Black Panthers Rugby Club - Uganda: since 2006

2 wins and 100% defence - Kitaka 7s

2010-09-19T17:26:00.005+03:00

We faced our rivals from across the road twice during the Kitaka 7s on 18th September. We won the first game without breaking a sweat with Regina showing marvellous pace to cross the try line twice. Emma came off the bench to replace Regina and effortlessly rounded her opponents to dot down beneath the posts. I (Helen) missed the conversions for Regina's tries (just marginally I should say) but got the conversion for Emma's try. Final score was 17 - 00.

Hellen Gizamba aka Sexy (captain)

Brenda Kayiyi

Beatrice Atim (Fortunate Irankunda)

Charlotte Mudoola

Claire Anena

Helen Buteme

Regina Athieno (Emmanuella Oroma)

Fortunate Irankunda

Emmanuella Oroma

Irene Namapii

Esther Nangobi

Aisha Bahhani

We won the second game 5 - 0 courtesy of a try by me. Charlotte missed the conversion. We actually played with more intensity in the second game but we made too many knock ons and basic errors that killed our attacking game. We lost the patience that we had in our first game and we too desperate to score. Our our attacking line was not deep enough so we failed to get any momentum in attack. Our defence was great though with Beatrice and Sexy continuously putting in big hits that had the crowd screaming.

Hellen Gizamba aka Sexy (captain)

Brenda Kayiyi

Fortunate Irankunda (Beatrice Atim)

Charlotte Mudoola

Claire Anena

Helen Buteme

Regina Athieno

Beatrice Atim

Emmanuella Oroma

Irene Namapii

Esther Nangobi

Aisha Bahhani

We've already won the 7s circuit but 7s at Namboole is up next on 25th September. We want to take this thing without conceding any points.

Gina running for her life. She was not caught and she scored a try.

Claire makes a tackle.

Sexy makes a tackle.

Black Panthers versus Thunderbirds at Makerere 7s

2010-09-13T15:58:00.007+03:00

After a long break we faced our rivals from across the road on 11th September, in a 10 aside game during the URU 7s tournament held at Makerere. Due to time constraints our game was really short. 3 minutes each way running time. We were just getting warmed up when the game ended. We won 5 nil courtesy of a try from Charlotte. She danced her way through 4 birds to score out wide. My (Helen) conversion stopped just short of the posts. It was a game we dominated and we really should have scored more tries. We take too long to settle into games - something we'll need to remedy. Otherwise, great stuff from us and we're looking to up the tempo this Saturday at the Kitaka Memorial 7s at Kampala Rugby Club. This time we'll be playing 7s. We're entering 2 teams and I hope the birds will enter 2 teams as well so we have a four team tournament. We also managed to recruit a new player - Kjersti (pronounced Chursty) Garfors. She's a medical student from Norway and will be with us for 6 weeks. She's absolutely tiny - only slighter bigger than Regina.

Fortunate Irankunda

Brenda Kayiyi

Loy Mbabazi

Hellen Gizamba aka Sexy (captain)

Beatrice Atim

Regina Athieno

Claire Anena

Helen Buteme

Charlotte Mudoola

Emmanuella Oroma

Aisha Bahhani

Irene Namapii

Kjersti Garfors

Grace Athieno

Claire being tackled.

Wazee game - 28th August

2010-09-13T15:45:00.005+03:00

Ok. So come 28th the Wazee couldn't raise a full 15 aside team so we started off playing 10s then later on 12s.

The first half was great. We held them and they had 5 tries and we had 3. Then the second half was a disaster as we kept spilling the ball at he kickoffs. They scored 5 tries off our mistakes in the kick off. We then pulled ourselves together and our fitness started to show in the last 15 minutes of the second half as we scored 3 tries. Final score was 65 - 32. 2 tries each from Emma, Charlotte and Regina with the sole conversion by me.

Fortunate Irankunda

Dominica Kulia

Loy Mbabazi

Hellen Gizamba (captain)

Gladies Ayio-Rwoth

Brenda Kayiyi

Aisha Bahhani

Beatrice Atim

Regina Athieno

Irene Namapii

Claire Anena

Helen Buteme

Charlotte Mudoola

Esther Nangobi

Rosemary

Joan Andika

Emmanuella Oroma

James

Post game quotes:

Mike 'undertaker' Wandera: I could not believe it when I saw you ladies playing. You're so strong and fit and aggressive. It's unbelievable how you took on the men without flinching - when is the next game? I think I want to play.

Solo 'mercenary': You guy. I couldn't move for 3 days after that game. You girls are fit and hard. There was a winger who stepped me that I couldn't even chase after her. I had to let her go.

Mabonga: You girls played very well. Don't underestimate yourselves. As much as we are unfit, we are still men -we're harder and we're faster and we are also much stronger so don't feel bad that you lost.

Name withheld: Someone squeezed my crown jewels and put me out of action for a couple of nights. You girls are vicious.

Wazee game - 14th August

2010-09-13T15:15:00.008+03:00

So we had a 15 aside game against the Wazee on 14th August. They had 2 mercenaries aged below 30 years but it was a great game - big hits, great runs. Final score was 37 - 15. The gap is closing.

The Wazee were so battered and bruised and most could not get to work on Monday while others were unable to jog for 2 weeks after that game.

Fortunate Irankunda

Dominica Kulia

Loy Mbabazi

Hellen Gizamba

Gladies Ayio-Rwoth

Brenda Kayiyi

Aisha Bahhani

Beatrice Atim

Regina Athieno

Irene Namapii

Claire Anena

Prossy Nakakande

Helen Buteme

Charlotte Mudoola

James

Some post game quotes:

Isma: I must confess I was in alot of pain on Saturday after the game, but iam fine cant wait for the rematch on 28th I need to make up for the mistakes, but it was a pleasure plying against you girls.

Kyagaba: Body aches. I couldn't turn in my bed ... some chic kept kusunsling (pinching) me in the pack. My wife saw the body marks ... I had not told her I was going to play rugby that afternoon ... I needed a massage, you guy, I will have to train next time: these things of going live without preparing the body ...

Guma: Thanks for the great game. As you said the gap is closing, the panthers are really improving and chief they are very aggressive and are not very soft either. Come 28th though you'll be in for a surprise we are going to reorganise ourselves and play a more structured game. Your girls have been hanging around the PIRATES for too long, they have even adapted some funny habits in the mauls.

Return leg Elgon Cup

2010-09-13T15:03:00.003+03:00

Ok. I've neglected the blog yet again. For the return leg of the Elgon cup: Lady Cranes departed on 8th July at 9am and were involved in a nasty bus accident in Jinja. By some miracle everyone in the bus survived and apart from some knocks and bruises there were no serious injuries so the players opted to continue with their journey to Nairobi. Another bus picked them up and they arrived in Nairobi on 9th July at 4am.

