The Uganda Lacrosse Association and the entire lacrosse community are in mourning following the sudden passing of Mubarak Manshur.
His death has come as a shock to many, given his deep involvement in the sport both as a player and a coach.
Manshur, a key member of the Uganda Lacrosse Association’s executive committee, was responsible for the sport’s development alongside four other members.
On the field, he was a dedicated player for the senior men’s national team and his club, FCA Warriors Lacrosse Club, where he was best known for wearing jersey number 3.
Beyond his playing career, Manshur was instrumental in shaping the future of lacrosse in Uganda.
As the founder and coach of Kibuli Hornets Lacrosse Academy, he helped nurture young talent, including Swibu Meliga, who went on to represent Uganda at international tournaments in Ireland (2022) and San Diego, California (2023).
He also worked closely with the Peace Lacrosse World campaign and collaborated with Silverbacks Lacrosse Academy at MUBS Nakawa to provide young players with exceptional playing opportunities.
His passion extended into schools, where he coached both lacrosse and handball at St. Joseph SS Nandere and Ndejje High School. In 2023, Manshur played a significant role in the USSSA Ball Games held in Kabale, where lacrosse made its first appearance at the tournament.
On the national stage, he was called up to the Uganda national team pool in 2022 by Coach Patrick Oriana. As a long pole defender, he played a crucial role in Uganda’s victory over Kenya in Nairobi, helping the team secure a spot in the 2023 World Lacrosse Championship in the United States.
Manshur passed away on Friday at Kibuli Hospital and was laid to rest on Saturday in Kayunga, just before Busaana town.
He leaves behind a legacy of dedication to the sport and his local community in Kibuli, where he worked tirelessly to grow lacrosse and inspire the next generation of players.
