A wild observation on NatGeo crocodile nesting behavior has revealed that saltwater and Nile crocodiles lay an average of 23 eggs.
Another study of saltwater crocodiles’ growth rings (like tree rings) shows that by around 23 years, a large male often reaches its prime size and strength, becoming a dominant predator in its territory.
In a way, 23 is the magic number where new crocodile life often begins! And today, a local crocodile, affectionately known as a Gonya in the local dialect, is beginning a new life.
This Saturday, Ugandan rugby will witness its own ‘Gonya’ Michael Wokorach’s final dance, as he plays his last game after an outstanding 23-year career The 35-year-old stalwart publicly announced his retirement on December 15, 2025, via an X post: ‘It’s finally time to close the chapter.’
A towering figure at both club and national levels, Wokorach has defined an era for Heathens, winning 11 league titles, seven Uganda Rugby Cups and six National Sevens Series championships. On the international stage, he earned 54 test caps for Uganda in the fifteens format and skippered the national sevens side during three defining periods (2009-2013, 2015, 2018-2023). He also led Uganda at three Commonwealth Games (New Delhi 2010, Gold Coast 2018, Birmingham 2022) and the Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2018 and 2022, blending tactical brilliance with resilience and leadership.
This testimonial titled ‘Gonya’s Last Run,’ will be played at Kyadondo Rugby Club, a spiritual home of his career where it all started and ends.
The match pits Team Gonya, comprised of his brothers-in-arms teammates, against a national All-Stars squad.
Wokorach will play the first half with his own team before switching to the All Stars in the second half, ensuring fans witness him in action across both sides. Tolbert Onyango and Marvin Odongo will coach the respective teams, promising an entertaining spectacle.
Like a crocodile mastering the death roll, Wokorach evolved over time from a lanky outside back to a fleet-footed midfielder and finally to a formidable backrow presence, adapting, excelling and leaving an indelible mark on Ugandan rugby.
His testimonial is a celebration of discipline, mentorship and passion, a fitting farewell to one of the country’s most respected rugby icons.
Michael Wokorach Rugby Career
Clubs
BuffaloesRFC (2006-2007)
Heathens RFC (2008-2025)
National Teams
Uganda Men’s 7s (2008-2023)
Uganda Rugby Cranes XVs (2009-2019, 2021-2023)
Festival/Franchise Teams
Rwenzori and Victoria (2010-2013 Bamburi Super Series)
Elgon Warriors (2012 England Counties tour of East Africa)
Uganda Rugby Legends (2023-todate)
UG All Stars (2025 Blackrocks College tour of Uganda)
Individual Honours
54 test appearances for the Uganda Rugby Cranes XVs
11-time Rugby Premier League/Premiership/ Championship winner (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014/15, 2016/17, 2018/19, 2019/20, 2022, 2024)
7-time Uganda Cup winner (2009, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2022, 2023/24)
6-time National Sevens Series Champion (2009, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2024)
3-time Makerere 10s winner (2009, 2010, 2012)
3x Rugby Africa Men’s 7s winner (2016, 2017, 2022)
2-time Elgon Cup winner (2012, 2015)
2023 Victoria Cup winner
2022 Rugby World Cup 7s bowl winner
Uganda Rugby Awards men’s MVP (2013, 2015)
USPA Media Rugby Player of the Year (2013 and 2015)