Both the women's coaches opted to abandon the women at the 11th hour. URU was unaware that the coaches were not travelling and therefore had not made plans for a replacement. Come match day the Lady Cranes took to the pitch coachless but determined to win. We started off well and kept the Kenyans pinned in their half for the first 20 minutes of the game. Good enough along the way, former Lady Cranes 7s coach, David Mutaka (Mutaks) stepped in to help - it was tough for him as he didn't know three quarters of the players but he did a great job considering. However, we lost steam and the Kenyans got back into the game. We lost 16 - 8 (try by Emmanuella Oroma and penalty by Christine Kizito). And lost the Elgon Cup for the second running on aggregate (21 - 16).

Lady Cranes won 8 - 5

2010-07-07T23:01:00.004+03:00

Ok, so Regina got to start and although she only played 20 minutes she made a fantastic try saving tackle. Kenyan winger intercepted the ball in their 22 and scampered to our 22. She looked like she'd go all the way but Gina chased and got her in our 22.

We won 8 - 5. Try by Fortunate and penalty by Christine. We could have done better. Yes, a win is a win but really ...

The return match is this Saturday (10th July). We travel by bus to Nairobi tomorrow.

Squad to Nairobi.

Forwards

Fortunate Irankunda (Black Panthers)

Warry Nambirige (Thunderbirds)

Christine Kizito (Thunderbirds)

Jackie Musoke (Thunderbirds)

Evelyn Aweku (Vice captain - Thunderbirds)

Hellen Gizamba (Black Panthers)

Rosenburg Kanyunyuzi (Thunderbirds)

Aaliyah Adania (Thunderbirds)

Rebecca Akwenyu (Black Panthers)

Sylvia Ajok (Black Panthers)

Josephine Namayega (Black Panthers)

Backs

Regina Athieno (Black Panthers)

Claire Anena (Black Panthers)

Harriet Kayonjo (Thunderbirds)

Asha Nakityo (Thunderbirds)

Prossy Nakakande (Captain - Black Panthers)

Hadijah Namuyanja (Thunderbirds)

Charlotte Mudoola (Black Panthers)

Beatrice Atim (Black Panthers)

Brenda Kayiyi (Black Panthers)

Emmanuella Oroma (Black Panthers)

Helen Buteme (Black Panthers)

Updates

2010-07-02T13:25:00.003+03:00

Ok. I've neglected this blog for a while. The national team (Lady Cranes) travelled to Nairobi. Our tiny Regina started the game and finished the full 80 minutes. She was playing at scrumhalf and was simply awesome. She passed, she commanded the pack, she defended. Great stuff Gina but despite that we lost 8 - 0. Not good.

The first Elgon cup leg is this Saturday so we get to revenge.

11 Panthers on the squad. According to newspaper reports with Rose back the coach is undecided on whether to start her or the impressive Regina (http://www.newvision.co.ug/D/8/30/724376). The full team is

1. Christine Kizito (Thunderbirds)

2. Fortunate Irankunda (Black Panthers)

3. Warry Nambirige (Thunderbirds)

4. Evelyn Aweku (V/C -Thunderbirds)

5. Winnie Atyang (Thunderbirds)

6. Aaliya Adania (Thunderbirds)

7. Hellen Gizamba (Black Panthers)

8. Josephine Namayega (Black Panthers)

9. Rosenburg Kanyunyuzi (Thunderbirds)

10. Harriet Kayonjo (Thunderbirds)

11. Prossy Nakakande (Captain - Black Panthers)

12. Beatrice Atim (Black Panthers)

13. Brenda Kayiyi (Black Panthers)

14. Charlotte Mudoola (Black Panthers)

15. Helen Buteme (Black Panthers)

16. Rebecca Akwenyu (Black Panthers)

17. Jackie Musoke (Thunderbirds)

18. Claire Anena (Black Panthers)

19. Regina Athieno (Black Panthers)

20. Asha Nakityo (Thunderbirds)

21. Mary Kyoita (Thunderbirds)

22. Hadija Namuyanja (Thunderbirds)

Team manager: Edmond Owor

Assistant team manager: Anne Alan

Coach: Henry Musoke

Assistant coach: Ronnie Lutakome

Lady Cranes depart for Nairobi

2010-05-19T23:25:00.006+03:00

Lady Cranes travel to Nairobi by road using Kampala Coach. They leave at 6.30 on Thursday morning. Once again ICEMARK-Uganda has come through and sponsored the ladies. The team remains largely intact with a couple of changes on the bench due to the unavailability of some players due to work commitments. Our pint sized Regina makes it onto the team. Yeehaaaaaaaaaa. Go Gina. Gina's inclusion on the team means that Black Panthers take up 12 slots out of the 22.

The Black Panthers on the final 22:

Rebecca Akwenyu (hooker/lock)

Claire Anena (flyhalf/flanker)

Regina Athieno (scrumhalf)

Beatrice Atim (centre/flanker)

Aisha Bahhani (back row)

Helen Butem (utility back)

Hellen Gizamba (utility forward)

Fortunate Irankunda (prop/hooker)

Brenda Kayiyi (centre/flanker)

Charlotte Mudoola (utility back)

Prossy Nakakande (utility back)

Josephine Namayega (number 8/lock)

Keep up the hard work ladies and go kick butt!

Lady Cranes survive

2010-05-09T15:32:00.005+03:00

Lady Cranes narrowly escaped their first defeat at home after making a splendid comeback in the last minutes of their game against Kenya.

The Ugandans were down to 14 in the last 10 minutes of the first half when centre referee, Denis Anguyo, sent flanker Hellen Gizamba to the sin bin for a retaliatory uppercut on Kenya's flyhalf. Credit to the forwards for remaining superior in the scrums and lineouts and for the entire team for keeping the Kenyans off the scoresheet at that time. Despite turning over the Kenyans at their scrumdowns and rucks, stealing lineouts and having possession for a good deal of the game, the Ugandans fail to make the most of it and instead gave away two silly tries through missed tackles and a clearance kick charged down in the ingoal.

The score was 0 - 0 at halftime but the Kenyans scored shortly after the break but missed the conversion. Uganda twice came close to scoring but fluffed their chances and instead the Kenyan women scored again with about 20 minutes to go. The conversion was again missed and the Kenyans looked that they would beat Lady Cranes in Uganda for the first time ever but Lady Cranes scored twice through Fortunate Irankunda and Rosenburg Kanyunyuzi in the last 10 minutes of the game to level the score. Both conversions were missed so Lady Cranes settled for a 10 - 10 draw.

Return leg is in Nairobi on May 22nd. Lady Cranes are sponsored by ICEMARK. Bamburi has not put any money into the women's games during this series. I guess we do not give them enough mileage.

