Ruth Meeme returns to Commonwealth Games as She Cranes assistant coach
Playing in the midcourt, she was one of the team's key performers as the She Cranes impressed the world with a sixth-place finish.
She Cranes assistant head coach Ruth Meeme
The last time Ruth Meeme attended the Commonwealth Games was in 2018 in Gold Coast, Australia, where Uganda made its historic debut at the Games.
Playing in the midcourt, she was one of the team's key performers as the She Cranes impressed the world with a sixth-place finish.
Eight years later, she is returning to the Commonwealth Games, but this time with a different responsibility. Instead of directing play from the court, she will be guiding the team from the bench as assistant head coach during the 2026 Games in Glasgow.
"It is a great opportunity to go back to the Commonwealth Games," Meeme said. "My going back is an inspiration as well as a motivation to many players that they can upgrade to coaching and also inspire the next generation."
Her transition has not happened by chance. While her experience as a former international player has given her an advantage, she says the modern game demands continuous learning.
"I use some of the skills I gained as a player, but netball is changing and growing so fast. To match up with the sport, you need to research and read all the time. And it has so far paid off," she explained.
Meeme believes more female players should view coaching as a natural next step after their playing careers. Having witnessed men dominate coaching roles for years, she hopes more women will step forward and lead.
"Growing up, I witnessed men dominate this sport as coaches. I encourage women to believe in themselves. Take lessons from female coaches like Imeldah Nyongesa. She has been national coach material. We have the knowledge, and we can transform this sport," she said.
The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place from July 23 to August 2 in Glasgow, Scotland. Uganda has been drawn in a challenging Group B alongside New Zealand, Jamaica, Wales, Scotland, and Trinidad and Tobago.
After finishing fifth at the 2022 Commonwealth Games, the She Cranes will be aiming to maintain or even better that achievement.
For many athletes, retirement from competitive sport can feel like the end of a dream. But for She Cranes assistant head coach Ruth Meeme, it marked the beginning of a new purpose, one that continues to shape Uganda's netball future.