Author: garethloopdesignagency

Four nations, one stage, a commonwealth of ambition. Discover the teams, athletes and stories to watch as Kukri’s partners prepare for Glasgow 2026.

Team England: Chasing Commonwealth success

Team England arrive in Glasgow as one of the leading sporting nations in the Commonwealth after an impressive Birmingham 2022 campaign, finishing second on the medal table with 57 golds.

With world-class athletes across a range of sports, expectations will once again be high as they target more standout performances.

They will do so wearing a kit that reflects performance and place. Unveiled by Kukri, the design draws inspiration from Glasgow’s iconic art and architecture, combining bold visuals with high-performance materials developed alongside athletes.

Team Canada: A nation built for big moments

Canada enjoyed a hugely successful Birmingham Games, finishing third overall with 92 medals, including 26 golds.

Among the standouts was Summer McIntosh, who at just 15 claimed gold in the 400m individual medley, while also breaking a record and adding five more medals.

Known for producing elite talent across sports, Canada will arrive in Glasgow with a combination of experienced performers and emerging athletes eager to make their mark.

Kukri will once again provide official ceremony wear and athlete apparel, continuing a successful partnership from the past two Games.

Team Barbados: Pride, passion and opportunity

For Barbados, the Commonwealth Games represent more than competition – they are a chance to shine on one of sport’s biggest stages.

After securing three medals at Birmingham 2022, including a gold medal from Sada Williams in the women’s 400m, the nation will look to build on that success and inspire the next generation.

Kukri’s long-standing partnership with Barbados continues into Glasgow, with designs that proudly showcase the nation’s identity and colours.

Team Anguilla: Inspiring a nation

Commonwealth Sport Anguilla will head to Glasgow determined to showcase the talent, dedication and passion that exists across the Eastern Caribbean nation.

The Games provides a unique opportunity to compete alongside the world’s best, create lasting memories and inspire future generations.

Kukri will once again support the team with performance apparel designed to reflect the pride and identity of the nation on the international stage.

Looking ahead to the games, which begin on 23 July, Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “We are incredibly proud to support our partners at the Commonwealth Games.

From established medal contenders to athletes chasing their first Commonwealth moment, each team will bring its own story to Glasgow 2026. Kukri is proud to play a part in supporting these journeys, and wish all partner athletes and teams the best of luck in Glasgow.

For Team Canada athlete Nandini Sharma, the road to the Commonwealth Games has been defined by resilience, perseverance and the people who have helped her along the way.

This summer, Sharma, known as one of Canada’s top wheelchair racers, will proudly wear the maple leaf at her second Commonwealth Games – an achievement that seemed unimaginable when she first discovered the sport less than a decade ago.

Her journey began on 15 May 2016 at her very first competition in Ontario. Despite battling rain, snow and hail in true Canadian fashion, Sharma found something that day that would shape her future.

“I fell in love with the sport,” she says. “And now I get to compete at my second Commonwealth Games. That’s crazy.”

Representing Canada on one of sport’s biggest stages is something Sharma doesn’t take for granted. Every training session, every competition and every challenge has led to this opportunity, and she’s determined to make the most of it.

As she prepares to line up against some of the Commonwealth’s best athletes, Sharma hopes all the hard work and sacrifices will come together when it matters most. But regardless of the result, simply earning the chance to compete for Canada again in the Women’s 400m and 1500m T54 events is something she is incredibly proud of.

Behind every athlete is a team of people who help make moments like these possible, and for Sharma, one person stands above all others.

“When I think about everyone who’s had such a massive impact on my career, I think about my friends and family, my coaches and my teammates. But the person who comes to mind most is my coach, Lisa Myers.”

Ahead of her first Commonwealth Games, Sharma’s father passed away suddenly – a devastating loss that left her questioning whether she wanted to compete, or even continue in the sport she loved.

Rather than pushing her towards competition, Myers gave Sharma exactly what she needed: patience, understanding and unwavering support.

“She just encouraged me to come to practice because she knew I loved it. She let me process my grief in the way that I needed to.”

For months, training became about far more than preparing for international competition.

“For about six months after every practice, I cried,” Sharma recalls. “She either cried with me, held me while I cried, or just sat there with me and let me do whatever I needed to do.”

Looking back, Sharma has no doubt about the difference that support made.

“I don’t know if I’d still be in the sport if it wasn’t for her.”

That experience has shaped the athlete she has become and the legacy she hopes to leave beyond competition.

“I hope that one day I can look back and know that I had just as much of an impact on another athlete’s life as she’s had on mine.”

As another Commonwealth Games approaches, Sharma knows success isn’t measured solely by finishing positions. It’s about embracing the opportunity, trusting the work that has gone into reaching this point and representing Canada with pride.

She also has some simple advice for the next generation of athletes.

“Give back as much as you can.”

She still carries with her a mantra from her first coach, Ken Tom, that has guided her throughout her career.

“Plan the work, work the plan.”

It’s a reminder to trust the preparation, believe in the process and have confidence in everything you’ve done before stepping onto the start line.