The Lady Cranes team

1. Christine Kizito - Thunderbirds

2. Rosenburg Kanyunyuzi - Thunderbirds

3. Fortunate Irankunda - Black Panthers

4. Evelyn Aweku (Vice captain) - Thunderbirds

5. Winnie Atyang - Thunderbirds (Dorothy Nekesa)

6. Aaliya Adania - Thunderbirds

7. Hellen Gizamba - Black Panthers

8. Josephine Namayega - Black Panthers

9. Prossy Nakakande (Captain) - Black Panthers

10. Claire Anena - Black Panthers (Mary Kyoita)

11. Charlotte Mudoola - Black Panthers

12. Brenda Kayiyi - Black Panthers (Joan Namuyomba)

13. Beatrice Atim - Black Panthers

14. Hadijah Namuyanja - Thunderbirds

15. Helen Buteme - Black Panthers

16. Patricia Ayebazibwe - Thunderbirds

17. Rebecca Akwenyu - Black Panthers

18. Dorothy Nekesa - Thunderbirds

19. Aisha Bahhani - Black Panthers

20. Joan Namuyomba - Thunderbirds

21. Asha Nakityo - Thunderbirds

22. Mary Kyoita - Thunderbirds

Head coach: Henry Musoke

Assistant coach: Bobby Musinguzi

Team manager: Anne Alan Sizomu

Team doctor: Joseph Kalanzi

11 Black Panthers make it to the final 22

2010-05-09T15:20:00.004+03:00

Eleven Black Panthers players were selected to the Lady Cranes 15 aside squad for the women's international against Kenya.

Rebecca Akwenyu (hooker/lock)

Claire Anena (flyhalf/flanker)

Beatrice Atim (centre/flanker)

Aisha Bahhani (flanker)

Helen Buteme (utility back)

Hellen Gizamba (utility forward)

Fortunate Irankunda (prop/hooker)

Brenda Kayiyi (centre/flanker)

Charlotte Mudoola (winger/scrumhalf)

Prossy Nakakande (utility back)

Josephine Namayega (number 8/lock)

Well done ladies.

Emmanuella Oroma (winger) missed a call up as she fractured and dislocated her wrist during the trials 2 weeks prior to the game.

Multi-talented athletes

2010-04-19T14:02:00.003+03:00

Our fastest players, Emmanuella Oroma and Regina Athieno took part in the national athletics trials at Namboole on Saturday. Emma raced in the senior category while Regina was in the juniors. Both ran the 100 and 200 metres while Emma also tried out her had at javelin. Regina won her events while Emma placed 4th.

Emma running the 100. She came 4th.

Regina leading the field in 100. She finished 1st.

Regina (blue top) running the 200. She won.

Emma (yellow top and bottoms) running the 200. She came 4th.

Emma having a go at the javelin.

Pirated Panthers

2010-04-11T20:47:00.006+03:00

Brenda, Charlotte and Helen (myself) featured for Pirates 2 again this weekend. Charlotte was at scrumhalf, Brenda at 1st centre and myself at fullback. Our opponents were Boks and we won: 42 - 12 was the score. Our last game to close the reserve league will be on March 27th versus KK Lions.

Helen (in red head gear), Charlotte (in black head gear), and Brenda (standing next to Charlotte).

Mid week gym

2010-04-09T10:33:00.002+03:00

Helen

Becky

Beatrice

Charlotte

Irene

Week 2 for Anne in the gym

2010-04-09T10:14:00.003+03:00

3 Black Panthers feature for Pirates 2

2010-03-28T12:07:00.005+03:00

Last year, I (Helen) played 60 minutes for Pirates 2 on the wing against Rams in the shield Uganda Cup semifinal. We won that game and I went ahead to warm the bench in the final (that we lost to Boks). This year, I featured for Pirates 2 (on the wing and at scrumhalf) in a loss to KK Lions and after that game Brenda Kayiyi and Charlotte Mudoola also signed for Pirates 2. Yesterday the 3 of us played in the game against Buffaloes 2. Charlotte at scrumhalf, Brenda in the centres and I at flyhalf although I moved to fullback in the second half and when Charlotte was subbed I switched to scrumhalf. Once again we lost but we had lots of fun, except when Charlotte got punched in the face in the second half - although she wanted to continue playing she could not see out of one eye so she had to be substituted.

People think we are nuts to play against guys (we probably are) but we need to play in the shield if we are to up our game. We do not get enough game time and we do not get much of a challenge playing against the Thunderbirds. On the other hand, the guys are faster and stronger (but not too big such that we cannot handle them) so we have to raise our game to match theirs and include brain power as well. We have a game against Boks coming up on April 10th and we are so looking forward to it.

Black Panthers at the 2009 URU awards night

2010-03-27T11:58:00.003+03:00

Helen (I have no clue who that dude next to me is).

Left to right: Becky, Anne and Helen. The founders of women's rugby in Uganda. The 3 of us left hockey and started playing touch rugby with the Heathens to keep fit and along the way other women joined us and we turned to contact. It's unbelievable what women's rugby has managed to achieve.

The sisters: Irene and Helen.

Brenda and Helen.

Prossy, Helen, Brenda, Domi, Anne.

The 'grandmothers of Black Panthers: Irene, Becky.

Prossy.

Anne, Brenda.

Black Panthers beauties

2010-03-27T11:37:00.005+03:00

Left to right. Standing: Domi, Irene, Yogi. Sitting: Becky, Prossy.

Sylvia, Aisha, Sexy, Claire.

Beatrice, Emma, Fortunate, Yogi.

Anne, Prossy, Becky, Brenda, Domi.

Anne, Domi, Brenda.

Emma, Beatrice.

Sexy, Claire.

Prossy, Sylvia.

Becky, Prossy.

Foxy's vixens - post game (20 03 10)

2010-03-22T14:44:00.003+03:00

A very proud Foxy and his vixens.

Isma, Davy and Kasasa mix with pedigree.

Plucking feathers - pictures from 20 03 10

2010-03-22T00:42:00.003+03:00

Gina clears the ball from the base of the ruck.

Aisha nailing Christine.

Beatrice secures a lineout.

Action pictures - 20 03 2010

2010-03-22T00:02:00.005+03:00

Gina manages to get the ball away to Claire.

Coach Helen gives a half time pep talk.

Bryo and Foxy add their thoughts.

Tight defence.

Fortunate preps herself to take down Christine - she succeeded.

Emma scores the second of her 3 tries.

Charlotte attempts a conversion from the 15 -i t did not go in but it was still a bloody good kick.

Bodies on the line - pictures from 20 03 2010

2010-03-21T23:16:00.007+03:00

Bird walking to the sin bin after being shown a yellow card for back chat.

Emma puts her shoulder in - she's no highway.

NO! They did not make it over our line on this occasion.

Black Panthers de-feather Thunderbirds

2010-03-21T21:46:00.003+03:00

We took on took on the birds for our last 15's league fixture on 20th March. We were so psyched up and we wanted to win in style. Our worry was that we would put ourselves under pressure to perform well and choke instead. We started with our usual warm up of freeball that had us sweating and 'warm' (though we were nearer hot than warm). We followed that with body checking each other to make sure our shoulders were ready to make tackles and take on the big hits.

We had a few positional changes to the lineup: Brenda was starting the game at flanker away from her usual position in the centre with Prossy moving from fullback to 12. Helen (me) moved from 10 to fullback while Claire moved from number 8 to flyhalf. Aisha took Claire's place at 8. The rest of the team stayed put.

