End of an Era: Ex-SC Villa, URA FC forward calls time on career

Kipson Atuhaire during his time at SC. Photo by Daily Monitor.

After a remarkable career spanning over a decade, multiple continents and countless memories, former SC Villa forward Kipson Atuhaire has announced his retirement from the beautiful game, he confirmed this in an official letter.

"I am officially announcing my retirement from professional football. The Beautiful Game Gave Me Everything From humble beginnings in Uganda with SC Villa and URA FC, Wakiso Giants FC, my journey took me to new heights with APR FC, AS Kigali, Police FC, and Musanze FC in Rwanda.

I was later fortunate to expand my horizons, donning the colors of Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC, NagaWorld FC, Solitilo Angkor FC, Koh Kong FC, and Life FC in Cambodia, before joining UKM FC in Malaysia, New Radiant SC in the Maldives, and Gokulam Kerala FC in India. Each club, city, and country offered its own unique chapter, and I’m deeply grateful for every opportunity.

Silverware, Success and So Much More

This journey wasn’t just about goals or appearances, it was about purpose, growth, and pride. Some of the most treasured highlights include: 2 Rwanda Premier League titles and 2 Peace Cups with APR FC Super 8 Cup triumph with URA FC Hun Sen Cup glory with Svay Rieng in Cambodia League Cup success with New Radiant SC in the Maldives And the personal honor of finishing as Top Scorer and Golden Boot winner in multiple competitions

These moments, big and small, shaped me not just as a footballer but as a man. Representing Rwanda—My Greatest Honor Wearing the Amavubi jersey and stepping onto the pitch for the Rwanda National Team remains the pinnacle of my football life. Singing the anthem, playing for the badge, and feeling the pride of a nation is something I’ll carry with me forever.

To Everyone Who Made It Possible—Thank You To my teammates, coaches, fans, friends, and family you were the fuel behind my fire. The cheers, the chants, the challenges, and the support all combined to make this journey unforgettable.

As I now step into the next phase of my life, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, pride, and peace. Football has given me memories that will last a lifetime and I hope I gave the game just as much love in return. It’s not goodbye, just a new beginning.