As the Rugby Cranes landed back at Entebbe International Airport after a demanding two-week tour of Southern Africa, emotions ran high relief, frustration, and quiet resolve.
The team had just endured a brutal stretch: a promising 57-26 win over the Limpopo Blue Bulls, a narrow 22-19 loss to Namibia, and a humbling 102-0 defeat to South Africa’s Pumas.
While criticism swirled, one voice cut through with empathy and strength, Scott Olouch, Heathens flanker and national team regular, who stayed behind this time.
He took to social media with a heartfelt message defending his teammates, and it quickly resonated across Uganda’s rugby circles.
“Only and only until you’ve been on national duty can you understand what it takes to win away from home,” Olouch wrote.
“These tough losses build players in ways no gym or drill can.”
His message came just hours after the second group of players returned at 3 a.m. Sunday, the first having arrived Saturday evening. Olouch’s post wasn’t just a defense, it was a reminder of the sacrifice behind the badge.
“To the boys we who know, know. We got your backs,” he added, bridging the gap between a hurting squad and a critical public.
The tour, meant to prepare the Cranes for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup kicking off next week, raised tough questions. Captain Byron Oketayot suffered a concussion and with six players yet to be cut from the current 34-man squad, uncertainty looms.
But amid all the noise, Olouch’s words offered what the team might need most right now belief.
With the first Africa Cup opponents already in the country, healing must be quick, both physically and emotionally.
