator, Emmanuel Manyange Ochako, commended all participating schools and emphasised the tournament's importance. He said: “I thank all the teams that participated and gave their best on the field. While some schools couldn’t join this year due to logistical challenges, we appreciate their commitment and look forward to their participation in future editions.” He added, “This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about building relationships, fostering sportsmanship, and providing a platform for young talent to shine. We are proud to have hosted such a memorable event, and we look forward to seeing more talent emerge in future editions.” Ochako revealed that Mount Kigali University is considering organising an inter-secondary schools’ football tournament for girls. He pointed out that, as the popular saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Similarly, all work and no play makes Jill a dull girl.” Ochako explained: “Sports play an important role in promoting a healthy life and quality education. Studies have shown that students who participate in sports activities tend to be more productive and disciplined.” The inter-secondary football tournament is one of Mount Kigali University’s corporate social responsibility initiatives.
