Veteran Nanyonga to Lead She Cranes at 2025 Celtic Cup After Squad Reveal
Celtic Cup 2025: She Cranes Unveil Final 14-Player Squad Ahead of Glasgow Challenge
By: Kayiira Jackson
Netball Uganda has officially named the final 14-player She Cranes squad that will represent the country at the second edition of the Celtic Netball Cup, slated for 26th–30th November 2025 at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow, Scotland.
The highly anticipated squad announcement was made on Friday afternoon at the Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC) offices in Lugogo, where officials, players, and media gathered for the final reveal. Team manager Alice Alwenyi read out the names of the selected players from the initial 20 who had been summoned to camp.
The event was attended by Netball Uganda president Jocelyn Ucanda, vice president (Technical) Richard Muhumuza, General Secretary Aminah Mande, Treasurer Yusuf Kamulegeya, and the players’ representative on the executive.
Ucanda: “The team is in good shape”
In her remarks, President Ucanda expressed confidence in the squad selected for Uganda’s first-ever appearance at the Celtic Cup, noting that technical reports show strong preparation and team improvement.
“This team is ready to put up a serious challenge in Glasgow,” Ucanda said. “They are now the country’s flag bearers, and we expect them to give their absolute best.”
Uganda is using this world ranking competition as a platform to push its global standing further, eyeing a move from 7th to 6th place on the World Netball rankings.
Captain Nanyonga Ready for the Task
Seasoned shooter and newly appointed captain Racheal Nanyonga who will be be assisted by Lillian Ajio said the team is mentally and physically ready to compete. She emphasized that the upcoming residential training will boost team chemistry and sharpen their combinations.
New Face, Renewed Hope
The final squad features one new entrant, Namukose Specioza, who impressed during camp and earned her maiden place on the national team.
The She Cranes will depart for Glasgow on 23rd November, traveling aboard Qatar Airways. The team will be coached by Rashid Mubiru, assisted by former national star Ruth Meeme.
Final 14-Player She Cranes Squad for Celtic Cup 2025
- 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
About the Celtic Netball Cup 2025
This year’s competition has expanded to include six nations. Uganda will compete in a round-robin tournament against:
- Scotland – Hosts (Scottish Thistles)
- Wales – Welsh Feathers (Defending Champions)
- Northern Ireland – NI Warriors
- Zimbabwe – Gems
- Namibia – Desert Jewels
- Uganda – She Cranes
The Emirates Arena in Glasgow—a world-class sports venue—will stage all matches.