We started the game with fire with Prossy and Beatrice combining well in the centres to set up Emma and Charlotte on the wing. It was to be a good day for the pair as Emma entertained the crowd with her powerful runs combined with her trademark handoffs while Charlotte was a handful on the other wing weaving her way through the birds and playing an effective chip and chase game. Emma ruffled their feathers when she scored 10 minutes into the game and Charlotte made good with the extras. 10 minutes later Charlotte scored a try after collecting a kick put through for her but missed the conversion. We dominated possession and it looked like we were going to run away with the game. However, we did not get over the line again but instead let the birds over ours with 10 minutes left in the first half. Suddenly the Thunderbirds were back in the game. Hard tackling from the Panthers kept them out of our ingoal. The score at halftime was 12-05.

We started the second half in the same vein as the first: Emma scored twice within 15 minutes and Charlotte was successful with one of the conversions to take us up to 24 points. We relaxed and 5 minutes later the birds scored and converted to halve our lead. That rejuvenated us and we stepped up the heat. With 10 minutes of the game to go Charlotte danced her way through the birds to score her second try and Helen (me) converted it to increase our lead further. At that point the birds feathers were all but plucked out and Sylvia completed the task when she came in to replace Irene and 2 minutes later put her name on the scoresheet. The conversion was missed but the final score was 36 - 12.

The game was fantastic and everyone put in their all but Charlotte and Emma were nominated as the Black Panthers' MVPs. We are the UWRA 2010 10's and 15's champions. It's just 7's left to claim.

Next up will be internationals - Bamburi Series and Elgon Cup and then way later in the year (October I think) it will be back to club action where we will have the UWRA 7's.

Another Saturday morning in the gym

2010-03-14T22:21:00.003+03:00

Helen

Beatrice cries as she presses.

Charlotte powercleans 35kgs.

Brenda doing lunges with 20+ kg dumbbells.

Supergirl

2010-03-14T22:13:00.003+03:00

Gina pressing 30kgs.

Gina doing hack squats with 50kgs.

Gina shows off her flexibility.

Sexy - back in the gym after a long hiatus

2010-03-14T22:05:00.002+03:00

Gym virgins

2010-03-14T21:57:00.002+03:00

Technically, she is not as this is Day 2 for Sylvia in the gym.

Day 1 for Domi.

Day 1 for Harriet.

Day 1 for Becky.

Some links to check out

2010-03-09T20:05:00.002+03:00

Kalie Gold, a member of the 2006 Brown University that toured Uganda, revisits Kyadondo Rugby Club and takes in the Black Panthers versus Greenhill boys game

http://kaliegold.wordpress.com/2010/03/07/back-to-kyandondo/

An interview with the IRB - 60 seconds with Helen Buteme

http://www.irb.com/newsmedia/womensrugby/newsid=2036197.html#seconds+with+helen+buteme

Enjoy.

Pictures of Black Panthers versus TB - 06.03.10

2010-03-07T18:47:00.002+03:00

Black Panthers take the 2010 UWRA 10's title

2010-03-07T13:11:00.006+03:00

Another muddy game but luckily enough the sun was shining. We got off to a very good start in the first half and scored 2 tries through Helen Buteme and Hellen Gizamba (aka Sexy). Sexy's try was something else all together. After a great run by Charlotte from our 22 she was tackled about 30 metres from the try line. Brenda was close by to ruck in support and Sexy arrived split seconds after and picked up the ball without breaking stride. In one motion she handed off a hapless bird and loped all the way to the try line. Her speed shocked everyone - her teammates included. We are not sure how she managed to run so fast without lifting her feet off the ground and with her knees firmly together. The second half saw us pinned in our 22 and eventually the birds scored. Final score: 10 - 5. Ugh! We'd wanted a clean sheet. All the same we'll take the win.

Beatrice, our long legged giraffe, was outstanding in the lineouts and stole most of the birds' throw ins. Our tight 5 was fantastic and gave the heavier Thunderbirds hell at the scrums. Brenda played at hooker in scrums but in the lineouts she reverted to centre - our centres are really versatile: Beatrice switches from centre to become a jumper in the lineouts. Everyone was on form with the forwards turning over a lot of ball in the rucks and the backs (Charlotte, Prossy, Brenda, Beatrice) playing beautiful free flowing rugby but the outstanding player was our pint sized scrumhalf, Regina, who was all over the place and her ball distribution spot on. This win is dedicated to Emma, who had a family bereavement on the eve of the game. Our thoughts are with you Emma during this sad time.

As we won the first UWRA 10's (07 - 05) we are the 2010 UWRA 10's champions. Thunderbirds won it last year.

We're left with one more 15's league game and we will be hosting at Kampala Rugby Club. Currently we're ahead by 2 points.

Black Panthers versus Greenhill boys pictures - 6th March

2010-03-05T16:28:00.002+03:00

The quality of the some of the pictures is not so good but all the same, here they are.

Action from the Black Panthers vs Greenhill boys game

2010-03-05T16:15:00.002+03:00

Pictures for Black Panthers vs Greenhill boys - 6th March

2010-03-05T16:05:00.003+03:00

Tunnel after the game

Deflated

2010-02-28T14:07:00.002+03:00

We had such psyche for the game but Thunderbirds chickened out of it. Apparently they had picked up injuries (the entire team?!?) during our game last weekend so they opted not to play!!! We were so disappointed. Good thing there had been a school boy 7's tournament that morning and Greenhill were still around. We played a 10 aside game which we lost then we played a 15 aside game which we won. It was fantastic. I'll upload the pictures later.

After that I (Helen) played for Pirates II against KK Lions. I started off on the wing then moved to scrumhalf in the second half. It was fun but I was absolutely knackered after.

Thunderbirds versus Black Panthers - 20.02.10 pictures

2010-02-21T09:26:00.004+03:00

Pre- game warm up.

Thunderbirds versus Black Panthers - 20.02.10

2010-02-21T08:47:00.004+03:00

Halftime - Charlotte and Brenda plot.

Tunnel after the game.

Post-game blues.

Black Panthers lose to Thunderbirds at Makerere

2010-02-21T08:29:00.004+03:00

We lost a game we should have won. Aargh. After dominating play, we made 3 costly errors that led to 2 tries and 1 penalty. Final score 13 - 05. Credit to Thunderbirds: they capitalised on our errors and as we were in attack we had no defence in place and they ended up scoring. We on the other hand failed to convert possession into points and our lineouts failed to fire. We're going to work on that this week. No point in playing beautiful rugby and losing the game. Emma and Irene were unavailable (Emma was writing exams and Irene had travelled to South Africa) so Claire moved from number 8, first to scrumhalf and Regina moved out to the wing. However, it wasn't working out so Claire moved out to the wing and Regina back to scrumhalf. Syliva got to start and Jane came off the bench for Sylvia. Our 2 centres, Brenda and Beatrice were breaking the gain line at will and Charlotte had a blinder on the wing. She ended up scoring a beautiful try in the corner. This time round our tackling was solid and we denied them tries off their own moves. But it's not good enough to do all the right things except scoring.

Next game is at Kyadondo Rugby Club at 1pm next Saturday. We need to redeem our selves.

