Big players are meant for big stages; that’s why everyone is happy to see Jude Jjuuko back at the top at Heathens RFC.
Jjuuko had a short stint with the Kampani Eagles at a time when he was just about to reach the height of his powers. This move proved costly to his career, as he was viewed as the 3rd choice Rugby Cranes 15s hooker, just behind Nathan Bwambale and Faragi Odugo, but was later leapfrogged by Emmanuel Kiyaga and Edward Emiemu.
Redemption for Jjuuko
Jjuuko is a versatile player who is comfortable hooking or flanking. To see these attributes not fully tested in the 2nd tier of Ugandan rugby, where the Eagles were relegated to last season, would be such a shame for the player. The unique case of Brian Wandera at Rams in the central championship, who has been consistent for the Rugby Cranes despite playing at a less competitive level, would have to be replicated by Jjuuko.
Moving to Heathens is an opportunity for Jjuuko to not only play with and against the best every other Saturday, but to consistently train with them as well, under forwards coach Alex Mubiru (a legendary hooker) and Tolbert Onyango.
Jjuuko walks straight into that squad, not only dispatching Herbert Champara to become the second choice hooker behind Sylvester Munguacel, but also possibly starting at with Munguacel deputising at prop.
In the back row, there are plenty of players at Heathens, but Jjuuko has an edge over most of them. It will be interesting to see how Heathens uses the young Patrick Okello, Vani Adebua, and Jason Nuwamanya as compared to the more experienced Aziz Khan, David Wako, Scott Oluoch and Lawrence Ssebuliba.
Squad depth for Heathens and the Rugby Cranes
Since the retirement of Alex Mubiru and the unceremonious exit of Syrus Wathum, both Heathens and the Cranes have struggled to find a befitting replacement. For the Heathens, Sylvester Munguacel has brought back some hope, while for the Cranes, Emiemu and Kiyaga are viewed as the future.
Having Jjuuko perform at the highest level at Heathens opens up more options for the Cranes as well. For a tournament national team squad, it helps to carry a player who can give you cover in 2 or 3 positions.
The rest is now up to Jjuuko to YINGIZA and get back to the top, where he belongs.