We finally closed the 2023-24 Uganda top-flight club rugby season with the Nile Special 7s Series on Sunday evening. In trying to maintain tradition since I started doing this a few seasons ago, when any of our major national tournaments, I scribble down a list of players who have not only been outstanding performers but also been my personal favourites to watch.
So, with some excitement and fingers crossed, here are my two dream teams for the 2024 Nile Special 7s Series:
Angella Nanyonjo Credit: John Batanudde
Fazira Namukwaya Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Florence Babirye Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Charlotte Mudoola Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Habiba Namulembwa Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Emilly Lekuru Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Gladys Wilembe Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Women’s Team of the 2024 Series:
Angella Nanyonjo (Thunderbirds)
Fazira Namukwaya (Avengers)
Florence Babirye (Avengers)
Charlotte Mudoola (Black Pearls)
Habiba Namulembwa (She Wolves)
Emilly Lekuru (Black Pearls)
Gladys Wilembe (She Wolves)
The two new core teams on the series, She Wolves and Kitgum Queens, were such a revelation to watch. Coupled with the invitational teams in upcountry regions, this was a clear testament to the abundance of talent in the upcountry regions.
Ivan Odhiambo Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Edward Emiemu Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Julius Opio Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Malcolm Daniel Okello Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Kamiza Jones Credit: Hassan Omar Wamwayi for Rugby Agency
Salim Katumba Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Hosanna Opileni Credit: John Philip Mugabi
Men’s Team of the 2024 Series:
Ivan Odhiambo (Buffaloes)
Edward Emiemu (Walukuba)
Julius Opio (Hippos)
Malcolm Okello (Heathens)
Jones Kamiza (Black Pirates)
Salim Katumba (Elgon Wolves)
Hosanna Opileni (Rams)
Elgon Wolves passed their first test as a core team in the series with flying colours. They stood strong amongst experienced teams and showcased their exciting brand of rugby. I look forward to seeing them again.
Florence Babirye and Malcolm Okello are my choices for women’s and men’s Most Valuable Player in the 2024 series.
The post Ernest Akorebirungi: My men’s & women’s Teams of the 2024 7s Series appeared first on Kawowo Sports.