Next game at Makerere University

2010-02-18T18:46:00.004+03:00

We take on Thunderbirds at Makerere University this Saturday at 3pm. Brian Power, the Impis coach, is starting a women's team at Makerere University. Hopefully, female university students watching this game will get attracted to the beautiful game of rugby.

Saturday morning in the gym

2010-02-18T18:26:00.008+03:00

Irene

Helen

Claire looks to the ceiling for inspiration.

Charlotte

Brenda pushing 18 kgs with a bit of assistance from Yanga.

Some of the Black Panthers with gym instructor, Shao.

Gym time

2010-02-18T18:17:00.004+03:00

Gina squats 40kgs.

Day 1 for Sylvia

Beatrice

Aisha

Hillwork is a form of torture

2010-02-18T18:11:00.002+03:00

Yogi leads the way.

We hate the hill - we really do!

2010-02-18T17:58:00.004+03:00

Brenda makes her way up while Beatrice takes a breather on the side.

Prossy, Helen, Regina and Charlotte go for gold.

Beatrice recovers sufficiently to make her way up.

Grace, Sexy and Harriet.

Beatrice and Sylvia.

Grace and Harriet push their way to the top.

Sylvia

Pictures of Black Panthers versus TB - 06.02.10

2010-02-17T22:56:00.004+03:00

Warming up.

You may be big but we'll hold our own (and they did).

Beatrice way up in the air.

Pictures of Black Panthers versus TB - 6th Feb 2010

2010-02-17T22:50:00.003+03:00

Get away from our try line!

You are so not scoring!

Anne and Becky telling us that we're all hopeless.

Pictures of Black Panthers versus TB - 6th Feb

2010-02-17T22:24:00.002+03:00

Don't we look good in our jerseys?

A Thunderbird stretchered off with a concussion after trying to tackle Brenda.

Tunnel at the end of the game.

Aisha Bahhani's last minute try saves Black Panthers

2010-02-17T22:12:00.005+03:00

I've been so busy that I haven't had the time to update our blog.

We hosted the Thunderbirds at Kampala Rugby Club on 6th Feb. The first half started off well. Charlotte kicked off and our forwards chased and their forwards knocked on. We won our scrum and took the game right up into their faces. After 10 minutes of pressure on them without actually scoring, the tables turned and the rest of the half was a disaster for us - missed tackles, aimless play, confusion all round. Eish. Only our lineouts looked good - they were too good that the Thunderbirds stopped bothering to contest. Gladies' thrwoing was flawless and Beatrice, ably supported by Sexy and Yogi was a joy to watch in the air. In defence, Aisha stole a couple of birds' lineouts. The forwards scrummaged well and held their own against a heavier pack. We only lost 2 scrums but we stole 2 scrums so that evened it. The Thunderbirds took advantage and pinned us in our own half. Determined defence kept the damage to one unconverted try. We went into half time trailing 5 - 0. The second half was a different story. It was all us. Regina was all over the place and at one point took a run and it took 2 birds to get her down after she dragged them for about 5 metres. She was the deserved MVP of the game. The backline finally fired and we played our game. The only problem is that we failed to get over the try line, expect in the last minute of the game where Aisha showed good power to hold off 3 birds and drive over the tryline to score in the corner. Charlotte missed the kick so the game ended at 5 - 5. Not a result to be proud of. Anne was so upset with our performance that she has resumed training in a bid to give the forwards competition for their numbers. Well in, Anne. Domi and Becky have followed her example and can be seen alongside Anne, huffing and puffing and holding their waists. Sweet!

Next game sees us take on the birds again but this time at Makerere University. It will be the first time that a women's game has been hosted at Makerere.

We love the gym ... not

2010-01-30T10:26:00.004+03:00

Aisha

Gina

Brenda

Black Panthers fall to the Wazee again

2010-01-30T10:14:00.005+03:00

Black Panthers lost yet again to the Wazee in their game last Saturday. The Wazee were unable to raise numbers for the game but enlisted the help of 2 youngsters to get their numbers up to 10 and the 2 teams agreed to play a 10 aside version of the game. Along the way, the Wazee added 2 more youngsters to their ranks and the game became 12 aside.

Guma, Arthur Mugweri and Gordon were making their debuts and thouroughly enojoyed themselves while Fabian burned out after scoring 2 tries. Regina famously chased down Kasasa and Fabian on separate occasions and felled them just before the try line while Brenda put in her customary earth shaking tackles. Emma gave her trademark handoff to a hapless Gordon in what was, by her standards, a quiet game for her.

I lost count of the tries but like last time, we managed to string together some good phases of attack and our defence line was standard. Yes, I know the oldies got through but it's hard work tackling a man plus his pot belly time and time again.

Eventually, the oldies starting pleading with Charlie (the match referee) to end the game early as their unfitness kicked in and we got into high gear. Charlie initially mercilessly ignored them but when they started buckling at the knees he gave in whistled for the end of the game.

Brenda and Beatrice got over the try line for us while Charlotte made good with the extras. The Wazee awarded MVP to the shortest and the tallest girls on the pitch, that is, Regina and Beatrice.

Well done ladies, we’ll fell them yet.

The UWRA 15’s league starts on 6^th February.

Foxy hands over new jerseys to his vixens

2010-01-30T09:29:00.006+03:00

Black Panthers received a strip of new jerseys from their patron Foxy. The new jerseys are green - Kampala Rugby Union Football Club's official colour. The green strip will be our home strip while the white strip handed to us last year by Catherine Spencer, the England women's captain, will be our away strip.

Prossy tries on the new jersey.

Regina (11) shows her delight at finally being able to wear a jersey instead of the jersey wearing her while Gladies strikes a more somber pose for the camera.

Black Panthers pose with their patron, Foxy.

Foxy's vixens

Wazee tentative lineup

2010-01-22T14:47:00.004+03:00

Even without Jim Middleton, the Wazee look formidable as Brain Makalama and Mark Kyagaba look to retain their positions as props. Brian Makalama is still pained by the memory of the last game where he was denied about 3 tries as every time he got into the 5, six Black Panthers jumped on him and so thwarted every attempt he made to touch down. Makalama, Tolbert Onyango (Toly) and David Mutaka (Mutaks) will be teammates for the 3 o'clock but at 5 o'clock Tolbert and Mutaks will face off against Makalama in the Toyota Buffaloes - G4S Super 8 clash. A fitness test for the 3? We shall see.

Sam Ahamya has threatened to sack his employee, Charlotte Mudoola, if she tackles him or embarrasses him in any way during the game. Charlotte is sure that she will do both of those and has already sued Ahamya in advance for wrongful dismissal. The battle on the pitch looks set to roll into the law courts.

Samuel Guma, William Blick, Paul Nyangabyaki, Martin Kasasasira, Andrew Okullo, Denis Odongkara, Arthur Mugweri and Andrew Owiny are set to make their debuts and most are not quite sure what to expect from the ladies as they did not watch the last game. Dr Guma ensured that he took time last week to train with us and after carrying out his spying mission, he threatened to bar some players from playing on medical grounds - apparently they were running to fast or were hitting too hard so must be undergoing some unusual hormonal changes making them more like boys and continuing to play rugby would be detrimental to their health. Coincidentally, the players he wanted to stop from playing were the ones giving him the hardest time during the session ...

