*By John Kusolo*
As NEC FC gears up for the Startimes Uganda Premier League 2024/25 season, the club has announced two major partnerships aimed at bolstering its competitive edge in Ugandan football. The agreements, forged with Ebenezer Soccer Academy and Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, are set to create a significant impact in both men's and women's football.
Under the partnership, Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC will now operate as NEC FC's official women’s football team in all Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), Confederation of African Football (CAF), and Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) engagements. This strategic move aims to elevate the club’s standing within the Women Elite League and broaden NEC FC’s footprint in women's football.
*A Commitment to Women's Football* : Remarks from Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC President Brother Tamale Herman, President of Uganda Martyrs Lubaga WFC, praised the partnership, emphasizing that it would not only improve the performance of the team but also instill a strong sense of pride. "This partnership is all about self-pride, and I am confident it will go a long way in enhancing our position in the Women Elite League,” he remarked.
*Ebenezer Soccer Academy* : A Future-Forward Feeder System In addition, NEC FC's collaboration with Ebenezer Soccer Academy promises to nurture future football talent. Ebenezer Academy will serve as NEC FC's feeder club, participating in the Junior League to develop young talent. Kiberu, Director of Light High School Seguku and Founder of Ebenezer Academy, welcomed this collaboration, expressing optimism that the academy would significantly contribute to NEC FC’s talent pipeline.
NEC FC Chairman’s Ambitious Vision Eng. Brian Buhanda, Chairman of NEC FC, expressed great optimism during the unveiling of the partnerships, setting ambitious goals for the upcoming season. He acknowledged the club’s recent achievements, including reaching the Stanbic Uganda Cup final and securing a 6th place finish in the last league season, and promised a trophy for the club in the near future.
“We lost the Stanbic Uganda Cup final last season, but I promise all our partners and fans that NEC FC will either win the league or lift the Stanbic Uganda Cup this season,” Buhanda stated.
Beyond immediate performance, Buhanda also outlined the club’s five-year strategic plan, focusing on the acquisition of a home ground. Currently, NEC FC plays its home matches at the MTN Omondi Stadium, a ground they share with other teams. However, the Chairman emphasized that securing a permanent home ground would be key to the club’s long-term success. "One of our goals is to stop hiring stadiums. We will acquire our home ground to solidify our presence and bring stability to the club,” he added.
*Investment and Sponsorship* : Financial Backing for NEC FC NEC FC has received substantial financial backing through this partnership. Julius Mujuni, General Manager of Muhick International, revealed that they had invested 500 million Ugandan shillings into the project, marking the second consecutive year of support. He promised continued investment, especially with the acquisition of a women's football team and the Ebenezer Academy, which signals the club’s commitment to fostering football development across all levels.
Other sponsors supporting NEC FC include Uzima Water, represented by Major Edgar, who is also Vice Chairman of NEC FC, and Oriental Ventures (OV), who are also backing the team for the new season.
NEC FC’s 2024/25 Season Opener NEC FC will kick off its quest for silverware on Sunday, 15th September 2024, when they face Vipers SC at the MTN Phillip Omondi Stadium in the Startimes Uganda Premier League 2024/25 season opener. Fans, players, and the club's management are filled with optimism, driven by the new partnerships and the promise of a successful season under Eng. Buhanda’s leadership.
With a clear vision, strong financial backing, and the support of strategic partners, NEC FC is poised for an exciting journey in the Ugandan football scene.
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