By Daniel Nyeko
The ascent of Ugandan netball on the professional stage reached a new crescendo on March 29, when She Cranes stalwart Faridah Kadondi was officially named International MVP of the Deloitte Netball Super League in Singapore.
The prestigious accolade was confirmed at the conclusion of the 2026 season, where Kadondi’s defensive masterclasses became the tactical cornerstone for her side, Llabten.
For the 27-year-old, the award represents more than individual brilliance; it validates her status as one of the best defenders in the game.
A Defensive Masterclass in the Lion City
Arriving in Singapore in mid-February as part of the league’s high-calibre international recruitment drive, Kadondi quickly became a transformative figure. Primarily deployed as Goal Keeper (GK) and Goal Defence (GD), her stint was marked by directness and an uncanny ability to disrupt the rhythm of elite shooters.
Kadondi’s physical presence, coupled with her sharp reading of the game, propelled Llabten into one of the most formidable defensive units of the campaign. Her performances in the final rounds were particularly noteworthy, with high interception rates and tactical awareness enabling seamless transitions from defense to attack.
The She Cranes Pedigree
The International MVP award adds another glittering chapter to Kadondi’s expanding résumé. She had already made history with Nottingham Forest Netball in the UK Super League and shone at the 2023 Netball World Cup, where she helped Uganda secure a historic fifth-place finish under Head Coach Fred Mugerwa. Kadondi has become a benchmark for the professionalization of Ugandan netball.
Her success in Singapore, alongside compatriot Haniisha Muhameed who featured for Mannas, reinforces the growing global appetite for the technical composure and intensity that the She Cranes consistently bring to the court.
A Legacy in the Making
Marking the milestone on social media, Kadondi expressed her gratitude: “Awarded International MVP, love this one!” The sentiment was echoed by fans and peers alike, including the Step Out 7 Agency, which was instrumental in her move to Asia.
As the 2026 season draws to a close, Kadondi’s achievement serves as a powerful reminder of the global reach of Ugandan talent. From the courts of Butaleja to the heights of the Singapore Super Netball League, the Queen of the Circle continues to redefine what is possible for African netballers on the world stage.
The writer is a sports enthusiast, analyst, teacher, and finance specialist.
