The Gombe League Returns for Season 4 With 18 Teams and Bigger Plans
By Walusimbi Muhammad, Gombe League Secretary
Kampala, Uganda | Monday, July 27, 2026
The Gombe Old Students Football League, popularly known as The Gombe League, is back for Season 4, bigger, more structured, and more inclusive than ever. Set to kick off on 27th September 2026 at Yes Center Arena, Nsambya, the league will expand to 18 teams as it continues to serve as the premier sports and networking platform for alumni of Gombe Secondary School in Butambala District.
For context, Gombe Secondary School is regarded as the pulse and heartbeat of education in Butambala, a district curved out of the former Mpigi District, underscoring the magnitude of the institution behind this growing alumni movement.
From Gallas to a Full League
The concept of The Gombe League was initiated by Mr. Jjingo Faizo, an alumnus from the Form 6 class of 2015, who saw sports as a tool to reunite different alumni year groups. Following disruptions by the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative began organically with three highly successful soccer galas held at Henry’s Sports Center in Kabalagala:1st Edition Gala: Started with 10 pioneer class teams. Champions: BYE15 2nd Edition Gala: Expanded to 12 teams. Champions: BYE15 3rd Edition Gala: Maintained 12 teams. Champions: TYOY, Form 6 class of 2014
Mr. Jjingo Faizo, Vision beaerer
Driven by the popularity and administrative success of these galas, participating classes resolved to transition into a full, long-term league format. To ensure accountability and growth, a formal executive committee was established: Executive Committee Chairperson: Mr. Kasewi Mathiew, Vice Chair: Namulondo Farida, Operations Director: Jjingo Faizo, League Secretary: Walusimbi Muhammad, Legal Officer: Mayanja Rithwan, Treasurer: Nuwagaba Norman and Match Commissar: Kalungi Mubarak, who double as the representative of the Old Gombenians Club.
Objectives Beyond Football: The committee has formalized the league’s objectives to transform it from a casual tournament into a corporate and social entity: Alumni Unity & Strategic Networking: Foster solidarity, break generational barriers, and encourage professional, social and business networking. Talent Nurturing & Physical Wellness: Promote healthy living and showcase grassroots football talent among alumni. Institutional Bridge-Building: Create structured communication and development links between Old Gombenians and the current Gombe Secondary School administration. Demographic Inclusivity & Corporatization: Turn match days into lifestyle experiences with board games, tug of war, chess, draft, Ludo and other activities to increase female alumni participation.
Season 3 Review:
The league officially launched its first competitive season in July 2023 with 14 teams. Monthly matches are played in Kampala every last Sunday of the month, while the grand finale has been hosted at Gombe Secondary School for the past three seasons. Season 1 concluded April 2024 with14 teams. Champions: Bantams, Class of 2020. Season 2 Concluded April 2025 with 15 teams. Champions: BYE15. Season 3 Concluded June 2026 with 16 teams. Extended into June due to disruptions from the 2026 Ugandan General Elections. Champions: Toto FC Class of 2016, First Runners Up: Bantams FC Class of 2020. Season 3 matches were hosted at Yes Center Arena, Nsambya and Ammars Sports Center, Bunga, with the grand finale returning to Gombe Secondary School.
Toto FC, Season 3 Winners
Captain Jovan, Toto FC
While Masanyu FC, class of 2009 struggled to impress on the pitch, they were voted the best fans club with no competition from any other teams. They brought vibe, joy, excitement and numbers to the pitch, a true definition of socialization that other teams need to borrow a leaf. Indeed, Masanyu FC stood out as a breath of fresh air to the League. As we speak, they are already pumped up and warming for season 4, doing endless drills and trainings at Akamwesi mall pitch. Masanyu is a team to watch in season 4.
Masanye FC Team.
What to Expect in Season 4. Season 4 promises major upgrades: Expansion to 18 teams to accommodate growing interest from younger and older alumni, Rebranded match days to include lifestyle and corporate networking experiences, Introduction of non-football games like board games and social spaces fully integrated into match days, Upgraded service delivery: better officiating, improved match-day medical response, and professional media coverage including photography, videography and highlights. The executive committee expressed gratitude to Hajji Zzimbe Abduh, Headteacher Gombe Secondary School, Mr. Wasoko Abdallah, Deputy Headteacher, the entire Gombe community, and all teams that made Season 3 a success, despite a tight political year. They are now calling on all class representatives and team captains to begin coordination early. Adherence to new vetting procedures and financial policies will be key to delivering a seamless, elite and highly entertaining Season 4.“Working together to build a better and more unified Gombe community is the league’s call. Let the touches of magic begin,” the committee stated.
Story by Walusimbi Muhammad, Gombe League Secretary
