Moyo Star Wins as ChezaDodge Kwepena Makes Historic Debut at 2026 USSSA Ball Games

Moyo Star High School Crowned Chezadodge Kwepena Champions as Female Participation Shines

The 2026 Uganda Secondary Schools National Ball Games witnessed a historic milestone this year with the official integration of ChezaDodge (Kwepena) into the national sports calendar. Held over three thrilling days, the tournament brought together athletes from across the country to compete in multiple ball games which introduced this fast-paced, uniquely Ugandan discipline that has rapidly evolved from a traditional backyard pastime into a professionally structured sport.

The games were hosted in partnership with the Uganda Secondary School Sports Association (USSSA) , with Seroma Christian High School serving as the main tournament host. Additional support came from Cheza and the World Dodgeball Federation, underscoring the growing international recognition of this dynamic sport.

Champions Crowned

After three days of intense competition, Moyo Star High School from Northern Uganda emerged as the inaugural ChezaDodge Champions, demonstrating exceptional skill, strategy, and teamwork. St. Andrews SS Rubindi from Western Uganda secured second place, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined the tournament.

The ChezaDodge format featured four rounds of play, combining point-based scoring in the first two rounds with the challenging “seven stones” elimination rounds in the latter half a unique twist that tests both agility and tactical thinking .

A Groundbreaking Moment for Female Sports Participation

Perhaps the most inspiring highlight of the games was the remarkable female involvement. An extraordinary 90% of participants in the ChezaDodge discipline were girls a testament to the sport’s accessibility and appeal. This achievement aligns with the sport’s roots, as Kwepena has traditionally been played by girls and young women in communities across Uganda .

The high level of female participation at the national level demonstrates how ChezaDodge is not only preserving cultural heritage but also creating meaningful opportunities for young women in sports.

A Sport on the Rise

ChezaDodge represents a modernized, structured version of Okwepena—a traditional game that has been played in Ugandan communities for generations . By introducing formal rules, court designs, and scoring systems, the Cheza Association has elevated the sport to compete alongside more established disciplines while maintaining its cultural authenticity .

The successful introduction of ChezaDodge into the USSSA National Ball Games marks a significant step forward for the sport’s development. As the Cheza Association continues its mission to unearth the life-changing potential of Kwepena and traditional games, this tournament stands as proof that African sports can thrive on both local and international stages.

Congratulations to all participating schools, athletes, and organizers for making the 2026 ChezaDodge tournament a resounding success. The future of this sport looks brighter than ever.

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