During my childhood, fifty years ago, females never played certain sports that were ring fenced as male only sports. It is noble and bold for Sports Women Connect Foundation, Entebbe, to choose to promote playing of rugby among girls and women as an avenue for mentoring and leadership training. On International Women’s Day 2022 they organised an inter-secondary school girls’ rugby tournament at Namate School grounds in Entebbe.

My niece, Alinga III, (centre in blue) captained her school, Mary Reparatrix Secondary School, Bugongo Entebbe Rugby Team, which came 4th. Alinga III is a Senior Six candidate studying Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Information Communication Technology – a doctor in the making.

Another of my nieces, Isukali III, who is in Senior Five, captained Hillside International High School Rugby Team, which came 7th. Here smiling as she received their certificate of participation from Ms. Mary Nakanyike, a former National Rugby Player, and currently a Sports Teacher.

On team Hillside was another of my nieces, a Senior Four candidate, Patience, captured in the featured picture charging forward. Though they came last, team Hillside celebrated showing up and doing their best. This is the best of sportsmanship and a skill much needed in leadership at all levels in Uganda. We need to learn to celebrate our achievements, even when we are not number one; to graciously accept defeat; and to celebrate the victor.

Team Airforce Secondary School, Entebbe, was the number one!

Sports Women Connect Foundation aim is to provide:

“A platform for empowering, mentoring and inspiring young girls and women in sport to advocate for an increase of female leaders in sports management.”

Sports Women Connect Foundation

Every little bit counts to contribute to breaking the bias.