Week 11

What a week?

Sadolin Mongers 19-55 Kobs Rugby Club

Impis Rugby Club 09-45 Hima Cement Heathens RFC

Toyota Buffaloes 26-17 SHELL Rimula Rhinos

Mutoni Warriors 03-34 Black Pirates

It was an exciting week that ended with some very shocking rugby at different venues. The most surprising results of the week were Mongers vs KOBS. KOBS buried their opponents in their own backyard which was not expected. We do not know what happened to the Sadolin Mongers and we surely didn't see this one coming.

But most surprising of all had to be Toyota Buffaloes against Rimula Rhinos at Kyadondo. This was supposed to be a very enticing game given the zeal of Rhinos who started the league as favorites but Buffaloes buried Rhinos' chances for the title. I do not think even the Rhinos players understand what happened in this game. It was the true definition of an upset. Buffaloes brought their A game and they won this clash of horns. 

Rams got a walkover against Gulu Elephant who still do not have their house in order.

Impis put up a good fight against Hima Cement Heathens in the first half 9 - 19 but failed to maintain that in the second half of the game which ended 9-45. In this game, we discovered that passion and determination goes a long way. Impis, this game was a battle well fought. To Heathens your focus added value to your win.

Black Pirates, if they continue on this trajectory, are likely to give us the season shocker. Pirates look to be more focused than ever before, winning against Warriors at Legends means they are the best performing team across the board. We a wait to see them this coming Friday against Toyota Buffaloes at Legends.

Well as for the Ladies games - Black Panthers 3 - Entebbe Ladies 10 and Thunderbirds 27 against Walukuba Titans all the way from Jinja managed to score 3 points. Slowly, this ladies under 19 game is picking up, they need all our support and we at 256 are already doing that. We would love you guys to join us support these amazing ladies and most importantly exceptional athletes. 

Week 11

Who will raise and who will fall? (Mongers vs. KOBS)

Mongers vs. KOBS

Buffaloes vs. Rhinos

Warriors vs. Pirates

Impis vs. Heathens

Gulu vs. RAMS

Mongers vs. KOBS; Sadolin Mongers looks to be a cracker as Mongers won't take it easy in their own backyard. If Kobs is not careful, Mongers might be the team to upset them according to their performance in the last few games. MOngers are on a mission and with their performance against Buffaloes last week, KOBS needs to come ready to be given a true run for their money. Players to watch in mongers will be John Wandicho, Adrian Wasswa and Ssegawa. With their team playing as one solid unit, mongers might use their forward more and will neutralise Kobs. In Kobs however, the mongers have to watch out for Ramathan Govule, Brian Odongo and Brian Asamba who might might cause a lot damage. With Rhinos breathing down their neck for the third position and Pirates pulling away, KOBS will play for their lives in this game. As a team, Kobs’ back line will sort out their opponents as always because it ever disappoints. If there is one thing the KOBS can depend on in this game it's their back line if everything fails. Joseph Aredo doesn't take loss lightly. Overall, it will be a very close game that whichever side will have done its homework better, will leave victorious. Maybe even with a bonus point. Who knows?

Buffaloes vs. Rhinos; Toyota Buffaloes look to beat Rimula Rhinos if they don't pull up their socks this Saturday at Kyadondo. Buffaloes after their heart wrenching defeat against Mongers last weekend, they might choose to take out their rage on the Rhinos. Rhinos will need to think extra careful on whom they're going to select for this game. With the slow start they had in the impis game and the close call they had last weekend with Warriors, Buffaloes might use this to their advantage. However they have Scot Oluoch’s power and Semwami’s speed to depend on for the last two weeks and these two guys can determine the pace for their entire team. Thus the players to keep an eye on will be Scot Oluoch (Man Mountain), Byron Otekayot and Snogy in the forward and in backline will be Jasper Ochen, Semwami Daudi and James Musiitwa. Buffaloes will have to rely more on the backs as they look to make the Rhinos forward work extra hard. Players to look at for on the Buffaloes side will be Kevin Kermudu, Pius Ogena, Maside Robert, Fred Odur and Solomon Okia.

The dust will definitely raise for this will be a true battle fought. (Buffaloes vs. Rhinos)

Warriors vs Black Pirates; Based on the way the Black Pirates have been playing, They would seem like the side to most likely win this won, But after Warriors almost shocked Rhinos last weekend, they are still very much still in the run for the victory in thi sgame. It won't be easy to crack the Warriors defense and determination thus the Pirates will have to careful plan and strateguse a way to overcome this challenge. Warriors will throw all they have at the Pirates including challenging them in the pack play. How the Pirates deal with this, will determine the outcome. It's had to call this game at the moment but we are hoping to see some fantastic rugby.  Players to watch out for in these two games will be Ivan Magomu and Conrad Wanyama for the Pirates and Owen Kinyera and Brian Seruyange for the warriors.

