Both the men and women’s teams will compete at the same circuits of this year’s National Rugby Sevens Series (known as Nile Special 7s for sponsorship reasons) that kicks off this weekend at Dam Waters, Jinja. In the recent past the two genders used to compete at separate events.
According to Uganda Rugby Union (URU), this is a momentous twist in the growth of the women’s game because every team will be attended by the same number of fans.
“This will be a first of its kind,” revealed URU’s CEO, Isaac Lutwama during the season launch in Jinja, adding that; “it’s consistent with the union’s strategy to grow the women’s game. We shall tap into the same fans that have always watched rugby, to promote the women and people will begin to appreciate what they also bring to the table. Soon they too will become household names.”
Meanwhile, it is a rarity for a local men’s rugby tournament to commence with the favourites tag firmly pinned on a club outside the big three; Heathens, Kobs and Pirates. Jinja Hippos, the neutral’s darling having torn the form book to win their maiden major trophy last year, are looking forward with renewed relish at the prospect of defending both their home circuit and the overall Nile Special 7s series that kick off this weekend at Damwaters, Jinja.
Commenting about the new season fixtures earlier on, the Hippos head coach Said Atibu oozed optimism ahead of the tournament stating that his troops are ready to fight to retain the title. He specifically pointed to the fact that his title winning squad has largely remained intact since last season. It is the accumulated experience and taste of victory that Atibu opines will make the difference this year.
But having missed out on the league honours, Kobs and Heathens will be hoping to alleviate the lingering possibility of a trophy-less season. Yet buoyed by the league title, Pirates too will be hoping to complete a double. This pauses the biggest huddle to Hippos’ quest for a second 7s title in row.
