The Rhino Soccer Academy holiday program is underway, offering young players in Lira and beyond a platform to sharpen their football skills while growing socially and mentally.
According to Media Officer Abel Ogwang, the initiative was designed to keep budding talents engaged during the school break while also deepening their knowledge of the game.
“We want to use the holiday period not only to build football skills but also to encourage social development, where all our players come together and grow as a unit,” Ogwang explained in an interview with NBS Sport.
The academy, now in its third year, has already seen promising success stories.
Thirteen-year-old Moses Otim was voted Best Young Player at the inaugural Dwog Pacu Cup, while ten-year-old Lazarus Opio netted eight goals in six matches for Dokolo District during the U-12 national meet in Yumbe.
Rhino Soccer Academy has also partnered with Twino Investment Limited, which manages some of its standout players.
Ogwang said this year’s focus is twofold: developing football ability and instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, and positive social lifestyles.
“We’re not just training players. We’re nurturing future ambassadors who will one day represent Uganda on bigger stages,” he noted.
The program is open to young players at a registration fee of 20,000 shillings, with an additional 30,000 for a training jersey and 50,000 for the holiday program itself.
Activities include regular training sessions, competitive youth games, and weekend drills for children within Lira City.
Ogwang emphasized that Rhino Soccer Academy’s vision remains centered on nurturing local talent into professional footballers while creating a sense of national pride through sport.