Makerere-Impis and Panthers emerged champions of the second round of the Central 7s Series held at the University of Kisubi, in a tournament that brought together rugby, community, Education and Service under the theme “Community Partnerships”.
Hosted by Kisubi Pacers RFC, the Kisubi 7s brought together eight men’s teams and four women’s teams over the weekend on Sunday for a competitive rugby and community engagement.
In the men’s competition, Makerere-Impis lifted the title after defeating Golden Badgers 24–7 in the final.
The women’s competition was won by Panthers, who went through the tournament unbeaten to claim the championship.
For hosts Kisubi Pacers, the tournament began with an impressive display of determination.
The Pacers came from behind to defeat Gayaza Gladiators 22–10 before overcoming Warriors RFC 20–12 in the group stages.
Their women’s side, Lady Pacers, opened their campaign with a 10–0 victory over Buddu Cuppas, before suffering defeats to Lady Swans and eventual champions Panthers.
Beyond the results on the pitch, the Kisubi 7s provided a powerful demonstration of what meaningful community partnerships can achieve.
A particularly memorable moment came when parents of Kisubi Pacers players joined the match-day celebrations by presenting match balls and awards.
The gesture recognized the important role parents play in encouraging, supporting and sustaining their children’s participation in sport.
For many families, rugby is more than competition. It is a space where young people develop discipline, confidence, teamwork and friendships.
The involvement of parents at the tournament reinforced the message that nurturing young talent is a shared responsibility between families, clubs and the wider community.
The tournament also became a practical classroom for University of Kisubi nursing students through the University’s Service Learning Programme.
Each participating team was supported by a student nurse who worked alongside the team’s medical personnel during the tournament.
The arrangement strengthened the teams’ medical capacity and improved the availability of medical support during matches, while giving the student nurses an opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in a real sporting environment.
The experience reflected the University’s commitment to engaged learning—where students do not simply learn about professional practice in classrooms, but gain experience by serving and working alongside communities.
The Regional Development Officer Mr. Asiimwe Keith commended the student nurses for their contribution to the tournament.
“The student nurses have done a good medical job supporting the teams at the tournaments, and I would like to interest them in taking Rugby First Aid courses”, he added.
The encouragement has already sparked interest among the student volunteers. During their reflection after the tournament, the nurses expressed their intention to pursue the World Rugby First Aid (FAIR) course, with the goal of developing the skills needed to become qualified rugby Level 1 medics and deepen their experience in sports medicine.
The Kisubi 7s demonstrated how sport can create opportunities that extend far beyond the scoreboard.
Players competed, parents celebrated, students learned, clubs built relationships and the University opened its learning environment to the wider community.
Representing the University of Kisubi at the tournament were Br. Dr. Bernard Luwerekera also Coordinator of the Service Learning Programme, Mr. Kimuli Julius also 14th Guild President,Ms. Namirimo Daisy also President of the Service Learning Club and Mr. Senteza Charles also member of the Service Learning Programme.
As the Central 7s series moves forward, the Kisubi stop leaves behind more than winners and results.
It offers a practical example of how universities, sports clubs, families and students can work together to create experiences that build skills, strengthen relationships and serve the community.
At Kisubi, rugby was not just played it became a bridge between the University and the community.
