National USSSA Rugby 7s Champions were crowned as the 2025 USSSA Ball Games II k ended in Tororo on July 18, featuring 18 thrilling disciplines including debuts like Futsal. The National Schools Rugby 7s tournament had quickly become the center of attention despite a slow opening day – especially as St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) emerged champions after a dramatic disqualification of their rivals in the final matches.
This year’s competition saw 18 top schools battling for glory, but SMACK’s journey to gold was anything but ordinary. From a bronze-medal playoff to a last-minute finals entry due to a rival’s disqualification, their victory was historic yet controversial.
SMACK’s Road to USSSA Rugby 7s Champions : From Bronze to Gold
St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK) entered the 2025 USSSA Rugby 7s Nationals with high hopes. After a tough semifinal loss to Jinja SS (12-5), they faced Makerere College School (MACOS) in the third-place playoff. A dominant 24-00 win secured them the bronze medal—or so they thought.
However, the tournament took a shocking turn when Jinja SS was disqualified due to eligibility violations. This decision came after rival schools uncovered irregularities involving one of Jinja SS’s key players. As a result, SMACK was reinstated into the finals, where they faced Mbarara High School.
In a commanding performance, SMACK defeated Mbarara 21-05, claiming the national title becoming USSSA Rugby 7s Champions 2025.This victory marked a historic moment for the school, proving their resilience and adaptability under pressure.
The Jinja SS Disqualification: Age and Identity Scandal
The biggest controversy of the tournament revolved around Jinja SS’s player, Walter Otim. Rival schools (SMACK and MACOS) raised concerns after discovering discrepancies in his age and Identity. Investigations revealed that Otim had:
Two different Learner Identification Numbers (LINs) —one listing his birth year as 2003, another as 2006.
Played in multiple FEASSA Games (2022-2024) but had no USSSA domestic records.An incorrect accreditation tag initially showing the name “Peter Otim” instead of Walter Otim.
Despite an agreement to bench Otim in the semifinals, Jinja SS played him anyway, leading to protests. After a disciplinary meeting, tournament officials disqualified Jinja SS, paving the way for SMACK’s unexpected finals entry.
Nkoma SS Defends Title in Girls’ Rugby 7s USSSA Rugby 7s Champions
While the boys’ tournament was filled with drama, the girls’ Rugby 7s also delivered excitement. Nkoma SS, the defending champions from 2024, continued their dominance by defeating Jinja SS 7-00 in the finals to become USSSA Rugby 7s Champions 2025.
Their victory showcased strong defense and tactical play, proving why they remain a powerhouse in schoolgirls’ rugby. Meanwhile, Jinja SS’s runner-up finish was still commendable, given the tough competition.
What Next ?
The 2025 USSSA Rugby 7s Nationals will be remembered for SMACK’s incredible comeback and the Jinja SS controversy. While debates over player eligibility continue, one thing is certain: St. Mary’s College Kisubi earned their gold medal with skill, determination, and a little bit of luck.
As the tournament wraps up, fans are already looking forward to the FEASSA games in Kakamega and next year’s edition—hoping for more thrilling matches and fairer competition. For now, SMACK and Nkoma SS can celebrate their well-deserved victories!
