By David Mwanje
Kampala buzzed with excitement as Kevin Makmot, the mastermind behind the Victoria Sharks’ success, was named head coach of the Uganda All Stars to face Ireland’s BlackRock Rugby Club on August 16, 2025. Announced on X, this marks a defining moment for Makmot, whose journey from a gritty Rugby Cranes scrumhalf to a visionary coach makes him ideal to lead this historic friendly.
As a player, Makmot shone in the Elgon Cup and Africa Cup, known for quick decisions and fearless tackles. His 18-year coaching career, starting with the U18 national team in 2003, includes elevating the Sharks to back to back domestic titles with a fast-paced, tenacious style. His youth program turned rural talent into stars, and a stunning upset against a South African side, celebrated on X, sealed his reputation.
The August 16 clash in Kampala against BlackRock, a disciplined Irish side with strong forwards and a creative backline, is a chance for Uganda to shine. Makmot, unfazed, said, “BlackRock should expect a tough game” (@Joseph_Maaniii). His Sharks-honed strategy high-tempo play and aggressive defense will likely exploit Uganda’s athleticism. X fans, like @TackleTalk, predict, “Makmot’s Sharks speed will hit BlackRock hard!”
The All Stars, led by dynamic captain Michael Wokorach, include stars like prop Santos Ssenteza, flanker Byron Oketayot, number eight Pius Ogena, back Philip Wokorach, 7s star Ian Munyani, and scrumhalf Aaron Ofoyrwoth. Makmot may add young Sharks talents, using his youth development expertise to unify the squad in three weeks.
X erupted with support for Makmot’s appointment. @RugbyFanUG hailed his Sharks legacy, and @IvanTheRugbyGuy called the South African upset “iconic.” While @SkepticSportz questioned his readiness for international pressure, optimism dominates with #UGAllStarsVsIrishBlackRock trending.
Makmot embraced the buzz: “The Sharks taught me hard work and spirit. This is Uganda’s moment” (@anitarkanya).
As the match nears, Makmot’s journey—from scrumhalf to Sharks architect to All Stars coach sets the stage for a legacy. Leading Wokorach and a talented squad, he’s not just chasing a win but inspiring a nation, with every training session and X post fueling anticipation for a clash that could elevate Ugandan rugby globally.
