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How Kukri Athletes Helped Shape a Landmark Women’s Rugby World Cup

Athletes from Kukri partner programmes UBC Women’s Rugby and Loughborough Lighting played a significant role at this year’s World Cup, with several helping their nations reach the final.

Ten current and former players represented Canada and England on the biggest stage, including five from UBC Women’s Rugby representing Canada – Florence Symonds, Rachel Smith, Shoshanah Seumanutafa, Mikiela Nelson and Gillian Boag, while UBC alumni Mackenzie Carson played for England.

Four Loughborough Lightning players also represented England, including Emily Scarratt, Sadia Kabeya, Lilli Ives Campion and Helena Rowland.

All ten players made their mark, with both nations making the final and England edging out Canada to win the World Cup.

For Kukri, the tournament reflected the progress being made across domestic programmes and the women’s game, as athletes developed within supportive environments earned national team selection and contributed throughout the competition.

Pride of Competing at the World Cup

For many athletes, being part of the tournament was a career highlight that they have worked tirelessly for, as UBC’s Rachel Smith points out.

“As an athlete, it felt like a dream come true to be part of a World Cup team. It was emotional because we were so proud of everything we had already achieved, and we got to share that with so much of our family being there.”

Sadia Kabeya, Loughborough Lightning flanker, also described her experience representing her nation at a home World Cup.

“It was amazing. Representing my country was one of the proudest moments of my career,” she explained.

“Reaching the final and feeling that excitement so close to home was incredible.”

Experiencing the Tournament

The players were also struck by the growing crowds, increased coverage and the sense that women’s rugby is reaching a wider audience.

“The crowds were unreal and every week they grew in size. Hearing my family back home about how many people were talking about our team and seeing us on every screen was unreal,” Smith said.

Kabeya added, “Rugby is a sport that is welcoming and has space for all, whether that’s on or off the pitch.

“With the game growing so publicly, hopefully more people can see themselves in the sport.”

Supporting the Domestic Game

Alongside their international achievements, the players’ journeys reflect the strength of the domestic programmes that helped develop them.

Kukri have supported UBC Women’s Rugby for over a decade, as well as their long-standing partnership with Loughborough Lightning, providing tailored match kit and training wear that inspires athletes to perform.

“It’s very well-rounded rugby kit. It’s comfortable, durable and survives some pretty chaotic training sessions and games,” Smith said.

“Kukri emphasizes the ‘feel good, play good’ mantra.”

Looking Ahead

Reflecting on their experience, both Smith and Kabeya hope their journeys inspire the next generation of female athletes.

“My advice to young players would be to work hard, trust your process, and surround yourself with supportive people,” said Kabeya.

“Rugby is a sport for everyone, and there’s space for anyone who wants to get involved.”

Smith added, “What excites me most is seeing young girls grow up and watching women at the top of the sport.

“Dreaming big now feels realistic and tangible.”

With partnerships like UBC and Loughborough Lightning, supported by Kukri, these pathways continue to grow, helping athletes develop, compete, and inspire the future of women’s rugby. Looking to upgrade your rugby sportswear? Explore our bespoke range and design your own here.

Guelph Gryphons Men’s Rugby Make History With First National Championship

The team capped off a fantastic 2025 season by winning their first-ever Canadian University Men’s Rugby Championship.

The Gryphons also claimed their fifth straight OUA Championship, finishing an undefeated season that highlighted their domination across the region.

At the heart of this historic achievement was not only the players’ relentless effort but also the support of Kukri, who have provided high-quality, performance-driven apparel that fuelled their performances and team spirit on and off the field.

Leadership & Culture

Reflecting on making history, Men’s Rugby Head Coach said, “This championship represents the relentless work by players, staff, parents and alumni.

“This wasn’t just representative of the work of those this year, but the near decade of work that has gone in. The championship justifies all of the hard work and sacrifice to achieve this goal.”

Looking back at when he first believed this team could achieve an undefeated season, Cory added, “There was a core belief in the group that started in January.

“We felt we had the team to do it last year but we fell short, and that fuelled the belief the group had for a long time,” he explained.

The Support From Kukri

On the support from Kukri, Cory added, “I really think when you look good, you feel good.