And as the countdown to the Commonwealth Games continues, there’s one final piece of advice Sharma hasn’t forgotten.

“It’s supposed to be fun,” she says. “So just have some fun.”

When Nandini Sharma steps onto the start line in Team Canada’s colours this summer, she’ll be carrying more than years of training. She’ll be carrying the support of those who helped her through life’s toughest moments, the pride of representing her country once again, and the belief that all the hard work has prepared her to perform on one of the biggest stages in Commonwealth sport.

12/05/202612/05/2026

Injury, pressure and perspective – three partner athletes open up on mental health in sport.

Ellie Stevens – British Masters Runner & Brand Ambassador

For Ellie, running has always been more than competition.

“Running felt like freedom in a way nothing else ever did. It became not just a sport, but a form of expression and, over time, a form of therapy for my mind as much as my body.”

Her perspective shifted after illness interrupted her career.

“Being diagnosed with M.E. stripped me back to the basics of who I was,” she recalled. “It taught me that self-worth cannot be tied purely to performance.”

Now, balance is central to her approach.

“Recovery, sleep, nutrition and mental wellbeing are just as important as the workouts themselves.

“Competing now comes from a place of gratitude rather than pressure, which I believe has actually been the key factor that’s allowed me to perform at a higher level.”

For Ellie, resilience is about awareness.

“Real resilience is quiet. It’s about showing up on the hard days – but also knowing when to rest and when to ask for help.”

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Robbie Wingrove – Oshawa Vikings Men’s Captain

For Robbie, rugby provides structure and stability.

“Rugby has always given me purpose, structure and confidence. No matter what challenges life presents, the game has been an anchor that keeps me grounded.”

Like many athletes, injury tested that foundation.

“The toughest challenge came through injury. What got me through it was the support of teammates who pushed me to stay positive and focused.”

Returning to play became a defining moment.

“Winning bronze in the national championship remains one of the proudest moments of my career.

“It reminded me how powerful team support can be.”

He also believes the culture around rugby is improving.

“Real toughness is about being honest, supporting your teammates and creating an environment where everyone feels valued.”

On mental health in sport, he is clear in his message.

“Every player deserves to feel heard and supported and I recommend anyone to speak up – you always have a voice and asking for help is a sign of strength.”

Cam Wood – Oshawa Vikings Women’s Captain

For Cam, rugby is a mental release.

“Rugby has been the perfect outlet for my mental health. When I step on the field everything else melts away.

 “I’ve found some of my closest friends for life through the club and they have helped me to grow into the mentally strong individual I am today.”

She also recognises the challenge of opening up in sport.

“You have to remind yourself that we are all human.

“My biggest support is my older sister. We both understand the toll it can take on not only your body, but also your mind.”

Cam’s message to others this Mental Health Awareness Week is simple.

“Don’t let the fear of speaking up outweigh your need for support. Sharing what you’re going through can give your mind the peace it needs.”

Mental Health Awareness Week highlights the importance of speaking openly and supporting one another in sport and beyond.

Kukri is proud to support athlete wellbeing on and off the field.

01/04/202626/03/2026

For national governing bodies, choosing the right performance sportswear partner is about much more than producing kit.

Organisations need a supplier capable of delivering reliably for athletes competing on the international stage, while also understanding the identity and values of the team they represent.

At Kukri Sports, supporting national teams & organisations means delivering exactly that – combining global capability with local expertise to help teams perform at their best.

A Global Network Supporting National Sport

Kukri operates across multiple regions, with offices in Vancouver, Hong Kong, Dubai, Brisbane, Hamilton, Belfast and the United Kingdom, alongside a network of regional representatives across key sporting markets.

Sales managers operate in regions including Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Chile, Barcelona and Amsterdam, providing local expertise while connecting organisations to Kukri’s wider international network.

This global footprint enables Kukri to support national governing bodies across different continents and time zones, ensuring consistent service and reliable delivery wherever teams are preparing to compete.

How Kukri Supports National Governing Bodies

National governing bodies operate complex programmes involving elite athletes, pathway systems, staff and volunteers. Kukri’s service model is designed specifically to support these programmes.

How can we support you?

– Reliable global supply chains capable of delivering for major international competitions and multi-sport events

– Dedicated account management, providing consistent support and communication throughout the partnership

– Custom apparel design, reflecting the identity, heritage and values of national teams

– Operational scale, allowing governing bodies to outfit large athlete and staff programmes

– Consistent service across time zones, supporting organisations operating internationally

A standout example is our kit design for Team England at the 2022 Commonwealth Games:

Mark Osikoya, CEO at Commonwealth Games England, said “We know how much it means for athletes to wear their team England kit and, as a valued partner, Kukri share our commitment to inclusion, diversity and sustainability.”

Trusted by National Teams Around the World

Kukri’s approach has seen the brand develop partnerships with national sporting organisations across multiple regions.

In the United Kingdom, Kukri partners with organisations including Team England, British Gymnastics, England Athletics, