Uganda Lacrosse Association (ULA) President Twesiime Liberty has underscored the transformative power of the inclusion of the sport in the lineup for the 2028 Olympics.
He was speaking on the sidelines of the inaugural Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) Awards Dinner at the Kampala Sheraton Hotel.
Speaking at the event, which recognized Uganda’s top athletes, Liberty emphasized how lacrosse’s inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics could be a game-changer for Uganda’s sporting landscape.
The awards ceremony celebrated the country’s athletic excellence, with Lacrosse’s Nsubuga Faisal named Best Male Athlete and Tushemereirwe Ruth honoured as Best Female Player of 2024.
With Uganda being the first African nation to achieve full World Lacrosse membership in 2020, the ULA is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this global stage.
Liberty highlighted how Olympic recognition will enhance the sport’s legitimacy, drawing more youth into the game and increasing domestic interest.
The ULA has already made strides through grassroots programs in refugee settlements like Nakivale and Palabek, as well as through clubs such as the Panthers Lacrosse Club, Jinja Nile Zuluz, and Warriaz.
Beyond visibility, Liberty pointed out that Olympic inclusion could attract much-needed funding. Currently reliant on international donations, the ULA could secure sponsorships and government support, allowing for improved training facilities and equipment.
He referenced Uganda’s historic lacrosse debut at the 2014 World Championship, which was made possible by the $150,000 Dream 2014 Campaign, as an example of how external funding can fuel success.
Liberty also stressed the competitive challenge ahead, as Uganda will have to battle regional rivals like Kenya, Ivory Coast, and Ghana for Africa’s lone Olympic spot.
He noted that Uganda’s experience in the fast-paced Sixes format—set to feature at LA28—through the national league and international qualifiers gives the team a solid foundation.
Despite logistical and financial challenges, Liberty remains optimistic that Uganda’s participation could inspire broader African involvement in lacrosse.
As World Lacrosse aims to expand to nearly 100 nations by 2028, Uganda’s push for Olympic qualification could serve as a catalyst for the sport’s growth across the continent.
While a podium finish in LA28 may be a distant dream, Liberty believes that simply making history as Africa’s first Olympic lacrosse team would be a victory in itself.
