The Uganda She Cranes didn’t just win bronze at the 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup—they made a statement.
With a hard-fought 55-45 victory over Malawi in the third-place playoff, the She Cranes avenged their earlier loss and proved that resilience and adaptability are the hallmarks of a rising team.
While the bronze medals will undoubtedly spark celebrations as the team returns home, the real story lies in the lessons learned and the potential for growth.
This tournament wasn’t just about winning; it was about laying the foundation for future success.
A Redemption Story
The She Cranes entered the playoff with something to prove. After a tough round-robin stage that saw them lose to England, South Africa, and Malawi, they could have easily been demoralized.
Instead, they regrouped, refocused, and delivered a performance that showcased their determination.
Sharp shooter Mary Nuba Cholhok, named the best player of the match, was instrumental in Uganda’s victory.
Her precision and composure under pressure were a testament to the team’s growing confidence and skill.
This win wasn’t just about settling for bronze—it was about proving that the She Cranes belong on the international stage.
The Road to Bronze
The journey to the podium wasn’t easy. Uganda’s campaign began with a crushing 45-70 loss to South Africa, followed by a 59-45 defeat to Malawi.
Even in their match against England, where they started strong with a 12-11 lead in the first quarter, the She Cranes couldn’t maintain their momentum, eventually falling 48-59.
But in the playoff, everything clicked. The defense was tighter, the attacks more calculated, and the teamwork more cohesive.
Malawi, who had previously dominated Uganda, found themselves outplayed and outsmarted. The She Cranes didn’t just win—they dominated.
Lessons from the Tournament
While the bronze medal is a cause for celebration, it’s also an opportunity for reflection. The She Cranes showed flashes of brilliance, but consistency remains a challenge.
Narrowing the margins of defeat—turning close losses into comfortable victories—will be key to their future success.
Here are three key takeaways from the tournament:
1. Resilience is Non-Negotiable: The She Cranes bounced back from multiple losses to secure a podium finish. This mental toughness will serve them well in future competitions.
2. Strategy Matters: The playoff victory over Malawi was a masterclass in adaptability. The team adjusted their gameplay to exploit their opponent’s weaknesses, a skill that will be crucial as they face stronger teams.
3. Star Power Helps, but Teamwork Wins: While Mary Nuba Cholhok shone brightly, the victory was a team effort. Building depth and ensuring every player can step up when needed will be essential.
What’s Next for the She Cranes?
As the team returns home, the focus will shift to the future. How can Uganda build on this success? Here are a few actionable steps:
- Invest in Youth Development: Identifying and nurturing young talent will ensure a steady pipeline of skilled players.
- Enhance Training Programs: Partnering with experienced coaches and leveraging advanced training techniques can help bridge the gap between Uganda and top-tier teams like England and South Africa.
- Increase International Exposure: Competing in more high-profile tournaments will give the She Cranes the experience they need to compete at the highest level.
The Bigger Picture
While the bronze medal is a significant achievement, it’s just the beginning. The She Cranes have shown they can compete with the best—now it’s time to prove they can consistently win.
With the right support, strategy, and determination, Uganda’s netball team has the potential to become a global powerhouse.
As the 2025 Vitality Netball Nations Cup concludes, one thing is clear: the She Cranes are no longer underdogs. They’re contenders. And the world is watching.
