Uganda Rugby Union Pays Tribute to Late Sydney Gongodyo, Heathens-Pirates Clash Postponed

The Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has announced the postponement of the Uganda Rugby Premiership semi-final match between Platinum Credit Heathens and Stanbic Black Pirates following the death of Uganda Rugby Cranes and Black Pirates Rugby Football Club player Sydney Gongodyo.

Gongodyo’s death was confirmed by URU on Friday, sending shockwaves across Uganda’s sporting fraternity. Earlier reports indicated that the player may have died as a result of mob justice, although the exact circumstances surrounding his death have not yet been officially confirmed.

In a statement issued by the URU President and Executive Committee, the federation described Gongodyo’s passing as a monumental loss to Ugandan rugby.

“Uganda Rugby has received with profound shock and deep sorrow the news of the untimely passing of Mr. Sydney Gongodyo, a distinguished player of the Uganda Rugby National Team XVs, the Rugby Cranes, and a dedicated member of Black Pirates Rugby Football Club,” part of the statement read.

The federation paid tribute to Gongodyo’s contribution to both club and country, highlighting his role in Black Pirates’ successes during the 2025 Uganda Rugby Premiership campaign and his recent participation in the revamped Enterprise Cup.

“The late Sydney Gongodyo served Uganda with honour, discipline and exceptional commitment. His call-up to the Rugby Cranes was a testament to his talent and dedication, and he represented the nation with the utmost pride and patriotism in regional and international fixtures,” the statement added.

Gongodyo had been named in the Black Pirates squad for the playoff encounter against Heathens before the tragic news of his passing emerged.

As part of the measures announced in his honour, Uganda Rugby confirmed that the Premiership semi-final between Platinum Credit Heathens and Stanbic Black Pirates, originally scheduled for Sunday, June 7, has been postponed to a later date.

The federation also directed that a moment of silence be observed before all Uganda Rugby-sanctioned matches this Saturday, while national team players and officials will wear black armbands in upcoming fixtures.

URU further pledged to work closely with Black Pirates Rugby Football Club and the bereaved family to ensure Gongodyo receives a dignified and befitting send-off.

His death comes at a difficult time for Uganda’s sporting community, which has recently mourned several prominent figures, including former She Corporate FC captain Cissy Nantongo and basketball player Maxine Anyango.

Gongodyo will be remembered as a committed servant of Ugandan rugby whose passion, discipline, humility and leadership left a lasting impact on teammates, opponents and the wider rugby fraternity.

More details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated in due course.