“Having two amazing sets of kit allowed our players to look and feel like a team. Our bench jackets were invaluable too for keeping players on the bench warm, focused and ready to perform when called upon.”

Jamie Williams, Vice President of Kukri North America, said, “We’re incredibly proud to support the Guelph Gryphons team in this historic season and see their hard work and team spirit reflected on and off the field. Their commitment, teamwork and dedication on the field reflect exactly what we aim to support with our performance-driven apparel.

“It’s a real honor to be part of their journey and see them achieve this milestone.”

Inside The Player Experience

For fourth-year fly half Brenden Black, the championship is a moment of personal pride as well as a historic milestone.

“It’s honestly an incredible feeling. Being part of the first Guelph team to ever win a national championship still hasn’t fully sunk in.

“I’ve experienced seasons where we genuinely believed we had the talent and systems to get it done, so to finally breakthrough feels like both a massive relief and unbelievable reward for all the work that’s gone into the program.”

Brenden reflects on the team’s day-to-day commitment that played a big factor in the triumph. “There wasn’t one big moment, it was more of a collection of smaller moments throughout the season.

“No matter the conditions or challenges, everyone that showed up fully bought into the process. That consistent effort and belief made it clear that this group had something special.”

He also emphasized the role of Guelph’s partnership with Kukri. “Their support has been consistent, dependable and a meaningful part of what made this season special for us.

“When you have a reliable kit, it takes one more variable off your plate. It allows us to focus entirely on our preparation and execution.”

Looking ahead, Cory and Brenden are focused on sustaining the program’s success.

“Our goals will remain unchanged, and we will continue to strive to create a competitive environment where players can develop and have fun,” said Cory.

Looking Ahead

Brenden added, “I’m confident the program is in great hands for the coming years. While I won’t be on the field with them, I’m excited to watch this group continue to grow, build on what we accomplished and push the standard even higher.”

With their first national championship secured, a fifth consecutive OUA title, and the relentless support of Kukri, the Gryphons Men’s Rugby team has firmly cemented their place in Canadian university rugby history.

Want to know how we can empower your team? Explore our range of bespoke rugby sportswear.

UBC Women’s Rugby Make History With Back-to-Back National Titles

In the most dramatic finish the U SPORTS Women’s Rugby National Championship has seen in years, UBC Women’s Rugby secured back-to-back national titles.

The Thunderbirds became only the second programme in 15 years to achieve consecutive championships, and the first in UBC’s storied history.

As proud long-standing partners, Kukri Sports were with them every step of the way, providing the high-performance kit that the team wore on their road to victory, inspiring every big tackle, important try and every crucial moment.

The team’s path to the trophy was anything but straightforward. After defeating Laval 32-10 in the quarter-final and edging past Queen’s 20-14 in a bruising semi-final, UBC entered the final against Victoria Vikes prepared for another battle.

In front of a home-crowd of 1,800 fans, the match swung back and forth with high intensity, before Adia Pye’s last-minute try sealed a historic victory.

Performing Under Pressure

“This one feels even more special than the first,” said Head Coach Dean Murten.

“We took the toughest route possible, facing the top three seeds in the country, and had to fight for every point and every inch of territory.

“It wasn’t always pretty, but it was full of heart and that’s what pushed us through.”

For standout player Lana Dueck, the pressure of defending a national title, and doing so on home soil, only made the victory more meaningful.

“Winning back-to-back national titles was a surreal feeling… actually doing what we set our goals to on our home field in front of a packed stadium felt like a dream.”

Even when the Vikes took the lead late in the match, the team refused to panic.

“In those final moments, it was very hard to stay present and not lose hope,” she admitted.

“But once we turned the ball over, it hit me that we could really do this. We just had to stay calm, and keep possession until the opportunity came – and when it did, it was the best moment ever.”

A Championship Built on Trust, Hard Work & Cohesion

Throughout the season, the Thunderbirds built a foundation that allowed them to thrive under the highest pressure.

“We reached a new playing level we’d been working towards all season,” Dueck said.