Meanwhile Issa Issa will be disappointed this weekend as he will be unable to play after weeks of training for this game. He popped his shoulder while practicing diving over the try line during a training session. He had anticipated scoring a brace of tries on his debut. He will, however, be relegated to watching the action from the sidelines tomorrow.

Foxy Ojambo and Ramsey Olinga will also miss the game as they will be on refereeing duty. David Kirabira is fortunate that he will be free so he will share the scrumhalf duties with Bobby Musinguzi. It is a complete coincidence that Kirabira is in charge of allocating the match officials ...

Dennis Anguyo returns as the match referee.

The Wazee team

1. Mark Kyagaba/Martin Kasasira

2. George Mbalu/Ismail Kasaija

3. Brian Makalama

4. Sam Ahamya

5. Eddie Owor

6. Fabian Tonda/Paul Nyangabyaki

7. Henry Musoke/Andrew Okullo

8. Solomon Ssendigya

9. David Kirabira/Bobby Musinguzi/Erika Wanda

10. Samuel Guma/Tolbert Onyango

11. Alex Kalimugogo/William Blick

12. Yayiro Kasasa/Denis Odongkara

13. Arthur Mugweri/Geoffrey Mabonga

14. David Mutaka/Andrew Owiny

15. Herbert Wafula/Ronnie Kaddu

Team managers: Issa Issa and George Mbalu

Amended laws for the game

1) The game will be played in quarters i.e. there will be a 3 minute beer break in each half as well as the usual 10 minute half time break.

2) Rolling substitutions will be allowed.

3) The vets may not push the scrum more than 1 metre (if that happens then a full penalty).

4) The vets may not drive the same maul continuously for more than 10 metres (if that happens then a full penalty).

Don't miss this game!!!

Black Panthers take on the Wazee again

2010-01-22T10:54:00.003+03:00

Black Panthers take on the Wazee tomorrow, at 3pm at Kampala Rugby Club, in what promises to be another mouth watering clash. Reigning MVP Alex Kalimugogo will most likely make a switch from playing at number 8 to the wing where he will have to contend with either Charlotte Mudoola or Emmanuella Oroma, our pacers, who missed the last encounter due to illness/injury. Tolbert Onyango and David Mutaka have been training with the Toyota Buffaloes to boost their fitness levels and even featured in a Super 8 game last weekend for some much needed game time. Dr Samuel Guma, Arthur Mugweri, Paul Nyangabaki and William Blick also missed the last game but are ready to take to the pitch this time round. The Wazee will have to do without hard working Jim Middleton but have promised to teach us another lesson in rugby. We are really looking forward to it - BRING IT ON!

Black Panthers team

1. Fortunate Irankunda

2. Harriet Naggawa

3. Hellen Gizamba

4. Josephine Namayega

5. Gladies Ayio-Rwoth

6. Loy Mbabazi

7. Aisha Bahhani

8. Claire Anena (Captain)

9. Regina Athieno

10. Helen Buteme

11. Charlotte Mudoola

12. Beatrice Atim

13. Brenda Kayiyi

14. Emmanuella Oroma

15. Prossy Nakakande

16. Irene Namapii

17. Susan Muyama

18. Angela Athieno

19. Sylvia Awori

Team managers: Rebecca Akwenyu and Anne Alan

Wazee tentative lineup to be posted soon.

Black Panthers kick off season with a win

2010-01-18T22:35:00.002+03:00

After an off season spent in the gym, with eating and drinking done in our spare time, Black Panthers started off the season with a well deserved win over the Thunderbirds in the UWRA 10's competition. Emmanuella Oroma showed why she's the hottest new kid on the block several strong runs and finally crossing the try line to dot down underneath the posts. Charlotte Mudoola nailed the conversion to take Panthers ahead 07 - 00. Black Panthers then conspired not to score as they squandered several try scoring opportunities and were almost punished for that when Thunderbirds took advantage of a lapse in concentration to score a try between the posts. Lucikly the conversion was missed so Black Panthers escaped with a win.

We take on the Wazee on this Saturday at 3 at Kampala Rugby Club.

Black Panthers awards and party night

2009-12-07T23:21:00.002+03:00

Black Panthers had their end of year party on Saturday after the game with the Wazee. Before we got down to the 'serious' stuff, awards for the 2009 achievers were given out. The Black Panthers' patron, Foxy Ojambo, was on hand to present the awards.

For the second year running, Claire Anena received the Miss Black Panthers award. NO, we did not hold a beauty pageant. Miss Black Panthers is awarded to the person who gives her all to the club both on and off the pitch. 17 year old Regina scooped the 7's player of the year award while Beatrice Atim beat off competition from Brenda Kayiyi and Emmannuela Oroma to bag the 15's player of the year award. Emma Oroma got the Special Award: a trophy that goes to a player who stood out on pitch but was unlucky to miss out on the awards. Brenda Kayiyi deservedly got the Black Panthers player of the year award for the second year in a row.

Foxy handed over a new set of jerseys to the team captain, Prossy Nakakande with a promise to keep supporting the team.

With the unserious business done, we got down to the real purpose of the night: drinking and dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

Wazee - Panthers pictures

2009-12-07T23:14:00.003+03:00

More action pictures from Wazee game

2009-12-07T23:06:00.002+03:00

More Wazee - Black Panthers pictures

2009-12-07T10:15:00.002+03:00

Toly with hands on knees. He must be thinking 'What the hell am I doing here? I need this game to end now ...'

Wazee - Black Panthers pictures

2009-12-07T09:56:00.004+03:00

Farewell picture with Neva

Black Panthers prepare to receive a kick off

Wazee ready to receive a kickoff

Wazee chase after they kickoff

Scrum time - and we thought the Thunderbirds are heavy

Wazee overwhelm Black Panthers

2009-12-06T17:33:00.006+03:00

A hard fighting Black Panthers went down 61 - 21 to the Wazee. The Wazee walked in 4 easy tries in the first quarter. However, the second quarter saw Black Panthers stepping up their defence and hitting back with a try of their own. The Black Panthers showed good skills and aggression forcing the Wazee to change their laid back approach and work hard for possession. Although obviously unfit the Wazee were just too good for the ladies and limited them to just two more tries in the last quarter while piling in more of their own.

Jim Middleton's superb hooking starved the Panthers of ball in the scrum and his game was punctuated by galloping runs down the touchline before offloading to the winger then standing in that same spot (with his hands on his waist) recovering his breath and waiting for the ball to get back to him before he would set off again, causing havoc in the Panthers' defence. Jim was understandably knackered after and game and took about 10 minutes (aided by a few large gulps of restorative Bell lager) before he could talk to anyone. The Wazee named Jim their Man of the Match. Captain Alex Kalimugogo played 8th man as if he was trying out for the Uganda Rugby Cranes - his game was characterised by good 8th man picks, batting hapless Panthers out of his way on his rampaging runs that were sprinkled with the occasional side step. The traumatised ladies unanimously named him Man of the Match for the Wazee. Bobby Musinguzi suffered the ignominy of being the only player to be yellow carded in the game while Solomon Ssendigya, David Kirabira and Ramsey Olinga shared the gong for the most tackled and most fun to tackle Wazee. Kasasa's dummies were not bought and Mark Kyagaba was completely bamboozled by Brenda Kayiyi's sidestep. Brenda was playing at centre (12) but she was all over the pitch and her shuddering tackles stopped the Wazee in their tracks and her attacking game was brilliant. Small wonder that the Wazee unanimously named her Woman of the Match for the Black Panthers.

