Haniisha on the brink of becoming Uganda's first professional defender

Switching seamlessly between goal defending and goal shooting, Haniisha Muhammeed has captured the attention of numerous foreign coaches and is poised to become Uganda's pioneering professional defender.

The shortage of accomplished defenders is a prevailing issue not only for Ugandan clubs but also for teams across the globe.

The global netball community converged at the World Cup in Cape Town, utilising the event as a prime opportunity to scout for the finest talents in the sport.

Fred Mugerwa, the head coach of the She Cranes has mastered the art of tactical flexibility. Most of his players adeptly occupy multiple positions within the team. This versatile approach has also been instilled in Muhameed, empowering her to excel both as a goalkeeper and a goal shooter. It's this versatility that has set her apart as an extraordinary asset on the team.

Throughout the tournament, two matches stand out as Haniisha's most exceptional performances.

In Uganda's opening match of the 2023 Netball World Cup against Singapore, Muhammeed stepped into the role of a shooter. Out of the 79 goals netted by the She Cranes in a 79:37 victory, Haniisha contributed a notable 31 goals to the scoreline.

As the tournament in Cape Town drew to a close, a multitude of coaches expressed keen interest in securing her talents for their respective teams.

Reflecting on her aspirations, Haniisha expressed, "Achieving professional status would undoubtedly mark a pinnacle moment of the 2023 Netball World Cup for me. I came here to showcase my abilities, and the signs are promising that my efforts will be rewarded."

Her height and visibility have undeniably garnered attention, adding to the allure of potential suitors.

Currently, playing for KCCA at a club level, should she sign with a professional Club, her addition could potentially disrupt NIC's prevailing dominance at the professional level. Presently, Uganda boasts three professional players hailing from NIC Netball Club.

"Muhameed entered this tournament with a clear vision," Mugerwa commented, further emphasizing, "They utilized the platform exceptionally well. Her transition to the professional realm would be a moment of immense national pride."

Inching closer to making history as Uganda's first professional defender, Haniisha Muhammeed's journey demonstrates dedication, skill, and the promise of a bright future in the world of netball.