'Peace on a Rugby League mission': Ugandan trailblazer joins York

Peace Lekuru is hoping to be a trailblazer for Uganda women’s rugby league. The 25-year-old centre or backrower has signed for York Valkyrie, a club who have been consistent supporters of the development of the sport in the African nation.

Lekuru has been a long-time captain of the Uganda women’s sevens rugby union side and now aims to not only become a force at York but lead the way for other women from the continent.

“I play both codes and I can say that I have made my mark in union,” said Lekuru on arriving in the Minster City. “I now embrace rugby league and am here to show that Uganda has great players and people who can add value to this sport.

“I promise to do my best and show the rugby league family that they are indeed special - call it Peace on a rugby League mission!”

York Valkyrie head coach Lindsay Anfield has facilitated the move and can’t wait to see how Lekuru fits into her squad.

“Amazingly, I met Peace when she was a Tag Rugby Trust graduate and then became a TRT leader coaching other kids the sport, whilst also perusing her own career in rugby union and league,” she said.

“She led Entebbe Baleen to victory in the URL finals we saw in 2023, and was a stand out player. Now we can’t wait to see this partnership taken to the next level by seeing her pull a Valk shirt on this season.”

Anfield has high hopes for the first Ugandan player to take such a bold step.

“We are so thrilled to have her join us for the remainder of this season and excited to see her on the field," she said.

"My hope is Peace can be the first of many, that she can compete well at this level, that other clubs may see the potential in these amazing girls and more doors open for them.”

Fortunate Irankunda, director of rugby at Uganda Rugby League, fully appreciates how important this move is, not just for Lekuru but the game as a whole in the country.

“It’s an overwhelming opportunity for all other players in Uganda,” she said.

“Sending Peace Lekuru from Uganda to join York Valkyrie has been nothing short of life-changing - not just for her, but for all the young girls back home who now dare to dream bigger. For every player watching, Peace’s journey is a light - showing that with hard work, resilience, and the right support, anything is possible.

“Now, she embraces a new challenge, transitioning into one of the most competitive rugby league environments globally. Peace's journey is a testament to what is possible when talent meets opportunity.”

Lekuru came through the Whales academy established by Irankunda going on to success with Baleen who retained their women’s title last October.

“Peace comes from a humble background and her journey is an open door for other rugby league players,” noted Irankunda.

“Thank you coach Lindsay and the Valks club for believing with us and giving a chance to show that rugby league and Uganda in general has talent!”