By James Bakama

RUGBY has never produced a winner of the prestigious utl/USPA top award.
The closest the sport came to the annual prize was in 2007 when the national side won the African title.

MTN Heathens could however re-write history on Saturday when the 2009 champion is unveiled at the USPA gala at Hotel Africana.

The Lugogo team is a strong contender having produced one of the most outstanding club performances in Uganda.

Coach Peter Magona’s side, with talents like Scot Oluoch, Robert Seguya, Brian Tabaruka and Jude Keremundu, won the league, Uganda Cup, national sevens, Hima 10s and the Super Cup.

Heathens strength in depth was underlined when they outwitted highly rated Kenyan giants Mwamba in the Hima 10s in November.

Kenya national coach Frank “Tank” Othieno summed up Heathens potential after the Mwamba defeat. “This is a side that would stretch any serious team on the IRB circuit.”

Heathens will be battling with athlete Moses Kipsiro, boxer Jackson Asiku and footballer Brian Umony for the award.

The Uganda telecom sponsored event at Hotel Africana will also have monthly winners and top performers in the respective disciplines recognized.

Former Cranes long servicing captain Jimmy Kirunda will receive the sports writers body’s legendary award in the field of football.