26 September 2025
From the Field to the Classroom Reagan Ochan’s Legacy of Leadership
At DBA Africa, our mission is built on the pillars of integrity and local leadership. We believe in empowering young athletes not just to succeed in sport, but to become leaders who uplift their communities. There is no better example of this philosophy than Reagan Ochan, a remarkable Ugandan lacrosse player whose journey embodies the very spirit of our work.
Reagan earned a coveted spot at Nassau University in the United States. Today, he is thriving, balancing the rigorous demands of academics and athletics with remarkable dedication. “School's going well, and I'm managing everything,” Reagan shares. “It still demands a lot of effort, but I am dedicated. If all goes well, I should graduate this coming spring, which is super exciting!”
While his time playing for the university has come to a close, as he has completed his two years of eligibility, Reagan’s commitment to his team and his sport remains unwavering. He continues to be a vital presence, lending his experience and mentorship as a coach. This transition from player to coach is a testament to his character, demonstrating a commitment to giving back that extends far beyond the field. He does this through the DBA Uganda Lacrosse programme.
A Dream with a Purpose: The RO16 Foundation
Reagan's desire to pay it forward didn't stop with coaching. His journey to America was a dream come true, but it also inspired a deeper purpose. "I felt a need for purpose," he says. "I wanted to thank everyone who helped me... That's when the idea of the RO16 foundation emerged, and it turned out to be the best decision ever."
The RO16 Foundation, co-founded with Kevin, is a powerful expression of his gratitude and integrity. The foundation is dedicated to transforming lives and creating a positive impact in Ugandan communities, with a specific focus on empowering women and children. Its initiatives are both practical and profound: providing scholastic materials to young DBA lacrosse players and offering essential supplies like sanitary pads to girls, enabling them to pursue their dreams whilst in scholar on the lacrosse pitch.
Looking to the future, Reagan and Kevin have set an ambitious goal: to create a sustainable lacrosse farm in Uganda. This innovative project will not only serve as a dedicated space for the sport but also provide vital employment and food resources for players and their families. It is a vision that beautifully merges his passion for lacrosse with a deep-seated commitment to community development.
The DBA Africa Difference
Reagan's story is a powerful reflection of DBA Africa's core values. He took the opportunity given to him and, with incredible integrity and dedication, has transformed it into a vehicle for positive change. He is not just an athlete who found success abroad; he is a local leader who is actively building a better future for those who will follow in his footsteps. His journey inspires us all, reminding us that true success is found not just in achieving our dreams, but in using them to lift others up.