Soroti Natives eye first wins as they host Nkajja, UPDF
The Natives, who travelled to Kampala for their first-round fixtures, failed to pick up a single victory. They currently languish at the bottom of the 11-team National Handball Super League table.
Kyengeza's player shoots against Police during their National League game at Old Kampala Arena. Photo by Johnson Were
Fixtures
Saturday (In Soroti)
Soroti Natives vs. Nkajja
Sunday (In Soroti)
Soroti Natives vs. UPDF
The Natives, who travelled to Kampala for their first-round fixtures, failed to pick up a single victory. They currently languish at the bottom of the 11-team National Handball Super League table.
To turn their fortunes around, the hosts will rely heavily on the shoulders of left-back Evelyn Angwako, centre Viola Sakaru, and left-wing Loyce Awilo. Head coach Griffin Raymond will also look to key players like right-wing Margaret Asamo and pivot Betty Angiro to deliver results.
Coach Raymond noted that playing in front of their home crowd is a long-awaited milestone for the squad.
"Playing for the first time at home in Soroti is a dream come true," Raymond said. "We wanted this sooner, but eventually, we are here, and it's a great feeling."
He added that hosting games locally eliminates the heavy burdens they faced earlier in the season.
"For the first time since the league started, the team will not have to suffer travel fatigue. We are also saving on high transport fares, accommodation costs, and many other expenses. We hope that by next season, all our home games will be played in Soroti so we can grow our regional fan base and develop handball in the area," he added.
Formed in 2023, Soroti Natives is the only handball club from the entire Northern and Eastern regions competing in the National Handball Super League.