From Bloemfontein Celtic to SC Villa’s future: Former Uganda custodian Ochan set to begin coaching journey

Former Uganda Cranes goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan is taking the next step in his football journey after hanging up his gloves, with a move into youth development at SC Villa.

According to Kawowo Sports, the ex-shot stopper, who once plied his trade in South Africa with Bloemfontein Celtic, is set to join Villa’s youth and reserve setup as a goalkeeping coach on recommendation of renowned football agent Ivika Stankovic who is currently operating in Uganda with SC Villa.

Former @UgandaCranes goalkeeper Benjamin Ochan is set to join the @SCVillaJogoo youth coaching staff following his retirement from football in January this year.#KawowoUpdates | @IsmaelKiyongahttps://t.co/F9je0f3Qso

— Kawowo Sports (@KawowoSports) March 24, 2026

His appointment aligns with the club’s renewed focus on nurturing young talent under the leadership of Nebojsa Kapoor, recently named head of youth and reserve teams.

Ochan’s return to Villa marks a full-circle moment, having previously featured for the record league champions during the 2011/12 season under coach Mike Mutebi.

His experience at the top level is expected to play a key role in shaping the next generation of goalkeepers at the club.

Beyond Villa, Ochan built a diverse playing career across the region. He had stints at KCCA FC where he enjoyed significant success, AFC Leopards in Kenya and in Zambia with Kabwe Warriors.

He also featured for the now-defunct SC Victoria University and NEC FC, where he finished up his playing career.

During his time at KCCA, Ochan lifted two Uganda Premier League titles (2015/16 and 2016/17), the Uganda Cup (2016/17), and was part of the squad that won the 2014 CECAFA Nile Basin Cup with Victoria University.

On the international stage, Ochan earned 17 caps for Uganda and represented the country at the African Nations Championship tournaments in 2014 and 2018.

Even in retirement, he remains actively involved in football development, currently serving on the organising committee overseeing the pilot FUFA Academies League in the Buganda and Kampala regions, further underlining his commitment to shaping the future of the game.