Victoria University’s rugby team, the Victoria Sharks, will be tussling with the big boys in Ugandan rugby after achieving promotion to the Nile Special Rugby Premier League, the top-flight division of Ugandan rugby.
Based in Kyadondo, the Victoria Sharks launched an ambitious recruitment drive just a year ago. They scouted little-known but promising young talents, offering them study scholarships as part of the package for joining the team.
Key recruits included captain Isaac Tago from the Warriors, Peter Bisaso from the Platinum Credit Heathens, Vernon Kasule from KCB KOBS, and Brian Buk from the Plascon Mongers. Additional players brought on board were Calvin Gizamba, Daniel Kateregga, Aaron Tukei, Solomon Agani, Steven Kalema, and Daniel Ebau.
The team also secured the expertise of experienced coach Kevin Makmot.
The university management provided all necessary logistics and technical support, which significantly boosted the team’s performance.
As a result, the Sharks went unbeaten in the Central Region League, earning the sole slot for the core status qualifiers.
In the decisive qualifiers against regional champions from the north (Gulu City Falcons), west (Kigezi Silverbacks), and east (Elgon Wolves), the Sharks won all three matches. They finished at the top of the log, securing promotion to the top flight alongside the Elgon Wolves.
Reflecting on their successful campaign, Captain Isaac Tago said, “It has been a long journey with ups and downs, but we managed to make it. Thanks to management for their support and for providing many players with opportunities through study scholarships.”
Tago expressed excitement about the upcoming season, stating, “We are looking forward to tussling it out with the big boys. We are not just coming to participate but to compete for the trophy. We aim to add players and build two teams, targeting both seasoned players and those seeking academic excellence.”
