As the countdown to the inaugural CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship intensifies, the Uganda national beach soccer team, the Sand Cranes, has settled into full gear at their residential camp in Kasanje, Wakiso District.
With just over a week to the continental showdown set for June 6 to 11 in Mombasa, Kenya, head coach Arch Rica Byaruhanga has expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.
Speaking on Thursday, May 29, Byaruhanga confirmed that all 20 players and members of the technical staff are present and actively participating in the training sessions.
“It’s Day Four of our residential training here in Kasanje and so far, so good,” he said. “The camp is full, the players are fit, and there are no injuries.”
The Sand Cranes began their preparations with a focus on tactical integration, and Byaruhanga revealed that the team has already successfully embedded a number of fresh faces into the squad.
Youngsters like Micheal Kuol, Sison Niwesasira, and Godfrey Edweu; recently scouted from school competitions, have reportedly adapted well to the demands of the senior level.
The most notable development in camp is the implementation of a new tactical philosophy termed “The Ugandan Way,” a playing style centered on high energy, game control, and proactive intensity.
“We want to play the Ugandan way. We want to play with energy, be so proactive, and we want to intimidate, even when we’re on the pitch. Whether we have the ball or not, we want to control the game,” Byaruhanga emphasized.
This approach is being drilled into the players through a rigorous two-a-day training schedule at the Bamboo Gardens Beach Soccer Arena.
Morning and evening sessions are designed to refine technical execution while also unlocking individual strengths.
“We’re ensuring that each of the boys brings out their unique strengths. So you’ll see different faces with different qualities,” the head coach noted, highlighting the team’s emphasis on versatility and adaptability.
The Sand Cranes’ 20-man squad is a blend of experienced campaigners like Brian Nkuubi, Ambrose Kigozi, and goalkeeper Ronald Mutebi, alongside promising talents from beach soccer clubs and educational institutions.
The goal, according to Byaruhanga, is to strike a balance between youthful exuberance and seasoned composure.
Uganda is looking to make a bold statement in Mombasa during this first-ever CECAFA Beach Soccer Championship.
With the full backing of a technical team that includes co-head coach Geofrey Akabwai, assistant coach Baker Lukooya, team doctor Ivan Kulika, and manager Tonny Ssebagala, the Sand Cranes are expected to approach the regional event with renewed ambition.
