Volleyball is more than a sport to me—it’s my heartbeat, my refuge, and my story. Each time I step onto the court, the noise of the world fades away. The sound of the ball striking the floor becomes a melody, the voices of my teammates blend into rhythm, and my heartbeat keeps time with the energy of the game. Volleyball isn’t just something I play; it’s something I live, breathe, and feel deep within my soul.

When I joined Kabale University, I knew almost nothing about volleyball. I was simply a girl drawn by curiosity and excitement. My first days on the court were filled with uncertainty—missed serves, awkward passes, and plenty of mistakes. Yet, step by step, I learned. Through determination, patience, and the encouragement of my teammates, I transformed from a beginner into aint just teach me how to play; it’s taught me how to believe in myself.

But my journey was far from easy. I once spent almost a full year without playing in a single game situation because of my poor reception. It was painful watching others take the court while I sat on the sidelines, longing for my chance. Still, I refused to give up. Deep down, I knew I wanted to be a great receiver-attacker—that position where timing, power, and trust come together in one breathtaking move. So I kept practicing, day after day, even when progress felt slow and invisible.

Over time, things began to change. My reception improved, my confidence grew, and my presence on the court started to mean something. Today, people even believe I can make a good setter—a role I never imagined for myself when I started. Those words remind me that perseverance always pays off, and that no struggle is permanent. Every mistake, every missed pass, every moment of doubt was shaping me into the player I was meant to become.

Kabale University on the lauch of the Hearing Heart League

There’s a certain magic about this game that words cannot fully capture. It exists in the grace of a perfect serve cutting through the air, in the unity of six players moving in harmony, and in the power of a spike that silences the crowd. Volleyball demands strength, focus, and discipline, but above all, it demands heart. It rewards only those who give their whole selves to it—body, mind, and spirit.

As time went on, I was entrusted with a new challenge—becoming team captain. Leading a volleyball team is both an honor and a test of character. It’s not easy to manage a group of players with different temperaments, talents, and motivations. There are days when spirits run low, when mistakes cause tension, and when keeping everyone united feels impossible. But leadership has taught me that true strength lies in empathy, communication, and patience. A good captain doesn’t simply direct; she inspires, uplifts, and leads by example.

At Kabale University, I have worked tirelessly to build a sense of trust and togetherness within the team. I have learned to turn frustration into focus and disagreements into growth. Every match we play, every training session we endure, strengthens our bond and reminds us that teamwork is the heartbeat of victory. Watching my teammates evolve—their passion, their commitment, their progress—fills me with pride and gratitude. We are no longer just players; we are a family bound by love for the game.

However, our journey has been with challenges. Volleyball at Kabale University has often struggled for recognition, especially when compared to football, which traditionally receives first priority in tournaments and support. There were times when our team had to fight to be seen, to be heard, and to be given a fair chance. But things have begun to change, thanks to the commitment and vision of our sports chairman, Justice, together with us captains and coach. Their tireless efforts—from self-funding transportation and water to showcasing strong performances—have convinced the university to believe in us. Their dedication has not only revived the spirit of volleyball but has also inspired many of us to work even harder to keep that light shining.

Volleyball has given me lessons that extend far beyond the court. It has shaped my discipline, strengthened my resilience, and deepened my understanding of what it means to lead. It has taught me that success is not only measured by trophies or titles but by perseverance, unity, and self-belief.

To me, volleyball is not merely a game—it is a lifelong love story. It is about falling and rising, about fighting with grace and dreaming with courage. From a timid girl who once knew nothing about the sport, to a player who once sat out for a year, to a proud captain at Kabale University—volleyball has molded me into a stronger, wiser, and more confident version of myself. No matter where life takes me, my heart will always belong to the court—the place where I found my strength, my family, and my forever home.


5 responses to “Volleyball: The Game That Owns My Heart. Namatovu Shamia”

  1. Ayesiga Jojo Avatar
    Ayesiga Jojo

    This is so cute.. volleyball is a nice game
    I also like it zo my skills are 🔅🔅..

  2. Ayesiga Jojo Avatar
    Ayesiga Jojo

    This is so cute.. volleyball is a nice game
    I also like it zo my skills are 🔅🔅..
    Low

    1. AINOMUGISHA PRISCAH Avatar
      AINOMUGISHA PRISCAH

      Wawoooo,,,, in your regime you’ve made some of the ladies to enjoy the game . This article is so interesting my gal keep up the spirit, even if you get done with studies, please don’t sit

  3. Hillary aka chairmo Avatar
    Hillary aka chairmo

    Super skills
    The game that owns the world 🌍

  4. Ashraf Kayuwa Avatar
    Ashraf Kayuwa

    Keep training hard….u must make it

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *