Netball Uganda unveils ambitious plan to build a world class court

Netball Uganda, in partnership with the Grass to Gold Foundation, has unveiled plans to construct a world-class netball court in Kampala, a landmark project aimed at providing the national teams with a permanent home and further elevating Uganda's status as one of Africa's leading netball nations.

The federation announced that it has partnered with the Australia-based Grass to Gold Foundation to bring the long-awaited dream closer to reality.

While details of the project will be officially unveiled when representatives from the foundation visit Uganda, Netball Uganda together with Grass to Gold Foundation has already identified a suitable site within the city.

Speaking about the initiative, Netball Uganda President Jocelyn Ucanda said the federation has maintained a strong working relationship with Grass to Gold and believes the project will transform the sport by providing a dedicated facility for training, competitions and talent development.

"It is important for every federation to have a home," Ucanda noted. "At the moment, we rely on the Lugogo Indoor Stadium, but it is difficult because we do not own the facility. Training schedules have to be booked almost a year in advance, and even then, we have to share the venue with other sports."

The proposed facility is expected to become the permanent home of the national team, the She Cranes, who have consistently raised Uganda's profile on the international stage through impressive performances at the Netball World Cup, Commonwealth Games and other major competitions.

Ucanda believes having a dedicated, internationally accredited court will allow Uganda to host regional and international tournaments while attracting visiting national teams for training camps and friendly matches.

"It will be a great achievement for the She Cranes, who have represented this country with distinction, to finally have a home. We shall also be able to invite other nations because we shall have a court that meets international standards," Ucanda added.

Beyond improving elite competition, the project is expected to strengthen grassroots development by creating a modern environment where young players can nurture their talents and aspire to represent the country.

Grass to Gold Foundation, co-founded by Australian Chris Devling and Ugandan Paul Mugambwa, and is dedicated to empowering communities by expanding opportunities for young women through education and sport.

The organisation believes that access to quality education and increased participation in sport are two fundamental pillars for building healthier, stronger and more prosperous communities.

The facility will mark a historic milestone for Ugandan netball, ending years of dependence on shared venues.