Ugandan rugby star Peace Lekuru has signed with English champions York Valkyrie, marking a major milestone in her career and a proud moment for Ugandan women’s rugby.
Nicknamed “the Lioness” for her fearless style, the 25-year-old becomes the latest Ugandan to join the professional ranks abroad.
Her move follows Emily Lekuru (no relation) who recently signed with Japan’s Hokkaido Barbarians. It’s turning into a season to remember for the Lekurus.
Peace brings speed, power and leadership to the Valkyrie squad. A Uganda Sevens captain and graduate of Tag Rugby Trust, she’s already made her name in union. Now, she’s ready to take on the rugby league stage.
“I’ve made my mark in union,” she said after landing in York. “Now I’m embracing league. I’m here to show what Uganda has to offer. Call it Peace on a rugby league mission.”
York head coach Lindsay Anfield, who’s followed Lekuru’s journey since her grassroots days, is thrilled to have her.
“I met Peace when she was a Tag Rugby Trust graduate and later a coach,” said Anfield.
“She stood out when she led Entebbe Baleen to the URL title in 2023. We can’t wait to see her in a Valkyrie shirt.”
Anfield hopes Lekuru’s presence opens doors for more African talent in the sport. “We’re excited to have her for the rest of the season and hopefully, she’s the first of many.”
Back in Uganda, the move has sparked pride and inspiration. Fortunate Irankunda, director of Uganda Rugby League and founder of the Whales Academy where Lekuru trained, sees it as a turning point.
“Peace’s journey is a light,” Irankunda said. “She comes from a humble background, and now stands as proof that when talent meets opportunity, anything is possible.”
About York Valkyrie
York Valkyrie are the women’s rugby league team of York RLFC (known as York City Knights from 2002 to 2022) based in York, England.
The Valkyrie, who were established in 2016 as York City Knights Ladies, compete in the Women’s Super League and play their home games at York Community Stadium which is also home to York RLFC’s men’s team, York Knights, and football club, York City F.C.
They are the current Women’s Super League champions, after they defeated St Helens 18–8 in the final to retain the title.
