Dr Donald Rukare playing netball with She Cranes

Overview:

Head coach Rashid Mubiru named a 15-player squad for the South African tour comprising Mary Nuba, Shadiah Nassanga, Racheal Nanyonga, Alice Isoto, Margaret Bagala, Lilian Achola, Mercy Batamuliza, Hindu Namutebi, Joan Ryekoboth, Shafie Nalwanja, Gloria Ayaa, Christine Nakitto, Hanisha Muhammed, Nasimu Mutesi and Stella Nanfuka.

Commonwealth Games Association Uganda (CGAU) President Dr. Donald Rukare is a swift, dedicated and hands-on character.

Traditionally, he is a swimmer but has proven overtime to be versatile. He has played basketball, boxing, run over some reasonable distances and lately played netball.

Dr. Rukare joined the Uganda national netball team, the She Cranes in their latest training session at the Hockey Grounds in Lugogo, Kampala.

The energized team has upped their preparations for the 2026 Commonwealth Games due in Glasgow city, Scotland.

Some of the She Cranes players with Dr Donald Rukare

This is barely 24 days remaining before the Games as Dr. Rukare freely interacted with players and technical staff.

In a lively atmosphere, he even joined the team for part of the training before delivering words of encouragement, urging the players to remain focused and united as they pursue success on the international stage.

“We have joined the She Cranes in training as they prepare for the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. The spirits are high prior to the residential camp and high profile friendly matches in South Africa. We wish them the best” Dr Rukare remarked.

Dr Donald Rukare with Josylne Ucanda

The She Cranes head to Glasgow determined to improve on their fifth-place finish at the previous Commonwealth Games.

Their preparations now enter a crucial phase with a 10-day residential training camp at Jeph University Indoor Courts in Butabika.

Ucanda with her remarks

The team will then travel to Johannesburg, South Africa, for a five-day tour that includes three international friendly matches against the SPAR Proteas, providing valuable competitive exposure ahead of the Games.

Head coach Rashid Mubiru named a 15-player squad for the South African tour comprising Mary Nuba, Shadiah Nassanga, Racheal Nanyonga, Alice Isoto, Margaret Bagala, Lilian Achola, Mercy Batamuliza, Hindu Namutebi, Joan Ryekoboth, Shafie Nalwanja, Gloria Ayaa, Christine Nakitto, Hanisha Muhammed, Nasimu Mutesi and Stella Nanfuka.

“We are all in good shape and ready for the games. We are working on the team chemistry and coordination as we get closer to the games” Mutesi remarked.

The South Africa tour is expected to sharpen the She Cranes’ readiness as they set their sights on a strong performance in Glasgow.

David Isabirye is a senior staff writer for Kawowo Sports where he covers most of the major events.

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