“We thrived under the pressure and leaned on the hard work we’d put in. I had full trust that #1 through to #25 had my back, and that gave me the confidence to play to the best of my ability.”

That unity was visible long before the Nationals final. In the semi-final against Queen’s, UBC defended on their try line for what felt like an eternity – a moment that Dueck believes set the tone for their championship triumph.

“The heart and resilience we showed in those last few minutes to not give up and keep on putting big hits gave us a new standard and confidence heading into the final.”

Confidence in Every Moment

Team identity and confidence played a major role in their success, with Dueck crediting the kit from Kukri as part of that feeling.

“Wearing Kukri kit and feeling good in what you’re wearing adds to the confidence you play with.

“Having uniformity adds to the cohesion we need on the field and the professional reputation we want to present as a team in all competitions.”

A Legacy Secured

With this historic run, UBC Women’s Rugby have cemented themselves among the elite in Canadian rugby.

A championship built on resilience. A title won under immense pressure. A legacy defined by unity, belief and a team determined to finish what it started.

Commenting on their success, Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri North America, said “We’re incredibly proud of UBC Women’s Rugby during such a historic moment for the programme.

“Their resilience, unity and commitment to excellence reflect everything we value as a partner. To see them achieve back-to-back national titles while wearing Kukri kit is a privilege, and we’re honoured to play a part in their continued success.”

Back-to-back champions – and history made.

INSPIRING TOP TIPS FROM PARA-ATHLETES

In celebration of the determination, resilience and passion that define para-sport, Kukri Sports has brought together the voices of inspiring para-athletes to share their top tips for those starting out in their sporting journey.

 Offering insight, encouragement and advice drawn from their own experiences, these tips highlight the power of perseverance and the importance of community within sport.

Through its ongoing ‘Beyond Limits Together’ campaign, Kukri has shown its continued support and commitment to para-athletes – showcasing inspiring individuals from grassroots to international level who continue to break barriers and motivate the next generation.

Hannah Cockroft CBE – 9x Paralympic Champion

A true icon of para-sport, Kukri ambassador Hannah Cockroft CBE has become one of Britain’s most decorated athletes.

Recently adding two more world titles in the T34 100m and 400m, setting a new championship record and securing her 18th world title at the World Para Athletic Championships, she continues to inspire through her success and passion for helping others discover their potential.

“Try everything, you never know where you’ll find your passion. I tried so many sports before discovering wheelchair racing, and it completely changed my life.

“Don’t expect success straight away. Every performance requires hours and hours of practice. Trust the process and do the work because the end result is worth it.

“Ask questions, lean on others and don’t be afraid to give it everything. Don’t be afraid of putting 100% in, I hear so many athletes say they wish they’d tried harder,” she said.

“If you don’t go for it, you’ll never know and that gold medal could be in that last 1%! So don’t fear hard work, it’s so satisfying to sit back and be able to say that you gave it your absolute best.”

Amy Thompson – F41 Para Shot-Put Athlete

A rising star in British para-athletics, Kukri ambassador Amy Thompson’s journey is one of dedication and perseverance.

Having made her international debut at the World Para Athletics Championships, she continues to push boundaries and inspire others.

“Don’t be afraid to compete alongside able-bodied athletes. It can be easy to compare yourself, but focus on your own progress and achievements within your category as that’s what matters most,” she explained.

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Finding competitions or the right equipment can be tough, so reach out to coaches or fellow athletes for advice. There’s always support if you’re willing to ask.”

Elana Brand – Wheelchair Basketball Athlete, Loughborough University

Elana Brand, who helped Loughborough Lightning Wheelchair Basketball team finish runners-up in the Women’s Premier League last season, shares her perspective on trying new things and finding your passion.

“The best piece of advice I would give to someone is just to give everything a go because eventually you will find something you love and then stick with it,” she said.

Terry Bywater – British Wheelchair Basketball Senior Men’s

Terry Bywater, a senior member of the British Wheelchair Basketball team and 2024 Paralympic Games silver medallist, offers practical tips for athletes looking to improve their game and enjoy sport.

“Always set realistic goals – be patient and focus on quality over quantity. For me, celebrating your successes, no matter how big, is really important.

“It helps you stay motivated and love the sport you are playing.”

