Goalkeeper Rejects Ugandan Throne to Keep FA Cup Dream Alive

Royalty or Football?

George Desmond Kamurasi, the goalkeeper for ninth tier club SE Dons, had a massive decision to make. He was in line to become the king of a traditional Ugandan kingdom. Instead of taking the throne, he decided to stay in England to focus on his team's historic FA Cup run.

Kamurasi became the preferred choice to lead the Tooro people following the death of his cousin, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. A royal committee consisting of 21 people selected the goalkeeper for the role. However, Kamurasi turned down the opportunity. Committee member Fr Dr Charles Oyo confirmed that the first candidate declined due to other responsibilities.

Honouring His Cousin

The goalkeeper, known to fans as Big G, explained his choice. He said he spoke with his family and decided to honour his late cousin through football.

"I have respectfully spoken about this to members of my family and we're respecting this FA Cup run in line with the loss of my cousin, he passed away," Kamurasi said. He added that he returned to the UK to run the club and honour his cousin's name by winning and showing passion.

The decision is paying off on the pitch. SE Dons are on the verge of reaching the FA Cup first round proper. They recently defeated Weymouth 5-1 in the third qualifying round. Next, they will play Sholing to try and secure their spot in the first round.

From Sunday League to Social Media Stars

SE Dons started out as a Sunday league team but have grown into social media sensations. Founded by rapper Don Strapzy, the club broadcasts matches on its YouTube channel. The channel now has over 250,000 subscribers.

Kamurasi has helped the club gain a large following in Uganda. The goalkeeper, who uses the catchphrase "Six foot six and Ugandan," has never hidden his desire to represent his country on the international stage.

With Uganda's current captain and goalkeeper being 41 years old, Kamurasi hopes his performances will earn him a call up. He hopes that the international call up can actually come soon.