Nile Rapids Aim to Reclaim Top Spot in Gulu Rugby 7s

The Nile Rapids women’s rugby team is heading to Gulu with renewed confidence and a nearly complete squad for the Lawii Rwodi 7s tournament. After a sixth-place finish at the Kyadondo circuit, which saw them drop from the top of the standings, the Jinja-based side is eager to bounce back.

Their cause is significantly bolstered by the return of key players who recently competed in the East Africa Schools Games. This influx of talent is expected to solidify their position in the Uganda Rugby Sevens Series. Last weekend, Thunderbirds capitalized on Rapids’ weakened lineup, clinching the women’s title and taking the overall lead with 58 points. Nile Rapids now sits in second place with 56 points, closely trailed by Avengers.

Coach Ronald Odakai expressed optimism about the team’s prospects in Gulu. “We missed the girls last weekend, but we were able to hold on and get some points. We’re not far behind and, as the name suggests, we’re going to Gulu this weekend,” he stated, emphasizing that the team’s brief dip in form was due to temporary absences, unlike in previous seasons.

In the Gulu draw, Nile Rapids are placed in Pool B alongside Ewes, Black Pearls, and She Wolves. The team is confident in their ability to top this group with their full squad available. The men’s competition also presents intriguing matchups, with Rams RFC entering as the reigning Kyadondo champions and facing stiff competition in Pool A.