Makerere Impis: From Relegation to Premiership Contention at the 'Graveyard'

The Makerere Impis rugby club, once facing the brink of extinction after relegation in 2024, has found a new lease on life. Nicknamed the ‘Graveyard’ due to their home ground at Makerere University, the club endured a tough period that saw them drop to the Central Regional Championship. Their return to the Premiership this season has been nothing short of sensational.

Under the guidance of coach Alvin Nkamba, who previously enjoyed success with St. Mary’s College Kisubi, the Impis implemented a structural rebuild. Nkamba focused on nurturing talent from local schools, creating a stronger pipeline of players who already shared a bond from their school rugby days. This strategy proved effective, as the team went unbeaten in the Central Championship and secured all three promotional playoff games to earn their spot back in the top flight.

This season, the Impis have continued to impress. They began with a dominant win over Warriors and followed it up with a historic victory against former champions Heathens. Currently, they sit as semifinalists, a testament to their improved performance and team cohesion.

A significant factor in their success is the outstanding individual contribution of skipper Darren Aine. He has become the season’s standout player, amassing a record 131 points in his debut Premiership campaign, the highest ever recorded. Aine’s leadership, athleticism, and crucial penalty kicks have been pivotal in critical matches, including a remarkable comeback win against Kobs in the quarterfinals.

Despite facing mid-season setbacks, the Impis have shown resilience, culminating in an astonishing aggregate victory over Kobs in the playoffs. They now prepare to face Toyota Buffaloes in the semifinal, a stage few predicted they would reach. The ‘Graveyard’ is proving to be a place of resurrection for this determined team.