Denis Onyango Inspires UPPC FC: “Football is Your Profession, Not a Hobby”
Entebbe, 10th September 2025: Uganda Cranes legend Denis Onyango, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most decorated goalkeepers, delivered a powerful message of belief and discipline during his visit to UPPC FC at the Uganda Printing and Publishing Corporation (UPPC) Head Office in Entebbe.
Onyango, who has enjoyed a glittering career with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns—winning multiple league titles and the CAF Champions League—urged the squad to treat football with seriousness and professionalism if they are to achieve success at the top level. “Every victory begins with self-belief. If you doubt yourself, you’ve already lost before stepping onto the pitch,” Onyango told the players, stressing that football must be approached as a career, not a hobby.
During his address, Onyango shared nine (09) lessons that shaped his journey to the peak of African club football. He reminded the squad that promotion to the Uganda Premier League was only the beginning, encouraging them to aim higher by turning Entebbe into a fortress and even challenging them to compete for the league title in their debut season.
“Play for more than today, play for history,” he said. “Put performance first. The rewards will always follow consistent excellence.” The players listened with keen attention, drawing inspiration from a man who had lived the highs and lows of professional football.
Following Onyango’s remarks, Joseph Opio, the UPPC FC President, echoed the legend’s call for ambition, declaring that the club would not settle for merely competing in the Uganda Premier League. “We must aim higher. Our target is to win the league, nothing less,” he said, urging the players to remain united and hungry as they embark on this new chapter.
Senior player Mustafa Mujuzi described the moment as a turning point for the squad. “With the legend’s words in our hearts and the president’s belief in us, we must push beyond limits and fight for greatness,” he said.
UPPC FC’s rise to the top flight has already been marked by determination and resilience. With Onyango’s mentorship and strong backing from the club leadership, the team now stands on the cusp of a new era, determined to transform Entebbe into a fortress and write its name in Ugandan football history.