She Cranes face leadership void ahead of Celtic Netball Cup

Uganda’s national senior netball team, the She Cranes, is set to compete in the prestigious Celtic Netball Cup at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow, Scotland, from November 26 to 30.

However, preparations for the tournament have been disrupted by the unexpected departure of team captain Irene Eyaru and defenders Sandra Ruth Nambirige and Privas Kayeny.

The trio, reportedly still under contract with their respective clubs, allegedly traveled to the United Kingdom without notifying their teams or Netball Uganda, the sport’s governing body.

Eyaru, who also captains KCCA Netball Club, and Nambirige and Kayeny, both affiliated with National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Netball Club, have been absent for over two months.

Jocelyn Ucanda, president of Netball Uganda and manager of NIC Netball Club, expressed deep disappointment over the players’ actions.

“While we understand that athletes may seek better opportunities abroad, we expect them to do so professionally,” Ucanda stated.

“Their abrupt departure sets a troubling precedent and undermines the integrity of the sport. We’ve previously supported players like Peace Proscovia, Mary Nuba, Faridah Kadondi, and Haniisha Muhameed, who all communicated openly with their clubs before pursuing opportunities in the UK.”

Ucanda acknowledged the financial hardships facing Ugandan sports, including delayed allowances and limited pay, but emphasized that such challenges do not excuse unprofessional conduct.

“We urge our athletes to maintain transparency and communicate with their clubs when exploring new opportunities,” she added.

Fred Mugerwa Tabale, head coach of KCCA Netball Club, echoed Ucanda’s concerns.

“Irene Eyaru was a disciplined and trusted player. Her sudden departure was a shock,” he said. “Initially, she cited family obligations for missing training, but soon after, her phone went off and we lost contact. As a club, we would have supported her ambitions. We wish her well and hope she finds success.”

This incident is part of a growing trend, with several Ugandan netball players previously leaving their clubs without notice. Among them are former She Cranes captain Joan Nampungu (NIC), Jesca Achan (Prisons), Rosette Namutebi (KCCA), Shakira Nakanyike (Police), Alicia Wasagali (Prisons), and Halima Kakacwa.

The departure of Eyaru, Nambirige, and Kayeny has reignited concerns about player management and highlighted the urgent need for clearer guidelines on how athletes should pursue international opportunities.