As the SMACK League Season 6 enters its final days, excitement is building around the anticipated grand finale scheduled for Sunday, 28th January at Legends Grounds in Kampala.
Throughout the season, alumni of all ages have come together to compete and show off their skills on the field, but the finale promises to be the most intense matchday yet.
While addressing the press on Wednesday at Legends, SMACK League CEO Bernard Mukasa noted that the fans should expect a thrilling display of athleticism and competitive spirit on the pitch as well as other related activities off the turf.
“The season finale is an opportunity for us to celebrate the six seasons of the league. It’s also a chance for us to reassure ourselves that the league is growing,” Mukasa said adding that they expect a huge turn up this weekend with fans set to be treated to various forms of entertainment.
The league which is powered by Guinness is set to witness a thriller at the end for Outkasts and Zimbas are joint log leaders with 39 points each. This two sides will play their games at the same time (on different pitches) with the former taking on Block Owners while the latter will come up against Tsunamiz. This will be the final matches of the day. However, Mafiaz who are on 38 points are in the three horse title race and as they take on Vikings, they will hope for draws from the joint leaders and a win on their side in order for them to take the ultimate prize.
Jonan Kato, the league’s Chief Marketing Officer noted that the grand finale for eSports will also happen this Sunday. There will be an accolade for the winning team.
“Season 6 has been a year of remarkable growth, having registered a 66% year-on-year growth in average attendance, thereby solidifying the premier status of the league in the country,” Kato added.
The SMACK League is also set to venture into mentorship programs in areas regarding leadership and finance for both alumni and current students. They also seek to look into their Corporate Social Responsibility program with the hope of widening their scope.
Season 6 has had the firm sponsorship of Guinness Uganda which perfectly complemented the football experience for the football lovers. It has been a remarkable season that brought together 20 teams that have competed in 190 matches over a span of nine months.
“We are definitely looking forward to the grand finale this Sunday. We have an amazing entertainment line-up in store. The brand is ready to deliver an unmatched unforgettable experience for consumers and those looking to have a good time,” says Roy Tumwizere, Guinness Brand Manager.
In addition to the thrilling matches, the SMACK League will honour and recognize all the outstanding individuals and teams for their exceptional performance. The awarding ceremony will recognise exceptional achievements in categories including the Golden Boot Award, the Best Goalkeeper Award, the Most Valuable Player Award, as well as team awards like the Season Champions, Runners-Up, and the Fair Play Award.
Abaasi Muluya of the Block Owners is in the running to win the Golden Boot award with 15 goals while Derrick Walugembe of the Zimbaz is tipped to win the Most Valuable Player Award of the season, owing to his 10 goals and 9 assists so far.
Other sponsors of the league include, Captain Morgan, Flexipay, Stone Castle Inn, Prudential, Soccanett, 88.2 Sanyu FM, Legends, Events Limited, Cavendish University plus.
The SMACK League is a creation of the Old Boys of St Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) and is used as an avenue to meet, network, socialize and exercise. The league is also used as a platform to create opportunities whilst giving back to community. Zuluz (class of 2009) are the defending champions but are 15th on the 20-team table ahead of the season finale.
Previous Smack League Champions
Season 1&2 – Devils (Class of 2004)
Season 3 – Window (Class of 2003)
Season 4 – Alqs (Class of 2007)
Season 5 – Zuluz (Class of 2009)