Impis vs Heathens; Heathens will win with a bonus point and all we have to wait to see is if Ssebuliba will have a killer performance like last weekend. However no matter the score of this game, the heathens will have to watch out for PJ. He brings his all every single game.

Gulu Elephants vs Rams; This game may or may not happen, however if it does happen, RAMS will have it in the bag though I highly doubt they will get a bonus point off Gulu.

Week 11 is looking to be a very good week to be watching rugby. Go out in large numbers and support your teams. Some very big games out there and even more chances to see some world class rugby play. Enjoy!

The Number 8.

Name; Marvin Odongo
Age; 24 years
Home location; Mutungo
Date of Birth; 12th November
Place of Birth; Kampala
Primary School; Kabojja Junior  School
Secondary School; Kings College Budo
University; Makerere University Kampala. (Bachelor in                                   Developmental Studies)
Profession; Development Economist
Weight; On season- 96KG Off season- 100KG
Height; 6’3”
Position; 7s-Prop/Centre
               15s-Number 8/Flanker
Uganda Rugby Cranes; 7s Tournaments; 1
                                         15s CAPS;  17
Clubs; Black Pirates (6 years)
Other sports played; Basketball, Soccer, Floor Hockey


Marvin Odongo started to make his name known during his rugby days at Kings College Budo and went on to debut for the National team at 18 years old. He might have been quite young at the time but for a 6’3” guy, he fit right in. Very few players have the build that Marvin has. Though not the norm for his position considering number 8’s in most cases are big, whatever he lacks in size he makes up for in passion for the sport of Rugby.
Marvin has a great understanding of the sport of Rugby. Not just how to execute on the field but also how to read the game, anticipate the opposition's plays among other things. Its one thing to be talented and a whole other to be skillful. Marvin no doubt is a very talented rugby player, maybe one of the best of our time but he is even a more skillful player because of all the hours he puts into perfecting his craft.  
Well this week we took a moment to talk to Marvin Odongo and get some input into the person he is off the rugby field and how that does or does not affect the rugby player we see on the field every weekend during the season. 

Meet Marvin Odongo aka Mavado.

What got you started? I am such an adrenaline junkie. The rush I get when I am playing is what got me playing. I guess also the fact that Budo had a rugby team helped a little bit. During my First week at Kings College Budo, the school rugby team was playing St Lawrence Paris Palais and unfortunately on that day, Budo lost miserably. But despite that terrible loss, something about the game and how it was organized had caught my eye. I just had to  play rugby after that. It is safe to say that on that fateful evening, rugby stole my heart. I had finally found a sport that was for me.

What is your biggest accomplishment in Rugby? Winning Elgon Cup on my National Team debut.  (2012).

What things do you currently do in your training that are your keys to your success? I try to do everything right. I strongly believe that perfect practice makes perfect. Not just practice!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself retired. Hopefully with a family. Maybe giving back to rugby in some way. Maybe in the management of my club. I have so much love for the Pirates and I just do not see myself anywhere else.

How do you set your goals? I want to be the best that I can be. So I try to exploit my full potential in whatever I am tasked to do. It’s all or nothing.

What is your biggest challenge and how do you manage it? Time! It’s tough to make time for school, work and rugby! However I am slowly learning the art of efficiency and prioritization.

What is your diet like? I will not even try to lie that I follow a fixed diet, although on days when I have game, my Carbohydrate intake is higher than usual. However, one thing that is part of many rugby players diets and not part of mine is alcohol.  .

Do you have any recommended resources to share with your teammates? To my team I definitely recommend a book by Malcolm Gladwell titled, “The Outliers: The Story of Success."

(I personally took a second to read this book and I gotta say it unveils to you that it is OK to be different, to be unique and to stand out among the crowds. Every person has something that makes them stand out, instead of trying to fit in, we should have the audacity to embrace difference. For anyone who would like to ready this book, here is a link to purchase it; http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3228917-outliers)

What things do you believe differentiate you from your contemporaries? I am extremely committed and passionate about everything I do.

What would you have done had you not become a rugby star? For starters, I don’t think of myself as a “rugby star”. If I hadn’t played rugby, I’d probably be playing another sport, maybe soccer or basketball.

What do you do outside of rugby? I enjoy reading novels and hanging out.  And as much as I hate to admit it, I like playing video games especially FIFA and Call of Duty.

What was the best advice you have ever been given? Not to give up on what you love. Your passion.

Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by? Luck happens when preparation meets opportunity.

Where do you draw your inspiration from? My FAMILY!

To the left we have Marvin with his beautiful mum, Mrs. Stella Ayo-Odongo and to the right we have Marvin and his three sisters Laetitia, Melissa and Elsie (Front to back).

Which rugby players do you look up to?

