Discipline will defend our title - Chelangat to Kabaddi team

The National Council of Sports (NCS) Assistant General Secretary for Technical Matters, Sarah Chelangat, has called upon the Uganda Women’s Kabaddi Team (The Gladiators) to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship, discipline, and unity as they prepare to defend their title at this year’s Africa Kabaddi Championship in Kenya.

Standing in for NCS General Secretary Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, who was engaged in other national duties, Chelangat officially flagged off the team at a send-off ceremony ahead of their departure to Kasarani, Nairobi.

As the defending champions, Uganda carries high expectations, and Chelangat rallied the team with an inspiring speech, reminding them that they are not just athletes but ambassadors of the nation.

"You carry the Ugandan flag with pride—the entire nation is behind you. Maintain maximum discipline, stay focused, and remain united. Success is already yours; go and claim it in the mighty name of Jesus!" she declared.

Team Captain Confident of Victory

Team captain Olivia Nalubega assured Ugandans that the squad is fully prepared and determined to retain the trophy.

"We have trained hard, analyzed our opponents, and fine-tuned our strategies. Everything is set—we are just waiting for the whistle to blow," Nalubega stated confidently.

Tournament Format and Expectations

Ten nations—Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Zanzibar, Zambia, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and Ghana—will compete in the championship, which runs from April 5-7 in Nairobi.

Head coach Ephraim Makubuya revealed that his squad comprises players selected from various schools, all hungry for victory. Uganda won last year’s title after defeating Zanzibar (34-18) in the finals held in Kampala.

"The teams will be divided into two groups, with the top four from each advancing to the quarterfinals, then semifinals, and ultimately the finals. We are optimistic about Uganda’s chances," Makubuya confirmed.

With high morale and meticulous preparation, The Gladiators are poised to make Uganda proud once again.