Jocelyn Uchanda, an aspiring President of the Uganda Netball Federation and long-serving manager of NIC Netball Club and the Uganda national netball team (She Cranes), has been honored with the Lifetime Sports Achievement Award. The recognition came from Real Stars Sports Agency during an awards ceremony held on September 3, 2024, at Lazo Restaurant in Kololo.

In her acceptance speech, Uchanda expressed deep gratitude for the recognition, highlighting her dedication to netball and sports management. “I appreciate ForteBet Real Stars for this award. I didn’t know that I was valued to this level. For a long time, I have been in sports management, and this time I feel special,” Uchanda said. She also extended congratulations to winners from other sports disciplines, urging them to love what they do, just as she and her team have done in netball.

Uchanda’s award follows in the footsteps of the previous recipient, Former Mukwenda Godfrey Mbalire, who was honored in July for his contributions to the Masaza Cup. Uchanda’s recognition places her alongside notable sports achievers and reflects her significant impact on the development of netball in Uganda.

The event also celebrated winners from other sports disciplines. In football, Julius Ssenyonga was named the best player of August, replacing his Ssaza Ssingo teammate and captain, Joseph Ssewali. The 19-year-old goalkeeper kept three clean sheets in three games during the 2024 Masaza Cup, earning his place as a promising talent in Ugandan football.

In basketball, Lydia Babirye, a USA-based college scholar, was recognized as the best player of August. Babirye’s outstanding performance at the Basketball 3×3 World Cup qualifier helped Uganda secure a spot in the event, which will be hosted in Mongolia. She triumphed over KIU Rangers’ Joel Lukoji and UCU Canons’ Shakira Navubya for the award.

Boxer John Sserunjoji also made headlines by winning his second ForteBet Real Stars Sports Monthly Award. His victory was secured by a knockout win against Egypt’s Ahmed Boloshy in the 8th round, showcasing his prowess in the middleweight category.

All winners were present to receive their accolades, including an envelope of prize money, handed over by Buikwe South aspiring Member of Parliament Isaac Mukasa, alongside representatives from Jude Colour Solutions and ForteBet.

This ceremony underscored the unity and passion that drives Uganda’s sports community, with leaders like Jocelyn Uchanda setting the standard for excellence and dedication.