Jocelyn Uchanda, a prominent figure in Ugandan netball, was recently honored with the Lifetime Sports Achievement Award by Real Stars Sports Agency. The award ceremony took place on September 3, 2024, at Lazo Restaurant in Kololo, where Uchanda’s decades of dedication to the sport were recognized.
Uchanda, who has served as the manager of both the NIC Netball Club and the Uganda national netball team (She Cranes), is also an aspiring President of the Uganda Netball Federation. In her acceptance speech, she expressed heartfelt gratitude for the recognition, saying, “I am deeply honored by this award. It is a testament to the hard work and passion I’ve poured into netball over the years. I didn’t realize the extent of the impact I’ve made until today.”
She also extended her congratulations to other award recipients, emphasizing the importance of passion in sports. “Whether it’s football, boxing, or basketball, we are all part of one big sports family. Love what you do, and success will follow,” Uchanda advised.
The Lifetime Sports Achievement Award was previously given to Former Mukwenda Godfrey Mbalire in July for his contributions to the Masaza Cup. Uchanda’s recognition highlights her influence and leadership within the Ugandan sports community.
The event also celebrated top performers from various sports disciplines. In football, Julius Ssenyonga, a rising star in the 2024 Masaza Cup, was named the best player of August. The 19-year-old goalkeeper, representing Ssaza Ssingo, kept three clean sheets in three matches, showcasing his potential as a future football star.
Lydia Babirye, a standout basketball player and USA-based college scholar, was awarded the best basketball player of August. Babirye’s stellar performance in the Basketball 3×3 World Cup qualifier earned Uganda a spot in the upcoming event in Mongolia. She outshone competitors like KIU Rangers’ Joel Lukoji and UCU Canons’ Shakira Navubya to claim the award.
In boxing, John Sserunjoji secured his second ForteBet Real Stars Sports Monthly Award, thanks to a knockout victory against Egypt’s Ahmed Boloshy in the 8th round. Sserunjoji’s win further cemented his reputation as a formidable middleweight boxer.
The awards, accompanied by prize money, were presented by Buikwe South aspiring Member of Parliament Isaac Mukasa, along with representatives from Jude Colour Solutions and ForteBet.
This event highlighted the diverse talent across Uganda’s sports landscape and celebrated individuals like Jocelyn Uchanda, whose contributions continue to inspire and elevate the nation’s sporting achievements.
