Head coach James Cemari’s influence continues to shape a promising generation after guiding Maroons Soccer Academy to a commanding 3-0 victory over Pase A Pase Soccer Academy in Match Day one of the FUFA Academies League on 29th March.
For Cemari, this win carried more meaning than just three points. He revealed that his journey with the team began years ago, working with many of the players when they were just eight years old which is a foundation that is clearly paying off now.
“I started with most of these boys at the age of 8, and what you see now is the result of patience, hard work, and belief,” he shared after the match.
The performance reflected that deep-rooted understanding. Maroons SA played with structure, discipline, and confidence .
All standards of his team reflect the objectives of the FUFA Academies League, a competition which was designed to nurture young talent and bridge the gap between grassroots and elite football .
The FUFA Academies League match day one Kicked off at the FUFA stadium Kadiba on 22 March 2026 with eight teams , six teams played on 28th March 2026 at St .Marys Stadium kitende and closed off 29th March 2026 at Yes Centre Nsambya .
Cemari’s approach aligns perfectly with the league’s vision , long-term player development over short term success. His side’s ability to control the game and convert chances into three goals showed not just technical ability, but also tactical maturity built over years.
As the FUFA Academies League continues to grow as a key platform for youth football in Uganda, performances like this underline its importance in shaping the future of the game.
PHOTO CREDIT : Maroons SA .
A development journey that starts early yields results, the goals for Maroons were scored by Charles Ochen Converted a penalty in the 17th minute of the game , Mabil Anyieth in the 38th minute and Edwin Toko sealed off in the 74th minute.
"Technically, the boys did their best; we just need to work on conceding goals,” Paul Kasule head coach Pase A Pase soccer Academy shared after loss to Maroons Soccer Academy .
Other Academies were in action early in the morning where a player from Isra Soccer Academy Ssenyange Latif suprised the crowd with scoring five goals in one match which gave his team the 5 - 2 win over Kayda Soccer Academy .
Matchday one of the FUFA Academies League has set an exciting tone for the season ahead. Young talents across the academies have already shown glimpses of skill, determination, and teamwork, giving fans plenty to look forward to. While it’s only the beginning, the performances hint at a competitive and thrilling league, one that promises to shape the future stars of Ugandan football.