Driving Change Through Para-Sport

Through partnerships with organisations including Team England, British Rowing, British Fencing, England Athletics as well as universities worldwide, Kukri continues to support para-athletes on and off the field.

By providing adaptable, inclusive and high-performance apparel, Kukri enables athletes to excel while helping drive progress towards a more equal sporting landscape.

Kukri remains committed to driving change and creating equal opportunities across sport at all levels.

Beyond Limits. Together.

KUKRI SPORTS EXTENDS LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH ROCK RUGBY

A partnership built on pride, performance and provincial passion continues to grow stronger.

Kukri Sports is delighted to announce the renewal of its long-standing partnership with Rock Rugby, reaffirming a relationship that has been at the heart of Newfoundland rugby for more than 15 years.

The new four-year agreement cements Kukri’s role as the official kit supplier for Rock Rugby, delivering bespoke, high-performance apparel designed to meet the demands of the game while reflecting the proud identity of Newfoundland rugby.

The renewal follows a standout year for the Newfoundland Rock rugby programme, which proudly hosted and competed in this year’s Canada Summer Games.

“The Newfoundland Rock Rugby program are happy to extend our relationship with Kukri Sports. The quality of the gear provided is perfect for the demands of rugby and allows our players to loom great when representing our province,” said Morgan Lovell, Technical Director at The Newfoundland Rock Rugby Programme.

Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri Sports North America, said “The partnership is a true reflection of mutual respect, shared values and a relentless commitment to excellence.

“Together, we’ve built more than just team apparel, we’ve built a legacy grounded in teamwork, passion and pride. We look forward to a continuation of this relationship over the next four years.”

This renewal once again highlights Kukri’s continued commitment to supporting the growth of rugby not only in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, but also Canada wide.

Together, these collaborations underline Kukri’s ongoing commitment to empowering rugby communities and providing apparel that performs as strongly as the athletes who wear it.

About Newfoundland Rock Rugby

Rock Rugby operates a comprehensive rugby program across Newfoundland and Labrador, running junior boys’ and girls’ teams at all age groups, along with senior men’s and women’s sides and a dedicated academy programme focused on developing the next generation of rugby talent.

The organisation also proudly represents the province in the Rugby Canada National Junior Championship (RCNJC) and remains dedicated to developing homegrown players and promoting the sport’s growth throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.

Find out more about Rock Rugby

ELLIE STEVENS TRIUMPHS AT 2025 EUROPEAN MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate our North America ambassador, Ellie Stevens, following her phenomenal performances at this year’s European Masters Championships.

The runner secured eight gold medals, including six individual titles and two team victories. Her achievement is a testament to years of dedication, resilience, and passion for running. At Kukri, we are honoured to support Ellie, providing her with bespoke race kit that allows her to compete at her highest level.

Surpassing Expectations

When asked about her success in Portugal, Ellie described the experience as “still a bit surreal.” Initially aiming for six individual golds, she was thrilled to exceed her expectations.

“Each medal tells a story of years of hard work, setbacks, and perseverance. Standing on that podium and representing Great Britain was incredibly emotional,” she said.

Personal Milestones on the Track

Ellie’s journey at Madeira included several personal milestones. She competed in her first ever track 10k, a challenge that tested her focus, consistency, and pacing.

“Once I settled into rhythm, I found myself really enjoying the atmosphere and the energy of the track,” she explained. “It reminded me that growth always happens when you step outside your comfort zone.”

She also set a personal best in the night 10k, crediting a combination of peak physical preparation, mental focus, and the electric atmosphere under the lights for her performance.

Memorable Races & Achievements

Every race brought its own meaningful moments. Ellie fondly recalled her track 10k debut, the 1500m which feels like home, and the 800m, a race that tested her perseverance.

“To come away with six individual golds over such a demanding schedule was incredibly fulfilling. Every race told its own story and added to a week I’ll never forget,” she said.

Balancing Life & Elite Performance

Balancing elite performance with life outside sport is a skill Ellie has honed over the years.

“Running gives me energy and purpose, so I build the rest of my life around that passion. I also make sure to stay grounded—spending time with family and friends, and finding joy in the process, not just the results. That balance is what allows me to perform at my best,” she explained.