However, despite winning by such a large margin, the Wazee were impressed by way the Black Panthers played and have pledged to be available for more games next year. A second fixture has been tentatively set for January 16th 2009.

A few post match quotes from the Wazee:

Mark Kyagaba 'It's good that we had many players and could do rolling substitutuions otherwise we would be embarrased by these kids and playing the game in quarters has been helpful too.'

Sam Ahamya 'You ladies made a mistake agreeing to play in quarters. The quarters allowed the Wazee to recover. If the game had been in halves you might have won'.

Solomon Ssendigya ' The game that was!! Jim galloped like a 16year old spring chicken, the old foxy was up to his old tricks, mbalu re-invented the laws of the scrum and Kyagaba was left at 'sixes and sevens' by that STEP!! Totally priceless! To Helen and the girls, well done and keep working hard, to the absentees: Issa, Andrew,Nathan, Martin,Gumz, Arthur, Ham,William,Roger,Jonah,Paul, you gotta pay big for the 'gang' to repeat the performance!'

Herbert Wafula 'Despite the score, you ladies played a great game of rugby. Keep it up and don't become complacent'.

Ramsey Olinga 'You ladies hardened on us in the second quarter. Our gender was being threatened. We had to up our game and forget that you are women and play hard'.

Brian Makalama 'You played a great game. You actually scored 3 tries against us!'

Wazee name strong squad for Saturday's clash

2009-12-03T19:48:00.004+03:00

Last year, Kenya's top women's club (Mwamba Invaders) played the Mwamba Wazee, the women won the game. However, this Saturday, the game is in Uganda and will see the toughest women rugby players in Uganda (Black Panthers) facing off the Wazee. To stave off the possibility of defeat this weekend, the Wazee have named a strong squad. The Wazee team boasts of a number of former Ugandan internationals (and a couple of Kenyan internationals) including 6 players who played in the first ‘official’ Ugandan national team in 1997: Ian Walker and Jim Middleton played in the forwards while Yayiro Kasasa, Martin Kasasira, Rogers Sebina and Herbert Wafula were in the backs. Some of the wazee started off their rugby careers as backs but will now feature in the forwards to accommodate their loss in agility/pace and to celebrate their well earned extra weight. Black Panthers also boasts a number of international players (with the earliest cap being in 2005) including 4 players who were on the history making World Cup 7’s team: Brenda Kayiyi, Charlotte Mudoola, Helen Buteme and Prossy Nakakande. As promised here are tentative team lists for the weekend's match up.

Wazee

1. Mark Kyagaba/Henry Musoke

2. Jim Middleton/Jonathan Kamukama

3. Brian Makalama/George Mbalu

4. Sam Ahamya/Ian Walker/Eddie Owor

5. Martin Kasasira

6. Paul Nyangabyaki

7. Andrew Owor/Solomon Ssendigya

8. Herbert Wafula

9. David Kirabira/Fabian Tonda/Bobby Musinguzi

10. Tolbert Onyango/Yayiro Kasasa/Alex Kalimugogo

11. William Blick/David Mutaka

12. Issa Issa/Ramsey Olinga

13. Rogers Sebina

14. Andrew Owiny/Arthur Mugweri/Geoffrey Mabonga

15. Foxy Ojambo/Andrew Okullo

Team manager: George Mbalu

Black Panthers

1. Fortunate Irankunda

2. Loy Mbabazi

3. Hellen Gizamba

4. Gladys Ayiorwoth

5. Roselyn Papalita

6. Claire Anena

7. Aisha Bahanii

8. Josephine Namayega

9. Regina Athieno

10. Neva Lundy

11. Emmanuella Oroma

12. Beatrice Atim

13. Brenda Kayiyi

14. Charlotte Mudoola

15. Prossy Nakakande (Captain)

16. Angela Athieno

17. Kate

18. Rehema Kampiire

19. Shamim Najjemba

20. Helen Buteme

21. Irene Namapii

Team managers: Rebecca Akwenyu and Anne Alan Sizomu

Match referee: Dennis Anguyo

Wazee strong favourites in epic encounter

2009-12-01T13:14:00.002+03:00

With just a few days to go, a couple of the Wazee have been spotted at Kampala Rugby Club running around the pitch in a bid to get their fitness levels up for their clash against Black Panthers. Other Wazee have preferred to conduct their fitness sessions in the privacy of their backyards so as not to give too much away to the opponents. Some have joined the Black Panthers in their touch rugby games during training and after a couple of minutes of exertion resign themselves to holding their waists as they command their youthful teammates on which gaps to take in attack and which gaps to close in defence all the while claiming that they are on a spying mission. Others still have opted not to do anything that will waste their energy ahead of the game and have resorted to using pre-match psychological warfare against the Black Panthers. The Wazee go into the game as strong favourites but the undercats are looking to topple the veterans from their pedestals.

One former Ugandan international has complained that it is unlikely that he will be at his best during this epic encounter as he is used to playing in 40,000 seater stadiums and a crowd of less than 10,000 will not inspire him to show his trademark step and blistering pace. However, he has promised to come out with all guns blazing and hopes to put up a performance that will evoke memories of his heydays.

Both teams are psyched up and raring to go and this promises to be a highly entertaining match.

Black Panthers versus Wazee

2009-11-25T15:53:00.004+03:00

Black Panthers has challenged the Ugandan veterans (Wazee) to a 15 aside game. The game will take place at Kampala Rugby Club, 5pm on the 5th of December.

To highlight how seriously the Wazee are taking this game, they start training today at Kampala Rugby Club at 6pm. The vets will hope to use their superior experience, skills and weight to subdue the cheeky Black Panthers. However, Black Panthers are counting on their fitness and agility to outlast the aging (aged) stars.

Wazee team manager, George Mbalu, is not taking any chances and has appealed to School of Nursing to provide 20 nursing students to back up the Uganda Rugby Medical Society medics whom he feels will be overwhelmed by the muscle pulls, severe fatigue and dehydration that he anticipates will plague his players.

The game will be played in accordance with the IRB laws of 15 aside rugby with a few amendments:

1) The game will be played in quarters i.e. there will be a beer break in each half (vets to determine the length of the break but not more than 5 minutes) as well as the usual 10 minute half time break.

2) Rolling substitutions will be allowed.

4) The vets may not push the scrum more than 1 metre (if that happens then a full penalty).

5) The vets may not drive the same maul continuously for more than 10 metres (if that happens then a full penalty).

At present there is no amendment 3 - it will be revealed in due course.

