Shaffie Nalwanja: From injury setback to netball glory

Shaffie Nalwanja has long been regarded as one of the most talented defenders in Ugandan netball, with many describing her as the best goal keeper in the country today.

Calm under pressure, commanding in the circle and tactically astute, Nalwanja’s reputation has been built over years of consistency at both club and national level.

Nalwanja joined the side in 2017 and has never turned out for any other club. Her commitment to the club has been unwavering, even during the most challenging periods of her career.

At national level, she has been a regular call-up to the She Cranes, earning several accolades for her outstanding performances and becoming a trusted figure in Uganda’s defensive unit.

Ironically, despite her success on the international stage, club silverware proved elusive for many years. Season after season, Nalwanja came close, only to fall short of lifting the league title. That long wait finally ended last year when KCCA were crowned Netball Uganda Super League champions, marking her first major club triumph.

The journey to that milestone, however, was far from smooth. In 2023, Nalwanja suffered a serious knee injury that sidelined her from competitive netball. What followed was a long and difficult rehabilitation process that forced her into a break that lasted until 2025. For many players, such a setback could have signaled the beginning of the end. For Nalwanja, it became a test of faith, discipline and resilience.

“This is an answered prayer,” Nalwanja said after winning the league title. “They say better late than never, and finally we have achieved what we have always wanted. It feels great to win with some of the old faces still on the team, people who have been on this journey with me for so long.”

She was quick to credit KCCA’s improved structures for the club’s turnaround, noting that success is impossible without clear leadership and proper planning.

“The management, coaches and players have all played their role to ensure that we take this trophy,” she explained. “The addition of coach Jonah and the new girls really strengthened the team and made us better. Special thanks go to our sports officer, who has been more than supportive since he joined us in 2018.”

KCCA head coach Fred Mugerwa believes Nalwanja’s return to top form is one of the season’s most inspiring stories. He describes her recovery as a journey defined by patience, persistence and professional care.

“Nalwanja is one of the most persistent players I have worked with,” Mugerwa said.

“She has a deep love for the game and puts in extra effort to bounce back the way she has. Giving her special care and attention during that period was essential, and she followed every step with discipline. Her return has been gradual but very effective.”