The Uganda Christian University Angels have kicked off their 2026 campaign in style, emerging champions at the National Netball Rally held in Masaka at Kaddugala Secondary School from March 27–28.
The Uganda Christian University Angels have kicked off their 2026 campaign in style, emerging champions at the National Netball Rally held in Masaka at Kaddugala Secondary School from March 27–28.
Organised by the Uganda Netball Federation, the annual rally serves as the season opener ahead of the national league. This year’s edition attracted over 65 teams across multiple categories, including primary (U12, U14), secondary schools, universities, local clubs and league sides for both men and women.
UCU Dominates University Category
In the university category, UCU faced competition from Makerere University Business School and Makerere University, with only three teams participating.
The Mukono-based side delivered a disciplined and cohesive performance throughout the tournament, ultimately clinching the title.
Team captain Linda Muzigo credited the victory to unity and passion for the sport.
“Love for the game and togetherness were our secret weapons because if a team is divided, it’s hard to produce good results,” she said.
Muzigo added that the team’s determination to uphold the university’s reputation, coupled with strong support from the technical bench, played a crucial role in their triumph.
Rally Provides Crucial Preparation
Head coach Nelson James Bogere emphasized the importance of the rally as a preparatory platform ahead of the league season.
“Our strategy was to treat each team with respect and remain composed, as undermining opponents often leads to failure,” he noted.
Bogere also revealed that the team is undergoing a transition phase following the departure of key shooter Alice Isoto. The rally offered an opportunity to test new talent, including Bashirah Nassazzi, who is being groomed to step into a bigger role.
“These games have helped us prepare more for the season. We are building a new squad and hope to put up a strong fight when the league resumes,” he added.
Highlights from Other Categories
The rally also showcased emerging talent across different levels of the sport:
In the primary schools category, Archbishop Kiweewa Primary School claimed the U12 title, while Winsa Primary School won the U14 championship after defeating Licowins Primary School.
St Noa Secondary School triumphed over Buddo Secondary School in the high school category.
In the local clubs division, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority Netball Club defeated Snippers Netball Club in the women’s category, while Joseph Nkoni led victory over Villa Maria Netball Club in the men’s category.
League action saw National Insurance Corporation Netball Club overcome Kampala Capital City Authority Netball Club in the women’s division.
WOB Netball Club dominated the men’s league category, beating Kampala University.
Strong Start to the Season
The National Rally once again highlighted its role as a vital platform for talent development and competitive readiness. For UCU, the victory signals a strong start and renewed ambition as they head into the 2026 netball league season.
With a rebuilding squad and momentum on their side, the Angels will be aiming to translate this early success into league dominance.