Kayongo optimistic as Uganda Woodball team intensifies World Cup preparations
Uganda has a proud history in the competition, having won silver in the overall team performance and gold for the women's team at the 2018 World Cup held in Thailand.
Uganda Woodball Federation President Paul Mark Kayongo addresses the national team during their World Cup training camp in Bunjako on Sunday. Looking on (right) is UWBF official John Lubowa. PHOTO: Johnson Were
Uganda Woodball Federation president Paul Mark Kayongo is thrilled with the mood, attitude, and spirit of the national team in camp as they finalise preparations for the 10th Woodball World Cup, scheduled for July 24-30 in Malaysia.
The national team, comprising 16 players, eight men and eight women has been camping in Bunjako, Mpigi District, and Kayongo expressed his gratitude at the conclusion of the camp on Sunday, saying he is confident the team will deliver a strong performance.
Uganda has a proud history in the competition, having won silver in the overall team performance and gold for the women's team at the 2018 World Cup held in Thailand.
"I am humbled to see that the mood and attitude of every player in the camp is positive. This gives me confidence that the team will give us better results," Kayongo said.
Uganda Woodball Federation President Paul Mark Kayongo (centre) poses with the national woodball team during their World Cup training camp in Bunjako on Sunday. PHOTO: Johnson Were
He urged the players to stay focused and maintain their discipline before, during, and after the tournament. "I am proud of you. The reports I get are very encouraging. You have been disciplined and focused in the camp. Stay that way and we shall complete our mission at the World Cup," Kayongo added.
Team captain Thomas Khedi is equally encouraged by the attitude of his teammates and is convinced that the team will deliver good results in Malaysia.
The men's team comprises Daniel Apita, Samson Rugongeza, Thomas Khedi (captain), Isaac Ariho, Isaac Nabugere, David Kabugo, Brian Gwaaka, and Bridge Byamukama.
The men's woodball national team poses for a selfie during their training camp at Bunjako Beach. PHOTO: Johnson Were
The women's side features Denise Nanjeru (captain), Christine Birungi, Joyce Nalubega, Joan Mukoova, Florence Mukoya, Babirye Nalwoga, Shakira Nagudi, and Sanyu Mirembe.
Indonesia enters the tournament as the defending champion, having won the 9th edition of the World Cup in 2024, which took place in Shangyu, China. The Indonesians claimed three gold medals and two silver medals, but Uganda did not participate in that edition due to financial constraints.