Uganda’s national woodball team has set its sights on Thailand as they gear up for the 4th Beach Woodball World Cup and the 1st Thailand Open International Championship, both due to take place at Laem Charoen Beach in Rayong from September 7–13, 2025.
The team was officially flagged off by Dr. Patrick Bernard Ogwel, Secretary General of the National Council of Sports (NCS), who praised the Uganda Woodball Federation for consistently raising the country’s flag on the global stage.
“It’s always an honour to send off our athletes. The woodball team has represented us with pride in the past, and we are confident they will do it again in Thailand. I applaud the Federation for its steady growth and commitment,” Dr. Ogwel remarked.
Uganda Woodball Federation president Paul Mark Kayongo expressed gratitude to the media for shining a spotlight on the sport, noting that the exposure has boosted awareness and support nationwide.
The contingent has been fine-tuning their preparations at Bunjako Beach in Mpigi district, where they held a residential training camp. Team captains Thomas Khedi (men) and Christine Birungi (women) will lead the charge in Thailand, where Uganda will compete in the fairway team event, stroke team event, and stroke singles, though they will skip the doubles competition.
Uganda enters the tournament with a proven pedigree. At the 2023 World Cup in Malaysia, the team scooped four medals, building on the silver they won at the 2019 edition. Although they were forced to miss the 2024 championship due to financial constraints, the players are eager to make a strong comeback this year.
Team Uganda to Thailand
Men: Thomas Khedi, Amanyire Darry Gilles, Akhram Matovu, Guma George
Women: Jackline Naula, Christine Birungi, Rhona Namatovu Marjorine, Anita Nakyazze
Coach: Mr. Atamba Onesimus
