Special appreciation was given to the main sponsor, Andy Harrington, who has consistently supported the promotion of youth sports.
Fair Play Tournament, which concluded on June 15, 2025, were urged to enjoy playing football but always prioritize their education, as it is the foundation of a successful future. After receiving words of encouragement and guidance, the students expressed their readiness to implement them for a brighter tomorrow.
The final matches of the Fair Play Tournament took place on Sunday, June 15, 2025, in Bigogwe Sector, Nyabihu District. The tournament brought together students from various schools across Rubavu and Nyabihu Districts. Participants were reminded that while playing football is beneficial, it should never overshadow their academic responsibilities, which are key to ensuring a promising future.
During the event, Ladislas Yassin Nkundabanyanga, Director of Youth For Human Rights International and the main organizer of the Fair Play Tournament, addressed the youth, saying:
“You are the Rwanda of tomorrow. You will lead everything you see around you. But that future will only be secure if you remember that your primary responsibility is your education. Give it your full commitment.”
He emphasized:“I encourage you to keep playing sports because it strengthens both the body and mind, but never forget that studying should be your top priority. While some may succeed in football, if they lack education, life can become difficult once they leave the game.”
Nkundabanyanga also noted that some athletes get opportunities to travel abroad, which can be life-changing if they have valued their education, especially language skills. However, he warned that others struggle to adapt in foreign countries due to language barriers and may even return home prematurely. He stressed that some end up with difficult lives later on because they neglected their studies.
Nyabihu District Mayor, Mukandayisenga Antoinette, who also attended the finals, reminded the students to focus on their studies and think about their future:
“First, I want to thank you all for participating in this great event. We’ve enjoyed the matches and learned from the different speakers. The goal of this tournament was not just about winning. If you look closely, the difference between first and second place is often minimal — all participants who reached this level are winners.”
She further advised the youth to avoid drugs and harmful behaviors that could derail their future: “We must be vigilant and avoid drug abuse, which harms mental development and destroys future opportunities. It is hard for someone involved in drugs to think clearly, respect teachers, parents, or peers. Remember, a tree is shaped while it is still young.”
After the final matches, awards were given. In the girls’ category, G.S. St. Raphael emerged victorious, while in the boys’ category, G.S. Rega Catholic took home the trophy. This year’s tournament was dominated by schools from Nyabihu District, with G.S. Busasamana and G.S. Nyakiliba from Rubavu District being eliminated in the final rounds.
Special appreciation was given to the main sponsor, Andy Harrington, who has consistently supported the promotion of youth sports.
School leaders and other attendees called for the tournament to continue annually, recognizing its value in promoting discipline, education, and talent development among students.
