Judith Auma will skipper the Lionesses squad to the Challenger Sevens Series slated to start on August 12 in Santiago, Chile.
Auma replaces Japan-based Janet Okello, who captained the squad during the Africa Sevens Championship.
The diminutive half-back, who plays for Impala Saracens, said she was delighted to captain the squad and was confident they can put aside their poor performance at the Africa Sevens Championship in Tunisia in April and be competitive in the 12-team tournament.
“We put our disappointment behind us and trained well for the past two months. We are now looking forward to going toe-to-toe with the best teams,” he added.
Auma said they have done a thorough review of what went wrong during the event.
“We have identified our mistakes from the Africa Sevens ranging from ball retention, attack, defence, and discipline, and the girls are ready for action," said Auma. Head coach Dennis Mwanja was quietly confident the team will put on a good show.
“We are coming from a background of rebuilding the team, and also there has been a lot of transition in the team. We’ve had to pick up the pieces but I’m glad I have seen a lot of positives in the team. This is a team that is determined, focused and working with a purpose,” added Mwanja.
Commenting on the team’s expectations, the former international said “We are looking forward to a very exciting tournament in Chile. The girls know what we can achieve.”
The Lionesses are in Pool 'D' and will begin their campaign with a clash against China on August 12 at 9.01 pm EAT before taking on continental rivals South Africa at 2.37 am EAT on August 13.
They will wind up their pool play with a match against hosts Chile at 5.34 pm EAT on August 13.
From the 12 teams in action, the winner will qualify for the World Sevens Series for the 2022-2023 season.
Squad: Judith Auma (Captain), Laurie Otieno, Stellah Wafulah, Linet Moraa, Grace Okulu, Leah Wambui, Sinaida Nyachio, Jean Bisela, Janet Okello, Naomi Amuguni, Christabel Lindo and Ann Gorreti Ochieng.
Management: Dennis Mwanja (Head Coach), Samuel Kimotho (Assistant Coach), Ben Mahinda (Physio), and Camilyne Oyuayo (team manager)
