By James Robert Kayindi
Uganda Rugby Cranes coach Peter Magona has stepped down as coach of the national rugby team. According to reports, the former rugby cranes captain who was appointed coach in April last year revealed to a source that he had no intentions of renewing his two year contract.
Magona told the Uganda Rugby Union about his decision to step down, thanking the Union’s Technical and Executive Committees for their massive support and faith they put in him to coach the Rugby Cranes even when the results had been below their expectations.
The 35-year-old took charge of the team from Yayiro Kasasa last year, and in his era at the helm, Cranes unfortunately suffered demotion from tier 1A to 1C, also succumbing to the biggest ever defeat margin(34-0) in the Elgon Cup since 2004, despite winning the first leg at Kyadondo 21-14.
Magona who played for club sides Nile, Rhino, Impis and Heathens before leading Heathens to a legendary all-domestic-trophies triumph in 2009, reportedly enticed and urged the Union to appoint him as the professional head coach or director of rugby along with embarking on an elite programme.
He expressed his heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the support fans have unconditionally given to the national team, also commending his assistants, Fred Mudoola, Herbert Wafula, the back room staff and players.