Looking Ahead

With the Championships behind her, Ellie is already looking ahead to future competitions.

“This championship has lit an even bigger fire in me. I’m planning to target faster times on the track and road and prepare for the next World Championships. My focus is continual growth, seeing how far I can push my own limits while still loving every step of the journey,” she said.

As a Kukri ambassador, Ellie is proud to wear the brand that reflects her values of determination, teamwork, and excellence.

“Kukri stands for more than performance—it represents community, pride, and passion for sport. I hope to inspire others, especially masters and developing athletes, to chase their goals fearlessly and to show that age is never a barrier to achieving something great.”

Kukri congratulates Ellie on her fantastic achievements and is proud to support her as she continues to inspire athletes across the globe.

KUKRI SPORTS EXTEND LONG-STANDING PARTNERSHIP WITH UBC WOMEN’S RUGBY TEAM

Kukri Sports is proud to announce the extension of its long-standing partnership with University of British Columbia [UBC] Women’s Rugby team, reinforcing its commitment to supporting student-athletes across North America.

As the official on-field kit supplier, Kukri will continue to provide high-quality, performance-driven apparel for the Thunderbirds’ programme until 2028, marking more than a decade of collaboration.

UBC Women’s Rugby team is a highly successful university sports programme based at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.

The team continues to establish itself as a powerhouse premier squad in Western Canada, including winning four consecutive Canada West titles and being crowned 2024 U SPORTS Women’s Rugby national champions for the first time in their history.

Further highlighting the team’s progress, six UBC players competed in this year’s Rugby Women’s World Cup, with five representing Canada and one representing England, showcasing the programme’s ability to develop athletes who excel on the international stage.

The team will be aiming to defend their national title when they host the 2025 national championships from 29 October to 2 November.

“We are proud to announce our new agreement with UBC Women’s Rugby, continuing a relationship that spans over ten years,” said Jamie Williams, Vice President for North America. “We’ve witnessed the hard work and passion of these athletes and coaches, and we look forward to supporting their journey and celebrating many more successes together.”

Dean Murten, UBC Women’s Rugby Head Coach, added “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Kukri, that is built on quality, innovation and support. This sustained commitment enables us to capitalize on the robust foundation we have established and generate even more opportunities for our students and athletes.”

With an exciting season ahead, the renewed agreement ensures UBC student-athletes will continue to benefit from elite kit and apparel as they pursue more success on and off the field. Find out more about UBC Women’s Rugby.

Are you looking for a new teamwear provider? Contact us  

OUR COMMITMENT TO PARA-SPORTS

At Kukri Sports, our mission goes beyond high-quality apparel — we are committed to elevating athletes and giving them the platform to excel.

Whether at grassroots level or competing for international honours, we are proud to support athletes and be a long-standing partner of the para-sport community.

As we launch our new campaign to celebrate these remarkable achievements, we want to shine a light on the journeys and voices that inspire us both on and off the field.

Our commitment is rooted in long-term partnerships with organizations like Team England, British Fencing, British Wheelchair Basketball, and England Athletics, as well as leading educational institutions such as Loughborough University.

Together, we provide technical excellence in apparel while amplifying athletes’ voices, breaking down barriers, and inspiring the next generation

Stories That Inspire:

Amy Thompson – Building confidence and visibility

Our ambassador, Amy Thompson, is a rising star in shot put, recently captaining England at the Home Countries U20 International and earning her first call-up to this year’s World Para Championships on 26 September.

“With the help from Kukri, they have really propelled my career, helping me with not only my kit but my social media presence.

“Without their support, I don’t think I would have as many opportunities as I do currently and that comes down to their support away from sport and really building my confidence.”

Hannah Cockroft CBE – Redefining limits

Nine-time Paralympic champion and ambassador Hannah Cockroft CBE has built her career on pushing boundaries.

For Hannah, wheelchair racing is not just a sport, but a gateway to independence and achievement.

“I’m really proud to be a para-athlete. Wheelchair racing is my freedom. The opportunities that being a wheelchair racer gave me ultimately changed my life.”

