David GOMBE
The Woodball Cranes have safely landed in Malaysia ahead of the the third Woodball World Cup and Malaysia open Championship.
The event in Malaysia Malaysia will run from 25th to 31st July 2023.
The team comprises that comprises of 15 players departed for Malaysia on Monday.
Team captain, Onesmus Atamba has competed in seven previous championships with his crowning achievement being securing Uganda’s first gold medal in the inaugural event held in Indonesia in 2017 is optimistic of success in Malaysia
“We have prepared well under the stewardship of head coach George Isabirye. He has done a tremendous role for the one month long preparations at Bunjakko beach in Mpigi. We are hopeful of a successful event in Malaysia. The team is more than ready to participate but compete and return home with success.” Said Atamba
The team was flagged off by General Secretary, Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel who represented the Minister of State for Education & Sports (Sports).
Dr Ogwel revealed that government had supported the team to the tune of Shs 432m, which covered a full month of residential training, other purchases, as well as tournament expenses while in Malaysia where they will also play in the Malaysian Open.
The event was twice postponed due to the outbreak of the Covid-19 turmoil.
Chinese Taipei are the defending champions following their success at the Showpiece that was held at Spennah Beach, Entebbe in 2019. Taipei beat Uganda to the title on silver medal count, both nations however registered six gold medals.
The Team
Men
Thomas Kedi, Ronald Mulindwa, Robert Mutiibwa, Onesmus Atamba, Micheal Musaazi and Isaac Muwanguzi
Women
Joyce Nalubega, Joan Mukoova, Christine Birungi, Florence Mukoya, Lillian Zawedde, Jackie Naula
Bank of Uganda: Josephine Nantongo, William Osire and Kenneth Mutungisa
Head coach: George Isabirye
Assistant Coach : Eric Enabu
Leader of Delegation: David Katende
Team Manager: Collins Ssemanda
International Referee: Sarah Nakajubi
Media: George Katongole and Kimuli