In a move that has sent ripples of excitement through Busoga’s football fraternity, Isaac Kitakule, widely known as Coach Ozil, has officially returned to the helm of Butembe FC. His comeback marks a dramatic and poignant chapter in the club’s history, as he steps back into a role he was controversially dismissed from during the group stages of the previous MTN Busoga Masaza Cup, only for Butembe to go on and lift the coveted trophy without him.
Now, with the past firmly behind him and a bold vision for the future, Coach Ozil has vowed to defend the Masaza Cup title, making history not just for Butembe, but for himself.
“I thank Butembe for trusting me again,” a resolute Ozil stated at the official unveiling of the club’s new organizing team on Saturday in Jinja. “This is our moment to defend what we built. I also thank the Kyabazinga and the Inhebantu for the Masaza Cup initiative, which has helped uncover talent across Busoga, providing a platform for our youth.”
Ozil’s return is seen by many as a narrative of redemption for a coach whose unceremonious exit last season left many questions. His re-appointment signifies a renewed trust from the club’s leadership and an implicit acknowledgment of his foundational role in their previous triumph. The challenge ahead is clear: prove that their 2023 victory was no fluke and solidify Butembe’s status as the region’s premier footballing force.
A Strong Foundation: The New Butembe FC Leadership
The unveiling event, a colorful affair, saw the introduction of a robust and experienced organizing team poised to provide Coach Ozil and his technical staff with unwavering support. Steering the ship will be Patron Hon. Lufafa Ruben and Chief Advisor Al-Hajji Kitezaka Swaibu. The executive leadership includes Sempala Joseph as President, Bernard Obwo as Chairperson, and Owek. Kisubi Moses as Vice Chairperson.
Further strengthening the administrative backbone are Kabanda Joseph (Administrator), Owek. Mukembo Tonny Wagabaza (Finance), Owek. Mwiita David (Spokesperson), and Owek. Ibanda Ayub (Security), among others.
Technical Prowess: Ozil’s Backroom Staff
On the technical front, Coach Ozil will be flanked by a seasoned team of assistants. Wahampi Joseph, Mugabi Peter, and Kiiza Shafic will serve as his deputies, with Kaggwa Alamnazani taking charge as Goalkeeping Coach and Kirunda Innocent stepping in as Technical Doctor. The overall technical oversight will be handled by Wamala Ismail, assisted by Lubwama Abdul Hakim. Completing the essential backroom staff are Team Manager Kivumbi Hassan and media officer Waiswa Moses Mark, ensuring smooth operations and effective communication.
Butembe’s commitment to the wider Masaza initiative is further underscored by Shak Bogere, who will serve as their representative on the Masaza organizing committee. Health services, a critical aspect of modern football, will be diligently managed under Tenwa Guard.
The event also saw the presence of Owek. Godfrey Ivan Tibenkana and Wotakyali Eria from the office of the Katukiro, reaffirming the Busoga Kingdom’s unwavering support for the Masaza Cup initiative and Butembe FC’s endeavors.
As the new season approaches, all eyes are firmly fixed on Coach Ozil. With unfinished business and a historic title to defend, his return to Butembe FC sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating and fiercely contested MTN Busoga Masaza Cup campaign. The journey to make history, once missed, now lies squarely within his grasp.
