Classes kicked off early this August as NRG Radio was, both literally and metaphorically, taken to school during their defeat at the hands of the International University of East Africa on August 23rd, 2024. Our August intake began with some spirited football matches against our longtime collaborators. After a successful game against Galaxy FM on August 10th, we at IUEA were excited to take on NRG Radio. While we anticipated a challenging match, we were surprised by the outcome. This blog is sure to bring a smile to your face, with a light-hearted recount of the day’s events.
Who is NRG Radio?
If you’re unfamiliar, NRG Radio is a popular urban youth station in Uganda. While they may not have shown their best form on the pitch, their contributions to the radio industry are noteworthy. Running a radio station doesn’t exactly require athletic prowess, and in that arena, NRG certainly excels. Our last collaboration with them, during international icon Davido’s welcome event, was a great success, so we encourage you to check it out.
Where Did the Match Take Place?
The match was held on IUEA’s state-of-the-art AstroTurf pitch, a modern facility that reflects our commitment to innovation and sustainability. The pitch is not just a place to play; it’s an experience in itself, featuring eco-friendly, solar-powered lights that allow for evening games with minimal environmental impact.
The vibrant green AstroTurf provided the perfect stage for this exciting encounter, and the netting around the pitch kept the ball in play, ensuring a fast-paced, uninterrupted match. While this setup may have added to the pressure on NRG Radio, it also gave them a first-hand look at the top-tier facilities that IUEA students enjoy regularly. The AstroTurf, with its bright, inviting surface, highlighted the game’s energy and added a touch of flair to the proceedings.
Who Showed Up?
The IUEA family was out in full force, with representatives from various departments, including marketing, accounts, the faculty of engineering, and even top management. This diverse lineup demonstrated the deep well of talent and enthusiasm that runs throughout our institution. Each department brought its own unique flair to the game, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that is emblematic of IUEA’s culture. From seasoned players to enthusiastic first-timers, everyone on the IUEA team contributed to the day’s success, proving that excellence at IUEA is not limited to the classroom.
NRG Radio, while perhaps not at its athletic peak, showed up in style. They came dressed for the occasion in crisp white and red jerseys that harmonized with our own white and maroon—creating a visually striking match. Although the outcome wasn’t in their favour, NRG Radio’s team approached the game with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, which made the event enjoyable for everyone involved. It was clear that both teams were in it for the fun and the opportunity to bond outside of their usual environments.
How Did the Game Unfold?
The atmosphere was electric, with music pumping through the speakers and adding to the excitement. From the very first whistle, it was clear that the game would be an intense contest of skill, strategy, and stamina. IUEA’s coach, Hassan Wasswa Mawanda, a former Uganda Cranes player, wasted no time in setting the tone for the match. With a swift and decisive strike, he scored the first goal, sending the crowd into a frenzy. His experience and leadership were evident throughout the game, guiding the IUEA team to maintain their composure and play with purpose.
NRG Radio’s DJ Robin Kiss managed to score their first goal of the match, giving the station a brief moment of hope. His goal was met with cheers from both sides, as everyone appreciated the effort and determination it took to break through IUEA’s formidable defence. However, as the game progressed, IUEA’s superiority became increasingly apparent. With precise passing, coordinated attacks, and a solid defence, the IUEA team gradually extended their lead, eventually securing a 6:2 victory.
This result mirrored our previous 5:2 win against Galaxy FM, suggesting that IUEA’s team is on quite a roll. The back-to-back victories have boosted morale across the campus, with students and staff alike eagerly anticipating the next challenge. While the games are meant to be friendly and fun, they also serve as a reminder of the importance of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship—values that are deeply ingrained in the IUEA community.
What Did NRG Say?
After the match, the NRG team, ever-good sports, took their loss in stride. They acknowledged IUEA’s superior performance with grace and humour, embodying the true spirit of friendly competition. Some members of the NRG team jokingly cited less-than-ideal preparation, with a few even playfully blaming their performance on lingering hangovers.
Mr. Dangote, a representative from NRG, humorously commented, “They have big legs but can’t kick,” capturing the lighthearted nature of the event. His words were met with laughter from both teams, highlighting the camaraderie that had developed over the day.
Despite the loss, NRG’s team left with their heads held high, ready to regroup and come back stronger next time. They expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage with IUEA in a different context and looked forward to future collaborations, both on and off the pitch.
For those who missed this exciting match, there are plenty more on the horizon as we prepare to take on other media houses and organisations. The friendly matches are becoming a much-anticipated tradition at IUEA, offering a chance for staff and partners to connect, compete, and create lasting memories. Make sure to keep an eye on our social media channels so you don’t miss out on the next thrilling chapter! Whether it’s on the football field or in the classroom, IUEA is always ready to rise to the challenge.
