Uta Wayu Sports Academy (UWSA) is the evolution and expansion of the Uta Wayu Soccer Team, founded in 2002.

For nearly 24 years, Uta Wayu Soccer has been a cornerstone of the Oromo community—especially among families from the Rift Valley of Oromia—serving as a symbol of unity, identity, and pride.

Soccer has always been more than a sport; it is a global passion and an important gathering point for communities. For the Oromo community in North America, events like the Oromo Sports Federation in North America Tournament bring families, friends, and generations together to celebrate sport, culture, and community.

Over the years, former players and supporters expressed concern about the team’s decline, largely due to reduced youth involvement and the absence of formal leadership. This highlighted the urgent need to develop young players, ensure leadership continuity, and create a sustainable future for Uta Wayu Soccer.

Our Response

To address these needs—and recognizing that many of our children were born and raised in the United States—UWSA expanded beyond adult soccer. Today, we offer youth programs that allow young athletes to participate according to their age level, develop their skills, and eventually transition into adult teams. This structured pathway preserves our legacy while empowering the next generation.

In 2024, Uta Wayu Basketball was founded by Minnesota-born youth, reflecting the growing community demand for diverse athletic opportunities.

UWSA provides structured, positive activities that keep youth active, engaged, and productive as they transition into adulthood. While sports remain central to our mission, UWSA also addresses broader community needs, including: Mental health support, Depression awareness, Substance addiction prevention, and etc. These programs support both youth and adults in building healthier and stronger communities.

Mission Statement

To foster community cohesion and individual empowerment through sport. UWSA delivers comprehensive athletic programs and holistic development opportunities that emphasize leadership, teamwork, and total wellness. We support youth mental health and promote depression awareness for adults, creating safe spaces for personal growth. A key focus is developing youth soccer, basketball, and volleyball players to compete in the Oromo Sports Federation in North America Tournament. Through this pathway, UWSA helps bridge the talent gap for Uta Wayu senior teams while ensuring a sustainable legacy of excellence and community pride.

Vision Statement

To connect and transform communities through the power of sport. We envision a future where athletes of all ages reach their full potential within a culture that prioritizes mental and emotional resilience. UWSA aims to become a premier pipeline for nurturing responsible leaders and elite African athletes—specializing in soccer and basketball—capable of competing in the Oromo Sports Federation in North America Tournament, major U.S. leagues, and on the global stage.