International Players;
Michael Hooper. (Captain for the New South Wales (NSW) Waratahs in Super rugby and Vice-Captain of the Australian National team – the Wallabies). 
His work rate, passion and commitment make him an extremely exceptional player and leader.. He also managed to captain both the NSW Waratahs and the Wallabies at the tender age of 23.

Michael Hooper

 Sergio Parisse. (former Captain of Stade Francais and Captain of the Italian National team). 
He  is an excellent leader who possess an extremely diverse skill set. Sergio is a number 8 of great handling ability. His positional sense in the line-out and flair for getting across the gain-line, a trait he and I seem to share, has marked him out as my inspiration.

Sergio Parisse

Local Players
Brian Odongo ( Former Captain KOBS Rugby Club and Captain Ugandan National Rugby Team)
Despite playing  for rival teams, He and I are great friends. He has an excellent personality on and off the pitch, which I think is a great thing. Leadership is one of his greatest attributes and that makes him a role model to not only me but also to many other Ugandan rugby players of this generation.

Brian Odongo

Anything else you’d like to share? I would like encourage every current and aspiring rugby player in Uganda to ensure that they complete their education, for a proper education is the single most important gift one can have.

It is very rare to find a person let alone an athlete that has such an infectious personality that it rubs off on everyone in his vicinity. But a lot of Marvin's teammates and friends have found that in him. He lives life to the fullest. Everything he does, he does with all his heart and 100% dedication. That is what makes Marvin an impeccable leader. He leads from the front and by example, all same things he admires about Rugby Cranes National 15's team's captain Brian Odongo. Little does he know he emulates the same exact qualities. His actions are much louder than his words and you can see his energy rub off on all his teammates at Pirates and on the national team. If there is one Ugandan Rugby player with one heck of an admirable work ethic, Marvin Odongo is your guy. He does not leave anything to chance. And his belief in himself and his team keeps his fellow players going even in the hardest times. 

Uganda vs. Kenya

To this day, it beats us here at RELL Rugby 256 why Marvin chose to play the one position of the field that did not fit his build at all. Number 8 is usually played by a very bulky guy. If you look back at the great Number 8's like Wayne Shelford of New Zealand and Sergio Parisse of Italy, they are both above 110KG (220lbs) of just pure muscle. However for Marvin, he is not necessarily heavily built. But if you know Marvin, you know how zealous he is about proving people wrong. And against all odds he has managed to leave himself a legacy in Uganda as one of the best Number 8's the country has had the pleasure of watching represent them on the national stage. 
Well lets see what other players had to say about Marvin's contribution to the sport of Rugby. 

Joseph Aredo (Red) and Marvin Odongo (Mavado)

"I think he is a revolutionized #8 with skill sets, vision and attack instincts to sniff and create that gap if he ain't taking it himself. Always leads from the front. Few people have stood up against him and come out on top."

Joseph Aredo

(Utility Back KOBS Rugby Club)

Mavado vs. Red. Battle of Titans! You gotta wonder who came out on top!

"He is an inspiration to many players... His commitment, hard-work & determination encourages some of us to work harder and it's a great experience playing with him."

John William Wandicho

(Lock Entebbe Mongers Rugby Club)

"Well Marvin from school you could tell he was bound for greatness. His character says it all. He had a shoulder surgery and he went off the national team but the way he recovered and got back with a bang (man of the  match Uganda vs Namibia) shows u his talent and hard work. He is arguably the  best No. 8 in Uganda later on maybe even  East Africa... He is one the key players that will lead Uganda to their second CAR tournament win and later on the World Cup."

Oscar Kalyango

(Capt. KOBS Rugby Club)

Oscar Kalyango, Marvin Odongo, Joseph Aredo and Brian Odongo

Phillip Wokorach, Oscar Kalyango and Marvin Odongo

"Its not how big you are but its how big you play. Marvin's position needs someone who is big but Marvin has been outstanding in that position against all odds. This brings out the big heart he has and how big he plays... so its not about size, its really about the heart."

Phillip Wokorach aka Wokos

(Kabras Sugar Rugby Club)

"He has come through all stages of rugby... Right from school to club to national he has been instrumental to the success of all his teams. He has great skills and he can do what Philip Wokorach does, he is a great leader and player! He is talented! Not a very big guy but he uses his brains more! He is one player who can change the game positively! He is an asset to Uganda rugby and an inspiration to the young lads."

Robert Sseguya aka Soggie

(National Rugby Cranes 15s team coach)

"Marvin... Best captain I've worked under... Leads by example and encourages the boys to put in a solid shift. Very approachable and down to earth guy... But you never want to get to his bad side though!"

Ivan Magomu

(Fly half Black Pirates Rugby Club)

Jude Kirya, Isaac Massa, Ochan Brian, Marvin Odongo, Jaden Isaac, Muwonge Musa
"ONCE A PIRATE, ALWAYS A PIRATE!"

"2010 school rugby title. He brought it back to Kings College Budo after a 6 year wait. He lost his dad the day of the final, and he showed up and played. I am still dumbfounded to this day... His take on the game is international. He has very good game reading abilities and law interpretation. Plus who comes back from a nasty shoulder injury and puts his body on the line for the country. He might become to Rugby what Onyango is to soccer."

Adnan Mutebi

(Prop, KOBS Rugby Club and teammate at Kings College Budo)

       

"He has been exemplary both on and off pitch to the young generation of rugby players. He is going to help Uganda qualify for its first Rugby World Cup."

Asaba Brian 

(Asst. Capt. KOBS Rugby Club)

Well now we know where all the height comes from!

For all the young rugby players out there, if there is one very important thing to learn from Marvin, it is to never lose belief in yourself. No matter how hard the going gets, do not lose faith. Belief in yourself might be the one thing that stands between you being just good and you being great. 

Week 10

Rhinos 29 - Warriors 15

Heathens 65 - Rams 3

Mongers 15 - Buffaloes 8

Pirates 63 - Impis 3

KOBS 28 - Gulu 0 (Walkover)

Ivan Magomu on the far left, Dennis Etuket with the ball & Conrad Wanyama on the right for Pirates.

Rhinos vs. Warriors; This game was meant to be a real battle and it did not disappoint at all. Warriors fought a hard fight and despite their loss, Rhinos must have been taken by surprise how close the Warriors came to upsetting them. Warriors missed 3 scoring opportunities in the first half which might have worked greatly in their favor. However with Scot Oluoch's strength and Semwami's speed, Rhinos monopolized on what they discovered to be their advantage over the opponents.

Heathens vs. Rams; Lawrence Ssebuliba's performance stood out as Heathens made a meal Rams. Their unbeaten streak continues. Who will manage to neutralize the team that has thus far been unstoppable?

Mongers vs Buffaloes; In Entebbe, Mongers used their forwards to torment the Buffaloes in the scrum and the line outs. This game was highly anticipated as Buffaloes was looking to avenge their first loss to the Mongers side. But the Mongers showed they do not take well to threats and played their hearts out to upset the Buffaloes once again.

KOBS vs. Gulu; Not much could be discussed about KOBS as their game was a walkover. Whether that was a blessing or curse we will have to wait and see what happens when they face Mongers this weekend.

Pirates vs. Impis; Ivan Magomu was a man on a mission this week as the fly-half's distribution was excellent against Impis. Also Harunah Mohammed coming on to the field as a substitute gave the Pirates' flair more color. Timothy Kisiga was once again up there as well, as he caught Impis flat footed at times. Impis still has some work to do in the back line defense  as it was their undoing in their game against the Pirates.

Phillip Wokorach through the eyes of his coaches.

Every man is definitely not an island. Last week we profiled Phillip Wokorach and he got to share with us his life and his career. Well this week we decided to find out from Phillip’s coaches what their different opinions were about the Phillip Wokorach we have to know and love.

Phillip Wokorach at Kyadondo Rugby Club during his tag rugby days.

Ochol Peter aka Sky 

Sky would be considered the first coach Phillip Wokorach ever had. Sky has been working with the TAG rugby program since it was established in 2002. When people talk about a structured flight path in rugby, they mean you went through tag rugby, transitioned to contact rugby and then prepared to play competitively. In our interview with him, he talked about how Phillip never missed practice and was always willing to go the extra mile even at a very young age.

 Masendi Robert (Okudi), Innocent Gwokto, Wokorach Phillip , Aaron Oforrothy

What things make Phillip stand out as a Rugby player? Respect. He believes in himself  and always listens to advise. He is a God fearing person.

Engsol Stallions

What do you think is Phillip's past, present and future impact on rugby? Wokos has always loved the game ever since he was young. He played the game even under rain which was not allowed. He is the type of kid who never missed training. He kept going even after breaking both legs. It is quite hard for some people to come back after such injuries. So this gives hope, lessons and challenges to those who always give up after injuries.

Sky and Phillip at the St. Martin Sports Office     

What advise would you give Phillip moving forward? I would advise him to keep up with the great work and always continue praying to God because he is the one who brought him through all the challenges he has faced.

Christine Kizito

From Phillip's early rugby days there is another very influential coach in his life. Christine Kizito coached Phillip all the way from tag rugby to Tigers and later to Stallions before Robert Sseguya took over. She has had an outstanding contribution to the development of young talent in the sport of rugby that it is no surprise that she was involved in the development of an exceptional player like Phillip.

Phillip Wokorach & Christine Kizito

Robert Sseguya aka Soggie. 

