Rukare urges She Cranes to target Commonwealth Games final
Following Uganda's unbeaten triumph at the Celtic Cup in Scotland last year, Rukare said the team has shown it is capable of competing with the best and should aim to make the country proud once again.
Commonwealth Sport president Donald Rukare (2nd left) talks to the She Cranes players at Lugogo, June 28, 2026. (Photos by Michael Nsubuga)
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Commonwealth Sport president Donald Rukare has challenged the She Cranes to build on their recent success by reaching the netball final at the 2026 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, scheduled for July 25 to August 2, 2026.
Following Uganda's unbeaten triumph at the Celtic Cup in Scotland last year, Rukare said the team has shown it is capable of competing with the best and should aim to make the country proud once again.
Rukare met the She Cranes during a training session on June 28, 2026, where he joined them on court before addressing the players on the responsibilities that come with representing Uganda at a major international event.
"It's an honour, and it's not easy to represent the country, so congratulations to all of you. We wish you the very best. We also want to congratulate the coaches, the management, and the leadership for their dedication to netball in Uganda. As the Commonwealth Games Uganda, we have every confidence in you that you'll go all the way. Believe in yourselves. Keep focused. Know what the mission is about. And let's go and do Uganda proud,” Rukare implored.
Commonwealth Sport president Donald Rukare (center) tries to block a shot during the team's training at Lugogo, June 28, 2026.
He also advised the players to remain vigilant about the Ebola outbreak, noting that many people outside Africa are concerned about travellers from Uganda.
Rukare urged the team to maintain discipline both on and off the court, emphasising the importance of safeguarding and appropriate conduct when interacting with fellow athletes, volunteers and other people at the Games and in their accommodation.
He also cautioned the players against doping, advising them to be careful about any medication they take and to keep a record of all substances they have used over the past three months. He encouraged them to understand their rights should they be selected for drug testing.
Rukare further warned the players against absconding while abroad.
He also cautioned the team against match manipulation and betting-related approaches, urging them not to accept money in exchange for influencing the outcome of games.
In addition, Rukare encouraged the players to use their social media platforms responsibly, observe proper travel etiquette and remain alert while travelling.
Uganda will also be represented at the Commonwealth Games in athletics, para-athletics, swimming, para swimming, weightlifting, para-weightlifting, para-powerlifting, judo, cycling, boxing, 3x3 basketball and netball.