Omprakash, Nassanga and Oduke shine at Real Stars Awards

Africa Junior Chess Champion Sana Omprakash and netball star Shadia Nassanga were crowned Uganda’s best sports performers for December at the Fortbet Real Stars Sports Awards held at Mosquito Restaurant in Kololo.

The duo, alongside retired tennis legend John Oduke, were honoured during a colorful ceremony attended by athletes, sponsors, and sports administrators.

All three awardees expressed gratitude to the organizers and pledged to work harder for greater success.

Omprakash, who attended the event with her parents and former Uganda Chess Federation executive member Isaac Otim, said she is determined to push for bigger titles in 2026.

“I am aiming to achieve the Women Grandmaster (WGM) title this year,” she noted.

From the left is Sana Omprakash, legend John Oduke and Shadia Nassanga of netball. Photo: Silvano Kibuuka

In December, Omprakash made history by winning gold at the Africa Junior Chess Championship in Zimbabwe, becoming the first player from East Africa to claim the prestigious accolade.

She edged out 14‑year‑old Juliet Asaba and 12‑year‑old Apollo Muhumuza, who each won silver.

Nassanga enjoyed an outstanding December, helping the She Cranes finish second at the Africa Netball Championships in Malawi and guiding her club, KCCA Netball Club, to their first‑ever national league title.

“I am very excited and motivated. I will work harder to maintain my form and continue representing Uganda with the She Cranes. We have the Commonwealth Games this year and the World Cup next year,” said Nassanga, a prolific goal shooter and attacker.

She beat Rachael Nanyonga (NIC Netball Club) and Shaffie Nalwanja (KCCA) to the monthly award.

The ceremony also honored retired tennis icon John Oduke, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Escorted by his son Allan Otto, the 67‑year‑old described the recognition as the crowning moment of his illustrious career spanning more than five decades.

Oduke, who began playing tennis at age 10, attributed his success to discipline, hard work, and dedication.

“I was a famous star in the Davis Cup and never lost any final in my lifetime. I was once ranked 881 in the world in 1989, and that was a great achievement,” he recalled.

Representatives of the sponsors — Eron Nandawula (Jude Color Solutions), Reste Mbatudde (Fortbet), and Diana Athieno (Mosquito Restaurant) — congratulated the athletes and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting sports excellence through the monthly awards.