The 15th NACOBA Sports Gala brought together Namilyango College Old Boys from across generations for a day filled with competition, camaraderie, and celebration.
Hosted at the MUBS grounds and proudly powered by Guinness, this year’s event saw 22 cohorts battling it out across 10 sports disciplines, including football, rugby, chess, scrabble, table tennis, volleyball, basketball, tug of war, the 100m*4 relays, and the sack race.
Chief Guest Justice Thomas Ocaya addresses the guests during the award ceremony, NACOBA President Matayo Alex Asiimwe looks on.
At the end of an action-packed day, The Knights (2016-2022 Cohort) claimed the overall championship trophy, with the Hornets (Class of 2011) securing second place and the Lycans Class of 2017 following closely behind.
Daniel Kalungi, Head of Key Accounts and Spirits UBL receives a certificate on behalf of Uganda Breweries during the award ceremony.
The day was graced by Chief Guest Justice Thomas Ocaya, who commended the spirit of unity and celebration that defines the NACOBA community. “It is important for us to appreciate the value of cohorts coming together, not just to compete, but to celebrate life, friendship, and the enduring bond we share. I am honoured to be part of this beautiful occasion,” he remarked.
Guinness, a longstanding supporter of sports and social experiences, played a key role in making the event memorable. Speaking at the gala, Guinness brand representative Dennis Wokorach shared, “Guinness is all about being part of moments that bring meaning to people’s weekends. This gala is a perfect example of how sports and good company create unforgettable experiences. As a brand that has always been passionate about sports, especially football, we couldn’t miss out on the fun.”
Beyond the competition, the NACOBA Sports Gala that was held on Women,s Day honoured the women in the lives of the Old Boys, with this year’s edition featuring a special ladies’ 100m*4 relay race. Sister alumni associations from Trinity College Nabbingo, Gayaza High School, Mt. St. Mary’s College Namagunga, and Maryhill High School, Mbarara, took part, with the Gayaza Old Girls Association emerging victorious.
NACOBA President Matayo Alex Asiimwe highlighted the significance of the event, emphasizing how the association continues to grow to accommodate the evolving interests of its members. “We have developed branches such as the NACOBA SACCO, the largest alumni SACCO in the country, NACOBA Consultants Ltd, the Ngo League, and university chapters. Additionally, we recently launched the Namilyango College Peregrine Kibuuka Endowment Fund to support bright but financially challenged students, staff welfare, and infrastructure development at our alma mater.”
This year’s gala was made possible through the support of sponsors including Our Lady of Africa SS Namilyango, FinFort Limited, Uganda Breweries Ltd, Stanbic Bank, Pepsi, Forvis Mazars, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Uganda Table Tennis Association.
As the oldest school in Uganda, established in 1902, Namilyango College continues to inspire generations, and the NACOBA Sports Gala remains a testament to the strength of its alumni network. With sports, networking, and community spirit at its core, the event continues to foster meaningful connections and uphold the legacy of the institution.
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