2024 Uganda National Handball League:
Champions:
- Women: Police women handball club – 34 points
- Men: Ndejje University – 23 points
In a thrilling culmination of the 2024 Uganda National Handball League, Police Women’s Handball Club and Ndejje University emerged as champions in their respective categories.
Boasting an impressive total of 34 points, the Police women’s team defended their title with a remarkable record, achieving 17 victories against just a single defeat. They showcased an offensive powerhouse by netting 818 goals while allowing 531, resulting in a staggering goal difference of 287.
Celebrating their success, the Police team attributes their triumph to standout performances from players including Lillian Achola, Jesca Nakamaanya, Diana Nakamya, Cynthia Akinyi, Dorren Ondoa, Shakirah Bako, and Beatrice Achayo, whose relentless effort solidified their championship run.
This victory marks the fourth consecutive year that Police has clinched the coveted national handball league title.
“We have now secured the league four times in a row. Allahu Akbar! I extend my gratitude to our top management and specifically recognize the support from our Inspector General of Police, as well as our Sports Officer ACP Abu Kalule, and team manager SSP Nampoza Ritah. I am incredibly proud of each of my players and my coaches: Pirwoth Emmanns, Kisitu Faridah, Nabayaza Noelin, Ssemujju Frank, and Ayet Fred for this monumental accomplishment,” expressed Yakoub Azizi, head coach of Police Women’s Handball team.
“As we celebrate this achievement, we are shifting our focus to the upcoming East and Central Handball Club Championship, scheduled to take place in Kigali from December 15, 2024,” added Azizi, setting an ambitious goal for the team.
Prisons secured the second position with 30 points, closely followed by Victoria University, who matched their score. Other notable team standings include Ndejje University (24), UPDF (22), Nkajja (15), Kyengeza Bees (11), Kawanda SS (10), Wanainchi (4), and Makerere University, which ended their campaign without a single point.
In the men’s league, Ndejje University enjoyed an undefeated season, finishing with 23 points, two points ahead of second-place UPDF.
The Ndejje University team drew inspiration from key players such as Victor Obedmoth, Ignatius Anzoretu, Godwin Bingana, Peter Kwisanga, Denis Okwer, Jakisa Anuari, and Nicholas Job Atugonza, who collectively demonstrated extraordinary teamwork and skill.
“Our victory is a result of sheer diligence and commitment. We respected our opponents, particularly UPDF, who proved to be a formidable team. The culmination of our hard work and passion was evident in every play, each driven by discipline and strategy. Ultimately, I didn’t just manage the game; I embraced it, showcasing that true champions emerge from preparation and heart,” proclaimed Hassan Male, head coach at Ndejje University.
UPDF concluded the season with 21 points, buoyed by a goal difference of 157 (540 goals scored against 383 conceded). The competition saw additional participants, including Prisons (16), Makerere University (11), Police (8), Uzalendo (5), and Evergreen (0).
The electrifying national handball league matches were held at the Old Kampala Sports Arena, a venue renowned for hosting thrilling sporting events.
Related
What strategies did Coach Yakoub Azizi implement to achieve a record of 17 wins and only one loss this season?
### Interview with Yakoub Azizi, Head Coach of Police Women’s Handball Team
**Editor:** Congratulations, Coach Azizi, on another spectacular season! You’ve led your team to victory for the fourth consecutive year in the Uganda National Handball League. How does it feel to have achieved such a milestone?
**Yakoub Azizi:** Thank you! It feels absolutely incredible. Winning the league four times in a row is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team. I’m immensely proud of our players and coaching staff for their commitment.
**Editor:** Your team finished with an impressive record of 17 wins and only one loss. What do you think was the key to your success this season?
**Yakoub Azizi:** Consistency and teamwork were crucial. Our players showed an incredible level of skill and determination, and their ability to work together on and off the court made all the difference. We scored 818 goals while only allowing 531, showcasing our strong offensive and defensive strategies.
**Editor:** Players like Lillian Achola and Cynthia Akinyi were standout performers this season. Could you tell us more about their contributions?
**Yakoub Azizi:** Absolutely, both Lillian and Cynthia played pivotal roles in our success. Lillian provided leadership and scoring ability, while Cynthia’s defensive skills were critical in controlling the pace of the game. Each player brought something unique to the team, and I believe that their individual strengths as well as their unity power our overall performance.
**Editor:** In your statement, you acknowledged the support from your management and the Inspector General of Police. How important is this backing to your team’s achievements?
**Yakoub Azizi:** It’s invaluable. The support from our top management, especially from the Inspector General of Police and our Sports Officer ACP Abu Kalule, has been fantastic. Their encouragement allows us to focus on the game and strive for excellence. It motivates our players to perform at their best.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, you mentioned the East and Central Handball Club Championship in Kigali. What will be your strategy as you prepare for this tournament?
**Yakoub Azizi:** Our focus will shift to ensuring that we maintain our competitive edge. We’ll analyze our strategies and make any necessary adjustments. It’s going to be a challenging tournament, but we’re eager to represent Uganda and make our supporters proud.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, Coach Azizi. Best of luck in your upcoming challenges!
**Yakoub Azizi:** Thank you very much! We appreciate the support and look forward to the next steps. Allahu Akbar!
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