A dichotomy in Uganda currently exists with eager and talented students amongst its universities who are interested in bridge, but little current bridge infrastructure. Working with local students and organizers as well as U.S based mentors and experts, we have designed a comprehensive curriculum and in-person teaching plan that launches this summer across Ugandan Universities for players of various skill levels.

I had the privilege of traveling to Entebbe, Uganda with an American team for the World University Games two years ago. The enthusiasm for bridge among the Ugandans was incredible. They have very little access to bridge instruction and supplies, not to mention the ability to compete against players from other nations. We hope to change all of that.

Within not just the process of building a long-lasting bridge community but also the fundamental reason people play any game, tournaments are central and this is especially true for bridge tournaments. Their existence as the testing ground where preparation meets the best competition, combined with that unique communal yet competitive atmosphere where strangers can become friends over a shared hand makes attending them a unique life experience. There is really no substitute for that. It is, in many ways, the reason people fall in love with bridge in the first place.

We are asking for your support here to bring that experience to Ugandan university students. We are planning to hold team trials amongst program participants and select one 6-person team to send to this year's World Youth Transnational Tournament in Hefei, China from August 3-8. For most of these students, this would be the farthest they have every traveled.

Your support will go directly toward funding this trip and making it accessible for the team. We hope that by providing a unique and memorable experience, a long-lasting and meaningful bridge community can be built in Uganda.

If you are someone who remembers the first time you stepped foot into the crowded tournament setting of an NABC, late night bridge discussions with your partner, or dissecting a board over bad coffee, please consider donating.