By Michael Ainomugisha and Yasiri J. Kasango
Maseno University, Kenya – Uganda Christian University (UCU) teams delivered remarkable performances on day three of the 14th East African University Games, dominating in multiple disciplines and keeping their championship hopes alive.
Volleyball
The UCU women’s volleyball team showcased their resilience with a straight-sets win over their opponents, triumphing 3-0 with set scores of 27-25, 25-23, and 25-14. Meanwhile, the UCU men’s volleyball team edged Bugema University in a thrilling five-set match, winning 3-2 and demonstrating grit and determination.
Basketball
In women’s basketball, UCU delivered a commanding performance, defeating United States International University (USIU) 70-12 in a one-sided encounter. The win highlights UCU’s dominance on the court and cements their status as tournament favorites. The UCU Lady Canons have qualified for finals.
The quarterfinal stage of the men’s basketball competition at the 13th East African University Games delivered mouth watering action at Maseno University. UCU Canons secured a dominant 56-37 victory over United States International University (USIU) to book their spot in the semifinals, where they will face the hosts Maseno University, who defeated the University of Nairobi (UoN) 63-53.
Football
The UCU Lady Cardinals team secured an impressive 3-0 win over Maseno University, with Jovia Nakagolo netting two goals and Jane Nantongo adding a third. However, the UCU men’s football team faced heartbreak in the quarterfinals, drawing 0-0 against Kampala University (KU) in regulation time but losing 5-4 in a penalty shootout. The Lady Cardinals are set to battle it out with Makerere University.
Netball
UCU’s netball team advanced to the finals with a convincing 64-38 semifinal victory over Makerere University Business School (MUBS). The team’s relentless offense and solid defense kept their opponents at bay and set the stage for an exciting final.
Table Tennis singles
UCU sealed a clean sweep in the women’s table tennis singles at the 13th East African University Games, with the final showcasing two of their own. Irene Wotanabeera emerged as the champion, taking home the gold medal, while Amaniyo Flavia secured the silver in a thrilling all-UCU showdown.
The impressive display highlights UCU’s strength in table tennis, as both athletes demonstrated skill and sportsmanship, solidifying their university’s dominance in the sport.
Track and Field
The recently concluded track and field competition at the 13th East African university games saw the UCU athletes deliver outstanding performances, amassing a total of 11 medals across various disciplines. Women dominated the gold medal tally, claiming victory in the 100m, 200m, 4x100m relay, javelin, and triple jump events. The men also clinched gold in the 4x100m relay. In the silver category, athletes excelled in the men’s triple jump, 100m, and 200m, as well as the women’s discus throw. The bronze medal haul included the women’s 100m and the men’s long jump, showcasing a balanced team effort and remarkable athleticism.
As the games progress, UCU continues to demonstrate excellence across various disciplines, reaffirming their position as a powerhouse in East African university sports. All eyes now turn to the upcoming matches as UCU teams aim to bring home more accolades.