Robert Sseguya is the current coach of the Uganda Rugby cranes National 15s team, the same team he once played for, as well as Heathens Rugby Club where Phillip Wokorach played as well. He also coached Phillip when he played for the Stallions as well as in high school at Hana International School. He has been not only been a coach for Phillip, but a mentor as well as role model. Phillip has watched Robert since his days playing for Heathens. He never could have guessed that one day he would get to play for his role model on the Uganda Rugby Cranes National 15s Team. Robert’s inspiring career as a rugby player might be the reason that we all get to see Phillip playing today. Phillip watched rugby at a time when it was dominated with white players but he never truly believed he could play the sport till Robert came on the scene. Phillip found someone he could relate with and that was all he needed to start working to become the best version of a rugby player he could be. So we got to interview Robert Sseguya this week and this what he had to say about Phillip.

Robert Sseguya, Phillip Wokorach & Kevin Keremundu

What things make Phillip stand out as a rugby player? I would definitely say his work ethic. He works so hard and it's because of this that he gets his speed and strength! Besides that, his style of play would be another big one. He is known to be an exceptional side stepper! Also he has an eye for space in the opposite team’s line and this might be the main reason as to why he doesn't take a lot of contact when playing.

Phillip Wokroach at a Hana vs. Namilyango College game

What do you think is Phillip’s past, present and future impact on rugby? Wokos having come from a humble background is a sign that anyone can raise from any background and do what they love.This has greatly impacted youngsters with great skills but from humble backgrounds like him. They are joining rugby now. Also I think Phillip playing the way he does is a sign that Uganda has talented players and we have a great skill in Uganda. This has greatly enhanced Uganda on the international platform as soon Uganda will be recognized as a great rugby nation.

Phillip Wokorach, Robert Sseguya & Joseph Aredo

What advice would you give Phillip going forward? I would tell him not to be carried away and not to think that he is the best but to keep working hard to be the best!

Tolbert Onyango

Tolbert is the current coach of the Uganda Rugby Cranes National 7s Team. He just like Robert, has been witness to the great uprising of Phillip Wokorach so we thought it would be interesting to see what he thought of the player Phillip had become.

Tolbert instructing a practice session for tag rugby

What things make Phillip stand out as a rugby player? He is humble, very keen to learn, always does extra training on his own, has great people skills and in general he is an outstanding young man.

What do you think Phillip's past, present and future impact on rugby is? Humble beginnings, started playing the game at such an early age. So he had the privilege of a structured flight path as opposed to many other players.He has been influential in getting the team especially sevens to Africa cup and some recognition in The World Series. This has inspired, especially the kids, to believe that there is a reward for hard work in rugby. Now that he's getting some loot as well it's possible to earn a living from the sport. The real success will be when he helps us to qualify for the World Series and the World Cup later on in the year. And hopefully unearth more players like himself. We hope to see more kids picking up the rugby ball as well as more competition at school and university level. Because that has been lacking.

What advice would you give Phillip going forward? To always be level headed. Do not let success get to your head. Invest money that you get from the sport wisely and keep on working hard on and off pitch.

Last but not least, we at RELL Rugby 256 decided to give Phillip a real throwback to his Hana and Buffaloes' days.

Phillip maybe getting ready to do the HAKA who knows with this guy.

Phillip kicking at Buffaloes vs. Heathens game.

Opening weekend of Second Leg

Rhinos vs. Warriors

Heathens vs. Rams

Pirates vs. Impis

KOBS vs. Gulu

Mongers vs. Buffaloes

Mongers vs. Buffaloes scrum earlier this season

Rhinos vs Warriors: This game looks to be a real showdown as both teams won their games last Saturday and are on their home turf once again. Though Rimula Rhinos got a big pack and their explosiveness might be there, they struggled in the first half of their last game against Impis. We shall only wait to see what their technical department will bring on board this weekend. For Warriors to neutralise them, they will need to deploy a tight defense and be quick at the breakdown. The two teams have back lines that can match each other, thus the better prepared side on the day will come up victorious. Scott Olwoch and Daudi Semwami seem to have had a great game last weekend and might look to make that game better against the warriors while Owen Kinyera and Brian Seruyange might be the reason for Rhinos to bring their all.

Hima Cement Heathens vs Rams: Heathens being at home and having rested on the weekend against Gulu Elephants who did not make the trip, they are likely to put some good points against Rams though that might not come easily due to the determination of the opposition players like Lumu Richard. So far Rams look to be playing more structured rugby and if they stick to it, they are likely to put a good number of points on board. They however will have to watch for Aaron Oforothy and Vincent Mose who after a week off, who knows that they could unleash out on that field.

Black Pirates vs Impis: Impis is a respectable side which can cause problems to Black Pirates come Saturday. The first round results did not reflect the play on the pitch though Pirates won it 28 - 07. However with the return of most of the students after that two month closure of the Makerere University, players are ready to put everything on line for the win. Meanwhile Black Pirates are ready for whatever will come their way as they still enjoy the second position on the table standing. Impis better watch out for Conrad Wanyama who seems to be unstoppable when he has his eye for the try line and Marvin Odongo who might come back with a vengeance considering his absence from the field last weekend. But on the other hand Pirates had better watch out for the man himself, PJ.

