Netball Uganda prioritizes national team development

Developing structures to strengthen national teams is a top priority for Netball Uganda under the leadership of president Jocelyn Ucanda.

Treasurer Yusuf Kamulegeya, who represented Ucanda at the closing ceremony, highlighted this goal before presenting trophies to the winning teams.

National Insurance Corporation (NIC) claimed victory in the club category, St. Noa Secondary School triumphed in the schools category, Uganda Christian University (UCU) won the university category, and Kampala University emerged victorious in the men’s category.

Sarah Nkonge (C) joins her team to celebrate winning the men's trophy. PHOTO: Johnson Were

“We are thrilled to have successfully kicked off our calendar. This year’s national rally saw an increase in participation, with more teams competing compared to previous editions. We extend our gratitude to all the teams that participated,” Kamulegeya said.

He added, “The tournament showcased the immense talent within Ugandan netball. Under the leadership of President Jocelyn Ucanda, we are committed to establishing robust structures to elevate the sport to greater heights.”

Dilaayah Nabbowa (Green) of Kitende challenged by St. Noa player. PHOTO: Johnson Were

In the schools category, St. Noa Secondary School edged out Budo Secondary School 21-20 in a tightly contested final. The win was particularly sweet for St. Noa, who avenged their 22-23 loss to Budo in the group stages on Friday. On their way to the final, St. Noa defeated St. Mary’s Secondary School Kitende 28-22, while Budo overcame St. Noa A 20-14.

In the club category, National Insurance Corporation (NIC) were crowned champions of the National Netball Rally for the sixth consecutive time. NIC dominated the seven-team tournament, remaining unbeaten throughout. They secured victories over Police (23-14), KCCA (21-15), and Alisha Netball Club (30-09) in the round-robin format. On the opening day of the tournament, they also defeated hosts Busia Lions (31-09), KCCA (21-15), and UPDF (28-11).

NIC's Florence Nanyonga was instrumental in their 21-15 win over KCCA. PHOTO: Johnson Were

NIC coach Rashid Mubiru noted that the tournament helped identify areas for improvement ahead of the league season, which begins next month.

In the institutions category, Uganda Christian University (UCU) emerged victorious, winning all three of their matches in the round-robin format. They defeated Makerere University 26-15 and Ndejje University 28-09, finishing with a perfect six points.