University Football League Launches 14th Season with 31 Teams as Group Draws Are Held

The University Football League (UFL) has launched its 14th season, with the number of participating teams increasing from 29 to 31 following the inclusion of three new universities.

The launch and group draws were held at Kati Kati Restaurant in Lugogo on Thursday, October 15, with the teams divided into three groups. Defending champions Muteesa 1 University were placed in Group B, which has 11 teams.

Seeta University, Metropolitan University and University of World Mission Frontier are the three new entrants, while Mbarara University of Science is the only team that will not return for the new season.

The new universities were represented at the launch by Arnold Ssemakula for Seeta University, Daudi Nkalubo for Metropolitan International University and Gaitano Okumu for University of World Mission Frontier.

In a joint statement, the representatives highlighted their ambition to develop talent and strengthen relationships with other institutions through participation in the competition.

“We have noticed that we have talent to develop, compete and build relationships with other universities,” they said.

Group B, which features defending champions Muteesa 1 University, also includes Kabale University, Mountains of the Moon University, St Lawrence University, Nkumba University, Makerere University, Bugema University, IUEA, KIU and ISBAT.

Group A comprises King Ceaser, Uganda Martyrs University, Uganda Christian University, MUBS, IUIU, Busitema University, Kumi University, Soroti University and University of World Mission Frontier.

Group C features Lira University, Muni University, Gulu University, Kampala University, Kyambogo University, University of Kisubi, Seeta University, Ndejje University and African Renewal.

The fixtures are expected to be released on Friday, October 16, with the opening match scheduled for October 20 at Hamz Stadium, Nakivubo War Memorial. The defending champions are expected to take on one of their Group B opponents as the new season gets underway.