Joyce Nakibuule earns spot in She Cranes Fast5 squad

Selected players

Shooters: Mary Nuba, Irene Eyaru, Shadia Nassanga and Christine Namulumba.

Midcourt: Margaret Baagala and Joyce Nakibuule.

Defenders: Sandra Nambirige, Faridah Kadondi, Haniisha Muhameed and Christine Nakito

A team of 10 players has been chosen to represent Uganda in the upcoming Fast5 World Netball Series, set to take place from November 9-10 in Christchurch, New Zealand.

For netball fans, this lineup remains familiar, with one exciting new addition: Joyce Nakibuule, a seasoned midcourt player from the Prisons Netball Club.

Nakibuule has long been on the national team’s extended roster, frequently called to She Cranes training camps, only to narrowly miss the final squad. This time, however, her persistence has paid off. Nakibuule expressed her joy, saying, “Every player dreams of making it to the national team. I’m so excited about this debut, and I promise to put on a good show.”

As the only debutant, Nakibuule is eager to make her mark on the international stage. The Fast5 Series offers a valuable opportunity to play against top talent worldwide, and Nakibuule plans to soak up every lesson and skill, aiming to elevate her play to a professional level.

Assistant coach Nouredine Kato voiced his confidence in Nakibuule, underscoring her experience as essential to her selection. “Joyce is an experienced player, and I believe she will use that to help us perform better. She has been patient, and the right time for her international debut has arrived. With her in the midcourt, Uganda will shine in New Zealand,” Kato affirmed.

The Fast5 World Netball Series brings together the top six netball-playing nations globally. Uganda made its debut in the Fast5 tournament in 2022, finishing in 5th place, a position they are eager to improve upon this year.

With their sights set on a strong performance in Christchurch, the She Cranes are determined to make their mark on the global stage. As they gear up to face the world’s top teams, Uganda’s She Cranes carry the hopes of their fans and aim to leave a lasting impact in the Fast5 World Netball Series.