Uganda Premier League CEO Mr. Bernard Bainamani has lauded the local football federation, FUFA for the corporate league initiative arguing that it’s an easier way to bring the supposed sponsors closer to football.
“First of all, I thank FUFA for organising this kind of tournament where we see different corporates taking part, those who are in football and those not yet active,” Bainamani told upl.co.ug.
He adds that, “Such tournaments give us an opportunity to talk to them (corporates) about our product and woo them to come into the UPL in a way of partnerships, relationships and sponsorships.”
A total of thirteen corporate teams, including UPL took part in the one day tournament organized at the Fufa technical centre-Njeru with National Water and Sewerage Corporation successfully retaining the trophy.
“This kind of arrangement has formed an arena where we shall begin from and further interact with the corporates to see where they can come in. We have booked appointments with most of them,” Bainamani concludes.
Uganda Premier League team completed the tournament as fourth best in their maiden appearance.
The team was eliminated at the semifinals by fellow newcomers SSL Logistics 3-0 in penalties after a barren full time. Earlier on the team defeated FUFA XI 1-0 in the quarter finals.
Some of the UPL players included the CEO, Mr. Bainamani, Axam Senkayi (communications manager), Johnson Musinguzi (Saints Chairman), Thadeus Kitandwe (Azam coordinator/former Vipers Chairman), Paul Kabaikaramu (Manager UPL) and team coach was Ahmed Kongola (former CEO The Saints FC). Board executive member Mr. Humphrey Mandu was acting technical director.