Incomplete arena hampers She Cranes' potential despite global success

When the Makerere Indoor Arena was constructed in 2018 for the World University Netball Championships, it sparked excitement among netball and indoor sports enthusiasts.

The promise of a world-class facility raised hopes of hosting numerous international tournaments and elevating Ugandan sports to new heights.

However, nearly six years later, the arena remains incomplete, dimming the aspirations of many.

Despite this setback, the She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball team, have consistently defied the odds. Their remarkable performances on the global stage, achieved without access to a standard home facility, demonstrate their resilience and immense potential. Imagine how much more they could achieve with a fully equipped, world-class netball arena.

A completed home would not only enhance their performance but also reduce the risk of injuries caused by inadequate playing surfaces. The absence of a proper wooden floor standard court in Uganda has exposed players to frequent knee injuries, prematurely ending promising careers.

She Cranes coach Nelson Bogere passionately advocates for a national netball home, emphasizing its transformative impact. “We cannot be ranked number six in the world and still lack a wooden floor court like other leading netball nations. To host international events, we need a standard home,” he explained. Bogere also highlighted how poor surfaces increase the risk of injuries, limiting players' longevity and potential.

Jocelyn Ucanda, president of Netball Uganda, has prioritized the construction of this facility. “Our goal is to create a space where players can perform comfortably, fans can enjoy the game, and we can run our operations from a central location. A permanent home will attract sponsors and elevate the sport to new heights,” she stated.

Beyond enhancing performance, a netball arena would serve as a hub for talent development and an income-generating venue, hosting both local and international tournaments. It would symbolize Uganda’s commitment to sports excellence, inspiring young athletes and solidifying the nation’s position on the global stage.

The She Cranes have already shown the world what they can achieve with limited resources. Now, it’s time to provide them with the infrastructure they deserve—a true home for Uganda’s netball.