Betway Kobs vs Gulu Elephants: Gulu Elephants are not good travellers when it comes to away games but let us wait to see what they will bring to Betway Kobs on Saturday at Legends Rugby Club. Betway Kobs are in 3rd position at the moment and are looking forward to stepping their game up this week. KOBS has had two very interesting weekends with quite big disappointments of sorts. Gulu had better bring it's all because the KOBS are looking to start off the second leg of this season with a victory befitting of their side and hopefully the chance to make up for the bonus point Buffaloes robbed them of last weekend. However Kobs has to keep their eye on Marlon Adebua while Gulu better watch out for Joseph Aredo, Brian Odongo and Kiwalabye Davis who of late seem to be forces to be reckoned with.

Sadolin Mongers vs Toyota Buffaloes: Sadolin Mongers are hosting Toyota Buffaloes in Entebbe having sorted them out in the first round by 35 - 07. At the time most of their senior players were  preparing for the Dubai and Cape Town HSBC Sevens Series. But all of them are back and ready to revenge for the first defeat and assure their fans of good things to come on the pitch. But Buffaloes won't have it easy as John Wandicho, Elijah Segawa,Capt., Adrian Wasswa and Jerome Buyonga will give them a run for their money as they battle to redeem their side from their loss against Warriors last weekend. But who said Mongers are the only ones seeking redemption, after a controversial game against Betway Kobs last weekend, Pius Ogena, Erick Kasita, Kevin Keremundu and Fred Odur too will be looking for a victory.

We at 256 will be watching and wish all of the teams the best. We can never truly predict how things may play out on the field as we await to see what will happen on that day. So just come out and support rugby.

May the best teams win.

Closing Weekend of the Season's First Leg

Closing Weekend of the Season's First Leg

Rhinos 53-5 Impis
Pirates 54-5 Rams
Buffaloes 16-23 Kobs
Warriors 20-16 Mongers
Heathens 28-0 Gulu (Walkover)

Betway KOBS return to winning ways but a bonus try denied. KOBS recovered from their 33-17 loss against Hima Heathens last week with a well earned 16-23 victory against Buffaloes in a game of two very dramatic halves at Kyadondo RFC on Saturday as the first leg of the season climaxed. Lagging in third place and nine points off leaders Heathens, Kobs could not afford a third loss as it would completely take them out of the title race. 11-13 down at halftime, Kobs turned on the heat in the second half as Ramathan Govule produced a moment of brilliance by evading five tackles to add on the tries by Davis Kiwalabye and Joseph Aredo.
“We really played well but I was let down by some positions”, Buffaloes coach Edgar Lemirigah before expressing his frustrations of not having his full squad at disposal at all times due to national sevens training. “I have just got them back but it’s sad that they will be leaving soon, it gets frustrating sometimes,” he added.

Warriors had a fun day out as they left Mongers licking wounds in a 2016 win thanks to tries from Brian Seruyange, Kera Komaketch and Moses Mutumba to move to 17 points. In the absence of Gabriel aredo, Owen Kinyera stepped up with a couple of really good runs. “We know their weaknesses well enough, it was just a matter of utilizing them until they got exhausted just in time to let us implement our game plan,” said Warriors captain Ivan Ntungire. Talking to Kigongo Sebaluma of the mongers he was not happy that the team didn't  follow their traditional game  plan of keeping the ball in forwards and attributed their loss to that.

A victorious warriors team. PC-Gabriel Aredo

Black Pirates are looking to be the surprise of the Premiership this year as the young team looks to be doing really well at the moment. The team seems to be feeding off the self belief and confidence of their captain Marvin Odongo. His leadership from the front is making such a difference because even in his absence his team still showed a certain level of excellence against Rams. Conrad Wanyama had a great game against RAMS earning Man of the Match.

Heathens got a walkover after Gulu Elephants failed to show up due to their routine financial constraints while Pirates and Rhinos beleaguered Rams and Impis respectively.

Rhinos Friday night had a great come back in the second half to annihilate the Impis team to maintain their spot in the fourth position. Scot was man of the match in the game against Impis after scoring 3 tries. Though first half was not so good for Rhinos only putting 19 points on board. End of the result Rhino scored 51 points against Impis who only managed 5 points on the scoreboard. Impis man of the day to me was Edgar aka PJ the prop.

Heathens are now on top with 42 points with Pirates in second on 36. Kobs are third on 32 as Rhinos complete the top four on 26 points.

