Young talent shines at Mini Cricket Central Qualifiers in Lugogo

The Mini Cricket Central Qualifiers brought excitement and youthful energy to Lugogo last week as Primary School teams from across the Central Region gathered to compete for a slot in the national finals later this year.

Organized under the Mini Cricket Central Program, the tournament featured 12 schools, including DELI International, SHIRI International, Naguru Infant, Shimoni, Naguru Katale, Budo Junior School, and Greenhill Academy.

The event served as a key stepping stone, with the top teams advancing to face regional champions from areas like Kumi, Kasese, Mukono, Mpigi, and Masaka before proceeding to the national finals, also set to take place in Lugogo.

Speaking at the event, Programme Coordinator Derek Bakunzi expressed his enthusiasm for the competition and the sport’s growth among young learners. He highlighted that beyond competition, the tournament is designed to nurture discipline, teamwork, and character among participants.

Throughout the day, it became clear that cricket is doing more than just developing athletic ability; it is shaping behaviour and attitudes among the players.

Amazing Grace Masaroka from East Kololo Primary School shared how the sport has influenced her positively. She emphasised the importance of patience, respect, and avoiding conflict, noting that since the tournament began, players have demonstrated discipline, with no incidents of fighting or abusive language. She credited the organisers and officials for creating an environment where young learners can grow both on and off the field.

For Jovan Kito of Budo Junior School, the tournament has reinforced the value of teamwork. He explained that cricket has taught him perseverance and unity, stressing that success and failure are shared responsibilities among teammates. His coach’s message, “we win as a team and lose as a team”, has become a guiding principle for the players.

Meanwhile, Joweola Opolot from Greenhill Academy described the experience as both educational and enjoyable. Having learned essential skills such as batting and bowling techniques, she encouraged other students to take up the sport, noting its potential to open doors and create opportunities for the future.

The Mini Cricket Central Qualifiers also reflected the growing investment in grassroots sports development. Teachers and coaches have played a vital role in preparing the teams, ensuring that students not only compete but also learn valuable life skills.

As the tournament progresses, attention now turns to the next stages, with regional qualifiers scheduled in Kumi, Soroti, Kasese, and Gulu. The journey will culminate in regional finals in Kampala, where the best young cricketers from across the country will compete for national glory.

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