Next week I'll reveal the Wazee team ...

Black Panthers versus Thunderbirds - 21 11 09

2009-11-22T12:19:00.004+03:00

The Black Panthers team

1. Fortunate Irankunda

2. Loy Mbabazi

3. Hellen Gizamba

4. Gladys Ayiorwoth

5. Angela Athieno (came off injured just after the 2nd half)

6. Aisha Bahanii - yellow card in 1st half

7. -

8. Claire Anena

9. Regina Athieno

10. Helen Buteme

11. Emma Oroma

12. Brenda Kayiyi

13. Beatrice Atim - BP MVP

14. Charlotte Mudoola - 1 try

15. Irene Namapii (came in just before the 2nd half)

Management

2009-11-22T12:10:00.002+03:00

Becky keeping an eye on the girls.

Prossy shows her frustration at not being on the pitch - being down with malaria on a match day sucks.

Gina

2009-11-22T12:03:00.002+03:00

Gina, our pint sized star player shows how it's done.

Gina, rests after the game.

Irene

2009-11-22T11:58:00.002+03:00

Irene warming up before joining us to briefly take our numbers up to 14. Not a moment too soon because Angela got injured and we were back down to 13.

Becky hands Irene her forgotten mouthguard.

More action

2009-11-22T11:49:00.000+03:00

Action

2009-11-22T11:38:00.003+03:00

Sexy tackling.

Loy tackling.

Kickoff.

Scrums

2009-11-22T10:59:00.003+03:00

Rose with the ball for Thunderbirds - Tiny Gina ready to harass Rose.
Heavyweight pack (~625kgs) versus lightweight pack (~458kgs): the wonderful girls on duty in the pack for Black Panthers

1. Fortunate Irankunda

2. Loy Mbabazi

3. Hellen Gizamba (Sexy)

4. Gladys Ayiorwoth

5. Angela Athieno

6. Aisha Bahanii

7. No one

8. Claire Anena

Despite being a lot lighter and one less (though when Angela got injured they were down to 6) the Black Panthers pack held their own in the scrums and managed to steal a few of the Thunderbirds put ins.

Lineouts

2009-11-22T09:42:00.005+03:00

Hellen aka Sexy in the lineout

Beatrice our giraffe reaches for the sky - Fortunate (in front) and Angela (behind) lifting her

13 woman Black Panthers hold Thunderbirds to a draw

2009-11-22T09:13:00.006+03:00

Black Panthers took on Thunderbirds yesterday in Entebbe in a curtain raiser game for the Super Cup. There was a lot of drama before we finally took to the pitch at 2.30pm. First off we had to do without the services of Yogi our first choice 8th man as her basketball team was in the finals of the basketball competition. Then Rose, one of our replacement locks had exams and Irene, one of our replacement backs had to attend a funeral so were down to 15. No problem until when I (Helen) got a text message in the morning from Neva (our flyhalf) that she was seriously ill and was unable to get out of bed. Now a slight problem. But I figured that we were fit so we'd handle whatever came out way although we'd miss Neva's fantastic kicking skills. Then Prossy, utility back and team captain informed us she had malaria and was unable to play. Ok, now that was the last straw. However, the girls were fantastic. They all committed themselves to play the game and promised to put their bodies on the line. And that is what each and every player did.

We started the game as 13 players and although Irene came just before half time to boost our numbers unfortunately Angela, our hard hitting lock, got injured and was unable to continue so we were back to 13 players. However, we were down to 12 for 10 minutes when Aisha got a yellow card for retaliating. Luckily for Black Panthers, Aalliya Adania the Thunderbirds flanker also got a yellow card for dirty play on Aisha so the Thunderbirds were down to 14. The Thunderbirds were further reduced to 13 when Evelyn Aweku was shown yellow for taking out Beatrice in the lineout which took some pressure off the Black Panthers somewhat. Later on in the game, Thunderbirds were down to 14 again when Rosenburg Kanyunyuzi was sent to the sin bin for a dangerous tackle on Emma.

After a scoreless first half, the referee awarded a try to Thunderbirds for what was clearly a knock on by Mary Kyoita in the in goal. However, Black Panthers hit back through a Charlotte Mudoola try right under the posts. I managed to miss the kick (unbelievable I know) and the final score was 05 - 05. The entire team was cursing me - still is actually.

Black Panthers soon had the crowd on their side for their pluckiness and the awesome display of rugby that they put up. The entire team played well but on this day the person who stood out the most was our lanky outside centre who was breaking the line at will and defending as if her life depended on it. She also doubled as a jumper in the lineouts and successfully stole a number of opposition lineouts.

Black Panthers woman of the match: Beatrice Atim

Random gym pictures

2009-11-17T21:33:00.007+03:00

Brenda

Neva

Helen

Emma

Prossy

Irene

Regina

Claire

Charlotte

There are two pains in life; the pain of discipline and the pain of regret ... we'll take the discipline.

Susan Muyama, a Panther who at the moment is too far away to be with us shares with us ...

2009-11-09T22:51:00.002+03:00

Girls, I am so glad to see how well all you guys are doing. You all look fit. I miss most the smell of the pitch. The wind in my ears and Claire's cheeky grins. The feel of playing on the wet pitch. I MISS IT! I MISS IT!

Gym, wow, Gina! You go girl. I can't say much but I thank God that you guys have made the choice to be different and take-over a male dominated arena. I hope to join next season. But looks like i'll get beat up on pitch. :-) i look forward to the pain. And the tries. God BLESS all you Black Panther angels. xxxxo!

Gym instructor Shao

2009-11-07T19:24:00.003+03:00

He likes to say 'Don't break my heart, sweetie' when one is on the verge of giving up. If that doesn't work he says, 'I'm going to kill you girl'. Either way, he gets his way.

Irene doing her favourite exercise

2009-11-07T17:43:00.002+03:00

Hack squats - the only exercise Irene does without squealing.

Beatrice shaping her legs

2009-11-07T17:32:00.002+03:00

The path to shapely legs is a steep one ...

Euro Panthers versus Pound Panthers

2009-11-05T13:13:00.000+03:00

Black Panthers split into 2 teams (Euros & Pounds) to play against each other during the Kitaka Memorial 7's last weekend. It came down with rain just after our game started but despite the wet ball and slippery conditions we were still able to entertain spectators with slick moves, hard running and big tackles. Euros won the game 15 - 00.

Euros (in white)

Fort, Emma, Gladys, Claire, Charlotte, Beatrice, Irene.

Pounds (in blue)

Rose, Aisha, Sexy, Gina, Brenda, Helen, Neva, Loy.

Regina striving to put on some much needed muscle mass

2009-11-05T11:53:00.001+03:00

Gina (weighing in at 44 kgs and less than 5 feet tall) is the tiniest but one of the most lethal members of the Black Panthers squad. The speedster has recently begun a campaign to hit 50 kgs before she turns 18 at the end of next year. Here she works at alternating dumbbell presses to fill out her arms. Good luck Gina!

Claire pressing the bench

2009-11-05T11:22:00.000+03:00

Coach Shao helps Claire out with the bench press.