Heathens Rugby's Historic 2023-2024 Victory: National Sevens Triumph

The Platinum Credit Heathens have won the elusive National Sevens title in the 2023-2024 Uganda rugby season. The victory, which sets an end to a drought of 11 years, is a statement to which the team has put lots of persistence and hard work. It was defeated in the final of Henry Rujumba 7s tournament, but its performance throughout the season enhanced its victory.

Heathens’ Path to Victory

The Heathens’ journey to this victory wasn’t without challenges. After a rocky start to the season, particularly faltering in the Entebbe circuit, the team regrouped. They bounced back by winning crucial circuits, including the Gulu 7s and Kyabazinga 7s, amassing valuable points. This allowed them to maintain a competitive edge throughout the season, eventually securing the highest points tally with 127 points – two points ahead of the Stanbic Black Pirates, their fiercest competitors.

Tense Final Showdown at the Rujumba 7s

Although the Heathens reached the final of the Henry Rujumba 7s, they faced stiff competition from hosts Stanbic Black Pirates. The Pirates took an early lead with a try from Timothy Kisiga, and the first half ended with a narrow 7-5 lead for the Pirates. The second half saw Paul Bagota scoring for Pirates, but Heathens quickly leveled the score. It was only in extra time that the Pirates clinched the game, with Conrad Wanyama’s try sealing their 17-12 victory.

Despite the final loss, the Heathens’ overall points from previous circuits were enough to clinch the series title.

Historic Wins: Uganda Cup, Championship, and National Sevens Title

This season will go down memory lanes as one of Heathens’ most successful campaigns. Other than the National Sevens title, they won the Uganda Cup and the Nile Special Rugby Championship early this season. This treble of victories marks a great milestone for the Kyadondo-based club, bringing an end to an 11-year wait for major titles.

The Heathens have asserted themselves as the dominant force in Ugandan rugby, winning various formats of the game.

Avengers Rugby Club Dominates in Women’s Category

In the women’s category, Avengers Rugby Club emerged victorious, dethroning the Black Pearls, who had dominated for the last three seasons. Despite a shock defeat on Day One of the Rujumba 7s, Avengers bounced back to secure their overall title with a 22-15 win over Kitgum Queens. The Black Pearls, although winning the home circuit by defeating She Wolves 36-19, were unable to defend their title.

This shift in power signals a new era for women’s rugby in Uganda, with Avengers poised to continue their dominance in the coming seasons.

A Season to Remember

The 2023-2024 Uganda Rugby season will be remembered as the year Heathens looked to reclaim their throne. The teamwork, leadership, and resilience that marked their ability always to get up after a setback through the series point at potential winners. With the National Sevens title, Uganda Cup, and Rugby Championship under their belt, Heathens have sealed their place among the greats of Ugandan rugby.

The one thing that is for certain, as they begin to prepare themselves against more trying times ahead, is that the Heathens have flown back into the top and here to stay.