As the Lady Cranes 7s gear up for their upcoming tournament, the spirit within the camp is one of fierce determination and unified purpose. We sat down with team captain, Agnes Nakuya, to discuss the lessons from the past, the evolution of the team, and the ambitious goals that drive them forward.

Reflecting on her experience captaining the side at the previous Safari 7s, Nakuya pinpointed a crucial lesson that continues to fuel the squad.

“Every team is beatable if we compose ourselves, believe in each other, and do everything as a unit while also leveraging our individual skills. We are going to use the same mentality, and even more of that, in the upcoming women’s 7s,” Nakuya stated.

With the team heading to a dedicated women’s event, the preparation has been intensified and the targets have been sharpened. Nakuya credited the coaching staff for their rigorous program of pitch and gym sessions, which have the team laser-focused on one primary objective.

“Our goal is to qualify for the World Rugby Challenger Series for the third time,” she affirmed. “Our growth was visible at the Safari 7s, where we reduced the points difference in the final against the Lionesses. This means we are focusing on beating them if we meet again, and also the champions, South Africa. We are ready to make a difference.”

For Nakuya, handling the pressure of a high-stakes tournament boils down to a core principle, especially for new squad members.

“Discipline is very key. Once you’re disciplined, you can handle all situations,” she explained. Her message to the players extends beyond the pitch, encouraging them to channel their energy through a sense of purpose. “Use this opportunity for national duty. Dedicate this tournament to someone; the people who support us, our families, our sponsors, the Union. Use all that energy to shine, and that collective energy will make us victorious.”

In the fiercely competitive women’s circuit, certain match-ups carry extra weight. For the Lady Cranes, a strong performance is about more than just a trophy; it’s about legacy.

“Of course, a team like South Africa….beating them would mean a lot to the Lady Cranes,” Nakuya said. “They are not special, but we need to compose ourselves. Beating them would not only keep our program alive but also give opportunities to other girls out there who believe in us.”

Beyond the scoreboard, Nakuya believes the Lady Cranes are poised to make a powerful statement to the entire continent.

“After the Safari 7s, every country in Africa especially those that were at the Safari 7s, know what’s coming from the Uganda Lady Cranes,” she declared. “We are not going to give anyone space to play. We have different styles of play we have been coached on: teamwork, team spirit, energy, hard work, and discipline. We did not get any redcard during the Safari 7s, and we shall build on that to improve our position in women’s 7s.”

When asked what the captaincy means to her, Nakuya’s response highlighted the profound responsibility and honour of the role.

“It means a lot,” she shared with a reflective pause. “You must understand everyone and every situation in the camp and during game time. You have to be ready to push everyone in a positive way. It is a good feeling to be a leader, and to lead exemplary.”

With a clear vision, and a disciplined approach, the Lady Cranes are ready to write their next chapter on the international stage.