The Year of #PW15

Name; Phillip Wokorach
Age; 23 years
Home location; Mukono
Date of Birth; 31st December
Place of birth; Naguru Hospital
Primary School; Kiswa Primary School
Secondary School;City High School Kololo (S1–S3)
                               Hana Mixed School (S4–S6)
University; Uganda Christian University, Mukono
                   (Bachelor in Business administration)
Weight; 90KG
Height; 6’3”
Position; 15s; Full Back
                 7s; Fly Half
Uganda Rugby Cranes; 7s Tournaments; 42
                                         15s CAPS; 5
Clubs; Buffaloes/ Stallions/ Heathens/ Kabras
Other Sports played; Soccer / Tennis / Frisbee

" I am living for the Lord and God is everything." - Phillip Wokorach

2016, Hands down was the year of Phillip Wokorach. On the Ugandan Rugby scene, #PW15 was as popular as what the soccer world knows as #CR7. Phillip Wokorach gave the word excellence a new meaning in the year of 2016. He set the bar so high that whoever comes after him has their work cut out for them. He is an exceptional athlete who knows what he wants and knows exactly what to do to achieve it. The level of focus he holds is far beyond his years and is the reason he is a threat to all other sides he faces.I bet the USA 7s team still studies tape on his try in Dubai. Very few people have the guts to disgrace the USA side like that. Watching the tape on that try, you see one heck of a confident athlete. If he has the ability to feel fear, he knows how to hide it really well. He broke onto the international scene after his try against the United states at the Dubai 7s where Uganda had an exceptional performance.But beyond all the videos, dance skills and crazy moves on the field, who is Phillip Wokorach? Phillip Wokorach to many is known on the field for his hideous dab but I got a second to have a heart to heart with Phillip and find out more about him. Who is he off the field, what he likes to do and what keeps him going.

Meet Phillip Wokorach aka Wokos aka Ojus 

What got you started? There was a rugby pitch next door from my house. I grew up in Nakawa Quarters so Kyadondo Rugby Club was a few minutes away. I went by to watch the players almost every day and they looked cool. Also the game they were playing seemed fun. At that time there was a lot of white guys that played the sport and I admired them. I loved to see them play. But for me, I will say watching Robert Sseguya (Rugby Cranes Coach and former Heathens player) that really got me started. Not only did I want to play for Heathens, which I did, but eventually I definitely wanted to be a Rugby Crane. Growing up watching the rivalry between the Heathens and KOBS was a huge factor as well.

Phillip Wokorach during his touch rugby days.

What is your biggest accomplishment in Rugby? Definitely playing for the Heathens. That had been my dream since I was a young boy! Although representing my country on the big stage, especially at the 2014 Commonwealth games Rugby 7s Tournament in Scotland, was huge as well. During that tournament I probably scored what I consider the best try of my career. But actually I think personally, being outstanding is my biggest accomplishment.

What things do you currently do in your training that are your keys to your success? Giving it all my best. I double the work during training. All that is given to us by the coach is not enough to be outstanding. You need some extra workout time. WORD HARD! Personal training. There is no need to train with a bunch of people watching you. There is nothing to prove to them. There is a lot more to prove to yourself.

Always keeping his eye on the prize!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years? It’s a secret! I would like to hold onto it for a little longer.

What is your biggest challenge and how do you manage it? Personally I do not have challenges per say. But Rugby as a sport in Uganda definitely lacks resources just like most sports in Uganda. It’s always a struggle to find funding. But with the little we have got, we still work hard and go out there and represent this country the only way we know how to.

Young kids marvel at Phillip the way he once did at Robert Sseguya (Heathens vs. Buffaloes)

What is your diet like? I do not like fish for one. But in terms of sports I don’t have certain foods I do not eat or anything like that. I mostly just eat in relation to my weight. So during the season I try to eat so as to keep my weight constant. I can’t afford huge changes in weight. However, off season; I try to eat so as to get as much of a weight increase as I can get.

Do you have any recommended resources to share with your teammates? I mean we are so lucky to have YouTube videos. It might sound very mundane but I highly recommend watching a lot of training drills on YouTube. Especially people who are just joining the sport in the big league. Watch videos about everything you wish to learn about rugby. Now that we have this golden opportunity, we should use it to make our game better.

What would you have done had you not become a rugby star? I would have become a self-employed businessman.

What do you do outside of rugby? School. Hanging out with friends. I love making new friends. Watching movies, listening to music, dancing and praying to God.

What is the best advice you have ever been given? Rugby is a tough sport. On that pitch you need to be tough. Not only tough but at the end of the 80 minutes we are brothers. Whether you are opponents or not we have to shake hands after the game. Rugby is the one sport that I would love anyone to play, because of brotherhood that it promotes.

Do you have a saying or motto that you live your life by? Philippians 4:13 “I can do anything through him that strengthens me.” That verse keeps me moving. I am living for the lord and God is everything. That is why I love this scripture.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?My mum. She really wanted me to be an athlete like my late father.
       

Phillip with his beautiful mother. 

My team mates. They drive me to work hard at every practice and in every game.

