Senfuka dedicated his entire winter break to helping others in his hometown of Kampala.

KAMPALA, Uganda. – Rather than devote all his time to relaxation and family visits, Park University men’s soccer player Simon Senfuka decided to make his winter-break trip back home to Uganda even more meaningful.

With the help of head men’s soccer coach, Efrem Shimlis, his efforts changed the lives of many Ugandan youngsters. Before leaving town, Senfuka and Coach Shimlis gathered enough Pirate game jerseys, cleats and t-shirts to outfit two Ugandan youth teams.

Senfuka grew up playing in Kampala, Uganda, in the same conditions these teams compete in today and he wanted to give them something he never had.

Senfuka poses for a picture with mentor Kakembo before handing off the Park jerseys to the youth soccer teams.

While in Kampala, Senfuka reunited with his longtime friend and mentor, Ivan Kakembo. Kakembo is the director of the Uganda Youth Soccer program and has known Senfuka for many years. In addition to helping dozens of youth players develop their skills and play in other countries like the United States, Kakembo helped Senfuka find his way to the U.S. and Park University.

“Ivan inspired me to be who I am today,” Senfuka said. “If it wasn’t for Ivan, I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

The Uganda Youth Soccer program services more than 400 kids, giving them the chance to play the game of soccer while providing a program they can enjoy after school.
 

“I wanted to give back to those kids who are less fortunate,” Senfuka said. “I was just like them as a kid and I wanted them to have nice equipment. I also wanted to encourage them and give them hope to pursue their talents.”

Senfuka then took part in a scrimmage with the teams and showed them a few moves.

“I liked to see the talents they had,” he said. “They really touched me. It showed me how lucky I am to have the opportunity to play the sport I love here in the United States.”

Senfuka stayed in Kampala for approximately one month. It was a time he will never forget and he has many people to thank for all he has been given.

“I want to thank Park University and Coach Shimlis for giving me all of the apparel and equipment to give to the kids. I would also like to thank everyone that has given me the opportunity to play soccer at such a great institution.”

Senfuka will play in his third year at Park next fall. In his first two seasons he has been awarded with Region IV All-Region Honorable Mention and MCAC Second Team honors.

For information regarding Park Athletics please visit: www.parkathletics.com.

-PARK-