Teams
Vipers SC
SC Villa
KCCA
Express FC
BUL FC
URA
Bright Stars
Busoga United FC
Mbarara City
UPDF FC
Uganda Police FC
Onduparaka FC
Maroons
Wakiso United
Tooro United
Kitara FC
Gaddafi FC
Proline FC
Arua Hill SC
NEC FC Bugolobi
Kyetume FC
Mbale Heroes
Lugazi FC
Nyamityobora FC
Ndejje University
Masavu FC
Paidha Black Angels
Blacks Power
MYDA FC
Sadolin Paints
Lweza FC
JMC
Wikipedia - Uganda Premier League
The Ugandan Premier League, also known as the StarTimes Uganda Premier League for sponsorship reasons, is the top division of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations. The league was previously known as the Uganda Super League but changed in the 2014–15 season after new management taking over. The league's roots date back to 1968 when the National First Division League was established.
History
Original concept
The genesis of club football in Uganda was an idea copied from England by Balamaze Lwanga and Polycarp Kakooza. The objective was to improve Uganda's performances in the Africa Cup of Nations after disappointing results in the finals in 1962 (fourth-place finish) and 1968 (lost all three group stage matches), both held in Ethiopia. The intention was to start a Uganda National League (the forerunner of the Uganda Super League) to create the foundation for a strong national team. At the same time, the identification of players from the grassroots would be made easier and systematic.
Because there were no clubs to form a league, institutions and districts were contacted to form teams. The 1968 inaugural top-flight league was composed of Prisons, Army, Coffee, Express, Jinja, Masaka, Mbarara, and Mbale. There were three institutions and four districts and one club. The league was known as the National First Division League, and the first league champions were Prisons FC Kampala (now known as Maroons FC).
After four seasons, the political turbulence in Uganda impacted on the league. The 1972 and 1973 championships were not completed because of civil unrest. In 1974, the league became known as the National Football League and this title was used until 1982 when the league was trimmed to ten teams and was renamed the Super League (shortened to Super Ten in that inaugural season).
Super League advent
The emergence of the Super League in 1982 saw the development of SC Villa as the country's leading club. Through the 1980s and a good part of the 1990s, competition between Express, KCC FC and SC Villa lit up the league and fans attended in hoards.
SC Villa won the league for the first time in 1982 and over the next 22 years totalled 16 league titles. KCC FC and Express won the championship title in the intervening years.
Match-fixing
In 2003, football in Uganda hit its lowest ebb as SC Villa put 22 goals past Akol FC when the league title went down to goal difference with Express. This was one of the biggest scandals in Ugandan football and thereafter, there was a complete media shutdown in all matters pertaining to local football. Fans became increasingly disillusioned and deserted the stadia thus affecting the teams financially. The episode represented one of many that has plagued Ugandan football.
The tournament features a thrilling and competitive format, with 16 teams battling it out over the course of several months to claim the coveted title of champions. The matches are played in various stadiums across the country, creating a vibrant and electric atmosphere for both players and fans alike.
The Uganda Premier League is known for its fast-paced and skillful style of play, with teams displaying exceptional technique, agility, and teamwork. The tournament attracts a wide range of talented players, from seasoned veterans to emerging young stars, making it a platform for talent development and recognition.
Fans eagerly support their favorite teams, creating an incredible atmosphere in the stadiums. The passionate and vocal supporters add to the excitement of the matches, creating an unforgettable experience for all involved.
The Uganda Premier League not only showcases the best soccer talent in the country but also serves as a platform for social cohesion and community engagement. It brings people from different backgrounds and regions together, fostering a sense of unity and national pride.
The tournament has gained recognition and respect both locally and internationally, with its teams competing in continental competitions such as the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup. This further elevates the profile of Ugandan soccer and provides an opportunity for players to showcase their skills on a global stage.
Overall, the Uganda Premier League is a thrilling and highly competitive soccer tournament that showcases the best of Ugandan football. It is a celebration of talent, passion, and unity, captivating fans and leaving a lasting impact on the soccer landscape in Uganda.