Off the wire
• Sri Lanka's main opposition welcomes resolution at UN  • IOC President to speak at UN General Assembly  • S. Korea takes easy victory over Singapore 87-45  • Interview: World Bank chief lauds China's role in global anti-poverty cause  • Awards ceremony set for Asia Pacific Golf Summit  • New Zealand urged to show humanity to Pacific islands in face of climate change  • China police detain 14 for smuggling edible bird's nests  • Spotlight: Cyber security promises new highlight of China-U.S. cooperation  • S. Korea, Japan to hold foreign ministers' meeting in New York next week  • Cambodia to bar foreign films from Cambodian TV channels in prime time  
You are here: 　 Home

Uganda's rugby team travels to S. Africa for 2016 Olympics qualifier

Xinhua, September 25, 2015 Adjust font size:

Uganda's women rugby 7s team on Thursday traveled to Johannesburg, South Africa to take part in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games qualifier.

Head coach Allan Musoke told Xinhua in an interview that although the event scheduled for Sept. 26-27 will be competitive, they are prepared for it.

According to the qualification rules set by World Rugby, the team that finishes top will automatically qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Uganda are pooled in Group A alongside hosts South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia. Group B has Madagascar, Tunisia, Kenya, Senegal and Botswana

Musoke said they will have to handle every game like a final because there is a lot at stake.

"It is unfortunate we have not had some top friendly games, but the team is well motivated for the battle," said the former national player.

Uganda has never qualified a team for the Olympics, but the women's team made it to the Rugby World Cup 7s in 2009 held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

The teams that have already qualified for the Olympics include hosts Brazil, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Britain, Colombia, United States and France.

Uganda's squad includes Brenda Kayiyi, Charity Atimango, Charlotte Mudoola (captain), Claire Anena, Emmanuella Oroma, Grace Auma and Harriet Kayonjo.

The others are Hildah Nyiraguhirwa, Irene Nzige, Odoyi Mary Kyoita, Prossy Nakakande and Samiya Ayikoru. Endi