Celtic Cup: She Cranes Flagged Off for Historic Debut in Scotland

On Nov 21, 2025

By Kayiira Jackson

The Uganda national netball team, the She Cranes, has been officially flagged off for the 2025 Celtic Cup, marking the country’s first-ever appearance in this tournament. The ceremony took place on Friday afternoon at Copper Chimney in Lugogo, drawing together officials from the National Council of Sports (NCS) and the Netball Uganda (NU).

The flag-off was presided over by Chebet Milton, the NCS Assistant General Secretary in charge of technical affairs. The NU was represented by its president, Jocelyn Ucanda, alongside her executive members including Vice President Administration William Bwambale, Vice President Technical Richard Muhumuza, General Secretary Aminah Mande, and Buganda Region representative Hon. Sarah Evelyn Nkonge Muwonge.

Ucanda expressed deep appreciation to the Government of Uganda for fully financing the team’s trip to Scotland, where they will depart this Sunday.

Jocelyn Ucanda, Netball Uganda President

“We’re grateful to the Government of Uganda because they have been able to facilitate this team to Scotland. The team has been flagged by the National Council of Sports and is ready to represent the nation,” Ucanda said, noting that the squad is in excellent shape ahead of competition.

Team captain Racheal Nanyonga echoed the confidence, stating that the She Cranes are heading to Glasgow with a single mission—victory.

Racheal Nanyonga, She Cranes team caption

“Our aim is to go and win all the matches in Scotland, and we’re well set for the tournament,” Nanyonga stated.

Final 14-Player Squad

Mary Nuba
Margaret Baagala
Racheal Nanyonga (Captain)
Achola Lillian
Kadondi Faridah
Christine Nakitto
Akello Malisera
Fildauce Namulema
Shakirah Nassaka
Namukose Specioza
Lillian Ajio
Nassanga Shadia
Shaffie Nalwanja
Ayaa Gloria

Tournament Format and Opponents

This year’s Celtic Cup has expanded to feature six nations in a round-robin format. Uganda will face a competitive lineup including hosts Scotland (Scottish Thistles), defending champions Wales (Welsh Feathers), Northern Ireland (NI Warriors), Zimbabwe (Gems), and Namibia (Desert Jewels).

All matches will be hosted at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow, a premier sports venue that has staged numerous international events.

With a talented squad and renewed government backing, the She Cranes enter the tournament with optimism and determination, seeking to make a strong statement in their debut Celtic Cup appearance.