Vipers Sports Club has officially announced the appointment of John Luyinda, popularly known as ‘Ayala’, as the new head coach of the first team.

Luyinda steps into the hot seat with an extensive understanding of the club’s DNA, structural expectations, and winning culture, having served the Venoms across multiple coaching stints over the past decade.

Ayala’s promotion to the helm of the club comes on the back of immense domestic success as an assistant and tactical anchor. His recent track record with the Venoms cements his status as a trusted pair of hands capable of delivering silverware.

Last season, Luyinda served as assistant to Ivan Minnaert, successfully guiding Vipers SC to yet another Uganda Premier League title but his greatest achievement was in 2025 when, alongside current Uganda Cranes assistant coach Fred Muhumuza won a historic domestic double, capturing both the Uganda Premier League and the Uganda Cup.

At Vipers, Ayala has previously served as assistant to Nikola Kavazovic in 2024, co-coached the squad with Fred Muhumuza, assisted Denis Lavagne, and originally served under Abdallah Mubiru at the club back in 2016.

Outside of Kitende, Ayala has honed his coaching craft in vital roles at Wakiso Giants FC, KCCA FC, and Police FC.