KHC Swans seek continental recognition at ACCC in Egypt

Kampala Hockey Club (KHC) Swans are all set for their second appearance at the Hockey Africa Cup of Clubs Championships (ACCC) in Egypt, which kicks off on January 30 and runs through February 7 at the Suez Canal Authority Hockey Stadium. 

Under the leadership of captain Vanessa Abeja, their preparation appears solid, combining seasoned players with fresh talent, making them a team to watch.

Abeja's commitment to leading the team with determination and enthusiasm is inspiring.

“The Swans are taking this opportunity seriously, with a focus on resilience and using their past experiences to fuel their performance,” Abeja confirmed.

Their qualification for the ACCC through winning the 2023 National Hockey League and Hockey Uganda Cup shows they’re not only motivated but also in great form. It was a thrilling moment to see the National Council of Sports flag off the Swans after bankrolling them with air tickets to Egypt.

With the talent they have and that sense of history to draw from, the Swans have a lot of potential to make a strong impression. This tournament will be a turning point for them in terms of exposure and growth on the continental stage.

A team of 18 players will travel to Egypt, led by captains Abeja and Winnie Alaro and other players: Caroline Agutii, Rhemah Ahairwe, Mercy Arayo, Sarah Arinaitwe, Bridget Baine, Loretta Kansiime, Beatrice Luzuka, Charlotte Nalubega, Judith Mirembe, Eve Nabatanz, Juliana Serunjogi, Ingrid Nabayijja, Immaculate Nakku, Sandra Namusoke, Nandi Winnie Sarah, Noeline Natabo, and Joy Sserunjogi. They will be coached by Makhtum Muziransa.

Richard Kaijuka will make his continental debut as an umpire, while Albert Kimumwe will serve as a technical officer at the tournament.

The Swans are rallying behind their experienced players, with Sandra Namusoke expressing optimism about the team’s potential to excel on the continental stage. 

Namusoke, who is participating in her third tournament, reflected on her journey.

“In 2014, we were still young, but I went for the 2017 edition and now will use that experience to shine bright at this year’s edition.”

The team received crucial support from Performance Hockey, which provided sports equipment to be used during their campaign in Egypt. This gesture highlighted their unwavering commitment to the development of sports.

Sarah Chellangat, the acting assistant general secretary of NCS, urged the team to represent the country with pride and emulate the success of the men’s team in Malawi in 2023, who won bronze at the tourney. 

“As a government, we are proud to send you to Egypt to represent the nation. We believe the integration of both senior and junior players into one team will yield positive results. The confidence placed in you must be reflected in your performance,” Chellangat emphasised.