The Lugogo Indoor Arena crackled with energy this past weekend as the third edition of the National Badminton League officially took flight. While the tournament welcomed back old favourites and celebrated the sport's growth, the primary story was the arrival of the new powerhouse: SR KUKU
Stepping onto the court the first time, SR KUKU didn't just participate- they conquered. The debutant made their intentions crystal clear by sweeping their opening fixtures with clinical precision. Their roster reads like a "who's who" of Ugandan excellence, featuring Shamika Fadilah the continent's top ranked female seed, Gladys Mbabazi a senior National team icon returning from international training and Kenneth Mwambu a seasoned veteran of the court
SR KUKU's transition from behind the scenes sponsors to front - line competitors is a calculated move. Rapheal Mutuuta, the firm's Human Resource manager, noted that the shift is about more than just points on scoreboard; it is a live demonstration of their brand's identity. By fielding their own team, they're "selling their name " to the public through the lens of elite performance
For Gladys Mbabazi the season represents a personal homecoming. After years of focusing on external training, she's utilizing this league as platform for both competition and community.
"I want to engage more with teammates and also mentor upcoming players", Mbabazi shared that her goal is to pair trophy - winning performances with the development of the next generation.
The League's resurgence is a win for Uganda Badminton Federation. President Annet Nakamya highlighted the competition as a vital tool for monitoring athlete progress and sharpening the country's domestic talent tool.
The momentum isn't limited to the senior tiers. Nakamya revealed that a school league is set to launch in June, with Seroma Christian High School serving as the inaugural host. This initiative ensures that the fire ignited at Lugogo this weekend will spread to educational institutions across the country
Day one results
Super League
SR KUKU 5-0 Ndejje University
Seroma Christian High School 3-2 Sharing Youth Badminton Club
Mbogo High Warriors 5-0 Seroma Christian High School
Mbogo High Warriors 5-0 Ndejje University
SR KUKU 5-0 KBC
Corporate League
State House 4-1 Equity Bank
SR KUKU Corporate 5-0 Baryan BC
Dream Team 5-0 KBC
Equity Bank 5-0 Dream Team
SR KUKU 4-1 Equity Bank
Baryan BC 1-4 Dream Team
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