Thunderbirds end five-year wait for women's rugby league crown
Coach Kigongo Ssebalamu said she was delighted to see her side end the five-year trophy drought.
Thunderbirds celebrate winning the Nile Special Women Rugby League. (Photos by Johnson Were)
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Thunderbirds Women Rugby Club broke a five-year jinx by winning the 2026 Nile Special Rugby Premier League with an 18-5 victory over Nile Rapids.
The Kyadondo-based side last won the league in 2020 following four consecutive titles between 2017 and 2020.
A try by Gladys Atim, two penalties from Proscovia Akello, and another try by Maureen Akello handed Thunderbirds an 18-5 victory over rivals Nile Rapids at Kyadondo Rugby Ground on May 16, 2026.
Coach Kigongo Ssebalamu said she was delighted to see her side end the five-year trophy drought.
“It is exciting, and I'm happy seeing my team winning the trophy. It has been teamwork, and we look forward to winning more trophies,” Ssebalamu said.
Thunderbirds Coach Kigongo Ssebalamu lifted high by his players after winning the League.
Thunderbirds won the Nile Special-sponsored league that featured teams including She-Wolves, Ewes, Avengers and Kitgum Queens.
The side secured the title despite missing several senior players, including Angella Nanyonjo, Yvonne Najjuma and Beth Abasa, a sign of growth at the Kyadondo-based rugby club.
Thunderbirds are now targeting the national Sevens circuit as they pursue a second title this season.