Phillip with his teammates at Heathens Rugby Club

Phillip Wokorach and Michael Wokorach

On the Heathens team;
Alex Mubiiru (Former Cranes 15s Captain). He is a senior player who instilled in me the mentality of working hard. He constantly reminds me to work hard and keeps me determined.
On the 7s Rugby Cranes team;
Lawrence Ssebuliba. He is strong, fast and passionate about the sport. When we play together we encourage and motivate each other a lot. Especially in Dubai, I loved playing with him.
On the 15s Rugby Cranes team;
Michael Wokorach (Assistant Captain of Rugby cranes). I consult him a lot.
 Brian Odongo (Captain of Rugby cranes). He leads by example and leads from the front. He plays his role perfectly and the rest follow. I often find myself constantly trying to emulate the way he does his thing.
Finally, Marvin Odongo, he does the unexpected of him. He has a big heart and keeps going forward. He drives me a lot and he doesn’t ever give up on his team.




Anything else you’d like to share? I am definitely not related to Michael Wokorach but I couldn't ask for a better big brother so I call him big bro anyway, I guess he is stuck with me.

 After a very inspiring interview with the one and only Phillip Wokorach, I learned one very important thing. Phillip Wokorach’s breakthrough was way overdue. Two career ending injuries later and he has never felt better. 

His focus and determination for the sport is unprecedented.

Phillip will not let anyone stop him from achieving his dreams. If there is a place where exceptional players go, like a Hall of fame (UGANDA RUGBY UNION HELLO?!?!), Uganda just witnessed the breakthrough year of a true Hall of famer.But if you beg to differ, let's see what other Rugby Players have to say about Phillip. 

Its always fun on the field with this guy.

“He is a great player with great talent and personal vision… With his brand of rugby, he will market Ugandan rugby!... Since his secondary school to date he has been improving day to day! Many youngsters want to be like him...”
Sseguya Robert 

(Rugby Cranes Coach, Former Heathens Player & Personal Coach to Wokorach)

Phillip Wokorach and Brian Odongo

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“Transformed Hana into a winning side on all rugby fronts… He is that type of player you feel confident having on team... Has a big game temperament that is always key for any sports man… In my view he shall lead this country to much greater heights than we are already witnessing...”

Brian Odongo 

(Captain Rugby Cranes 15s team)

“I think seeing where he has come from, clubs are now putting emphasis on training children & have club structures through which children are nurtured into the game,develop skills & love for the game...Currently he has attracted a lot of attention to Ugandan rugby which means a wider fan base,exposure of other players too & there could be sponsorship opportunities for our union as well... Many young players look up to him so this is encouraging them to work hard so we might see more players like him in the future...”

John William Wandicho 

(Lock Entebbe Mongers Rugby Club)

Michael Wokorach and Phillip Wokorach

“Humble beginnings... started playing the game at an early age... Such a structured flight path for him as opposed to many players… Has been influential in getting the team especially sevens to Africa Cup and some recognition in the World Series… This has inspired many especially the kids to believe that there's reward for hard work in rugby...”

Michael Wokorach 

(Asst. Capt. Heathens Rugby Club)

“Hardworking, humble, respectful, elusive and motivated player...always out to give his best ....still most promising player..”

Joseph Aredo 

(Utility Back KOBS Rugby Club)

Phillip Wokorach and Aredo Joseph (Two revolutionary players in Ugandan Rugby right now)

“Phillip has changed the game for most of us... Having fractures on both legs and him being capable of coming back is more of a living inspiration… He is a joy and blessing to watch… He has secured a move to play in Kenya which some of us are encouraged by because we know if one of ours has made it thus far why not us...”

Semwami Daudi

 (Asst. Capt. Rhinos Rugby Club)

“Philip came from a humble background but he has always been very hard working yet very talented... Currently as the face of the sport in Uganda he still works really hard so many young stars look up to him and true that he is being a good mentor to them... He may be the 1st Ugandan to go pro...”

Oscar Kalyango 

(Capt. KOBS Rugby Club)

Oscar Kalyango, Brian Odongo, Aredo Joseph, Marvin Odongo, Phillip Wokorach, Stallone Arinaitwe & Collins Kimbowa.

“Phillip is an exceptional player, he is part of the new brand of Ugandan rugby players who have risen through the rugby ranks... He is a great poster boy for the sport, having come from a humble background to play tag, and then represent the national team at both U19 and senior level in both the 7's and the 15's... I believe he has had a great impact on the lives of many aspiring rugby players, and his impact is getting stronger...”

Marvin Odongo

(Capt. Black Pirates Rugby Club)

"Champions are made from something they have deep inside them... a desire, a dream, a vision."

All kids planning to play Rugby in the next few years, what Philip has achieved this year you get to take for granted so you better thank him. It’s very difficult to be the first to achieve something. But when someone else does it, then you start to believe that it is possible. And this is true for so many more players that I will be profiling in the next few months. Yes, it’s true that Ugandan Rugby is an amateur sport right now, but it is definitely producing world class athletes.