NEC FC goalkeeper Hannigton Ssebwalunyo has attributed his April brilliance to a powerful blend of team unity and internal competition, following his recognition as the headline winner at the Fortebet Real Stars Sports Monthly Awards.
The 36-year-old shot-stopper, who enjoyed a remarkable run of form, revealed that the collective spirit within the NEC FC camp—coupled with constant pressure from his fellow goalkeepers—played a pivotal role in elevating his performances.
“I am grateful to God for enabling me to win this,” Ssebwalunyo said after receiving his accolade. “This award is a result of unity in my team plus the push from fellow players, especially the goalkeepers who always challenge me.”
His words reflect a dressing room culture where competition fuels excellence rather than division—an environment that translated into tangible results on the pitch.
Over the course of April, Ssebwalunyo kept five clean sheets and, in a rare feat for a goalkeeper, found the back of the net twice, underlining his all-round impact.
His outstanding displays saw him edge out strong contenders in Ivan Mayanja of Maroons FC and Frank Ssebuufu of SC Villa to secure his maiden Real Stars accolade.
Away from football, the awards also celebrated standout performers in other disciplines.
Edreene Ekau of Rezlife Stars claimed the basketball honour after averaging 20 points per game, while Pirates’ Alex Aturinda took home the rugby award.
Organised by the Real Stars Sports Agency and backed by Fortebet alongside Jude Colour Solutions, the monthly awards continue to spotlight excellence across Uganda’s sporting landscape.
For Ssebwalunyo, however, the recognition is less about individual glory and more a testament to a team ethos—one where unity and healthy rivalry combine to produce moments of brilliance.