Hannah also uses her platform to shift perceptions on para-sport, challenging the idea that wheelchair racing is easy or secondary.

“When you have a disability, you are told more often what you can’t do rather than what you can do.

“I like to use my sport to show people what is possible, and hopefully inspire people to challenge themselves and find out what they can achieve.”

British Fencing – Inclusivity in action

Through partners like British Fencing, Kukri supports athletes who prove that inclusivity is the foundation of sporting progress.

For para fencer and coach Aimee Aronica, fencing restored her connection to the sport she had loved for two decades.

“When I acquired my disability, I felt like I lost my sport. Having wheelchair fencing open to me gave me a way to engage with the sport I have spent 20 years competing in.

“If we as a community can make disability less scary and open up para-sport as a place for everybody, I am hoping our sport can grow and be a place where everybody can achieve their dreams.”

For teammates James Peebles and Wiktoria Mucha, para-fencing is both a test of resilience and a transformative journey.

“Being a para-athlete is about proving that a disability doesn’t define what I can or can’t do,” said James.

“It’s about picking myself up when things don’t go to plan, dusting myself off and trying again, as many times as it takes.”

“Wheelchair fencing has changed my life in more ways that I can ever begin to describe,” said Wiktoria.

“Inclusivity in sport is incredibly important to me as it allows me to feel included and a part of something.

“With the support of those around me, I can do anything and forget about the things I struggle with.”

Looking Ahead

At Kukri, we are committed to supporting para-athletes across a range of sports, ensuring their journeys are seen, heard and celebrated.

In the weeks ahead, we will share content offering a closer look at our athletes’ journeys, highlighting the resilience, determination and talent that makes para-sport so special.

Because for us, it’s about more than sport — it’s about breaking barriers, amplifying voices, and inspiring the next generation.

Beyond Limits. Together.

Guelph Rugby Senior Women Celebrate Historic OWL Cup Streak

For the fifth consecutive season, Guelph Rugby Senior Women’s team has lifted the Ontario Women’s League (OWL) Cup – an achievement that cements their place as one of the most dominant sides in Canadian club rugby.

The team capped off their season with a thrilling 34-30 victory over Brantford Harlequins to earn their fifth consecutive league title and make history as the first side to achieve such a streak in Ontario Women’s rugby.

Kukri Sports is proud to stand alongside the team on this journey, providing high-performance kit designed to empower players and help them perform at their best since 2022.

For the players, the kit is more than just apparel – it’s a symbol of identity, unity and tradition.

“The Kukri kit ties us together as one team. It’s empowering to know we all wear the same colours, representing the same standard and tradition.

“When you feel good in what you are wearing, you play with that extra edge,” said Abby Auger.

Winning five in a row is no small feat. Every season brings new challenges, whether it’s tougher competition, roster changes or the balance of rugby with life outside the game. Yet, the Guelph team continues to find a way to rise above.

“Winning five in a row doesn’t just happen – it’s a real testament to the commitment, resilience and trust we’ve built as a team.

“To be a part of this group, surrounded by incredible teammates, makes this championship really special to me,” added Karenna Ottywill.

For many players, the victory feels like a culmination of years of growth. From starting in the NRU to battling for supremacy in the OWL, Guelph’s journey is one of hard work and collective belief.

“Securing even one title is a monumental effort, so to achieve five in a row speaks volumes about the hard work, dedication and culture of our club.

“This fifth title is a testament to the commitment we’ve maintained year after year,” said Chloe Runge.

Guelph’s culture truly sets them apart, with their veterans leading by example by instilling the ‘Guelph Way’ – accountability, trust and relentless work ethic – while creating a space where rugby is fun and fulfilling.

Commenting on the success of our partner, Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri Sports North America, said “We’re incredibly proud to support Guelph Rugby and celebrate their fifth consecutive victory.

“Their success is not only a reflection of their talent but the culture they’ve built, and we’re honoured to be a part of their journey.”

Five straight championships are a reflection not only of Guelph’s talent but of their spirit. A dynasty built on heart, culture, and the drive to keep raising the bar — and they’re not done yet.

Get in touch with us to see how we can support your team’s journey