Netball Transfer: The Historical Switch, Best Centre Joins League Champions
Baagala Makes Shock Switch from NIC to KCCA Netball Club
By Kayiira Jackson
Arguably one of the finest centre players Uganda Netball has produced in recent years, Margaret Baagala has completed a high-profile move to Netball Super League champions KCCA Netball Club, ending her stint at National Insurance Corporation (NIC) Netball Club.
The She Cranes star officially bid farewell to NIC earlier this week, bringing to a close a five-year association with one of the country’s most decorated netball sides.
Baagala joined NIC in 2020 and, despite an on-and-off campaign in the just-concluded season, played a pivotal role in the club’s dominance both locally and on the regional stage. During her time with the giants, she helped NIC secure one National Netball Super League title and an impressive four East Africa Netball Championships.
Speculation over her future began circulating midway through last season, fueled by her limited appearances and growing interest from rival clubs. The rumors have now been confirmed with her move to KCCA, a transfer that ranks among the most significant in the league’s recent history.
Her switch draws comparisons to the 2019 blockbuster transfer of Stella Oyella from Prisons Netball Club to NIC, a move that sent shockwaves through the Ugandan netball fraternity at the time.
A graduate of St Mary’s Boarding Secondary School and Kampala University, Baagala brings experience, leadership, and composure to a KCCA side already brimming with talent. She joins an elite roster that includes Shadia Nassanga, Mercy Batamuliza, Brenda Nakazibwe, Shaffie Nalwanja, and Christine Nakitto, further strengthening the champions’ depth.
With Baagala in the engine room, KCCA Netball Club are poised to be an even more formidable force as they prepare to defend their title in the upcoming season.