Bookmakers Melbet have agreed on a one year deal to sponsor Uganda Premier League side Soltilo Bright Stars in the 2022/23 season.
The development comes less than a week after Melbet was unveiled by Express fc as their new season sponsor.
Similar to their deal with Express fc, Melbet will appear on the back top of the Bright Stars’ Jersey which Country Manager Andrew Kamwesigye explains as their choice to let the teams acquire other sponsors.
“It is our choice to appear at the back of the jersey because we don’t have any monetary intentions in our support to Bright Stars. So we are leaving room for sponsors with monetary attachments to occupy the front side of the jersey.” He explained.
According to Andrew, Team Jerseys are expensive and this in a way kills the fans’ intentions to display the passion they have for their clubs. So as part of the deal, Melbet will aid the production of the fans’ replica jersey, match-day kits and training wear.
Though the money to be invested by Melbet remains a mystery to the public, Sales Manager Nassuna Teopista assured Bright Stars of a lasting partnership at a press briefing.
“Since it’s a marriage, I wouldn’t want to disclose everything that we have in the house but we are here to stay though our contract for now is only a year for the season 2022/23.” Teopista said.
Soltilo Bright Stars’ club Director Harold Atukwase noted that its not easy for clubs that aren’t institutional affiliated to survive for long in Uganda’s top flight football league.
“Our marriage with Melbet is monumental because we make 25 years this year as a football club, and 10 years in the Uganda Premier League. I would like to thank Melbet in a special way for holding our hand. The financial way comes timely and it will help us boost things at the club.” He said.
“I would like to make a commitment to Melbet, the fans and the football community in Uganda and else where that we will continue to grow, improve and shine.” He added.
The technical bench at Bright Stars as well acknowledged the sponsorship from Melbet, through their Technical Director Ian Mutenda.
“For a number of years now, what we have done as Bright Stars is to try and run the club effeciently as much as possible amidst competition with clubs that have higher budgets than we do.” He said.
Adding on that; “From the choices we make in acquisitions, partners we bring on board and how we recruit young players who we can nurture and move them onto the next level.”
“About our position on the table, we don’t look downwards. We are only looking upwards and I can assure you we shall be competing in the right end of the table.”
Last season Bright Stars finished 11th on a table of 16 with 36 points, 38 behind Vipers SC who made 74 to lift the 2021/22 title.
Melbet say they have chosen Bright Stars because it has a positive impact on society that includes a number of community outreach programs like talent development and community wellness in Refugee settlements in the country and slum communities in the city.
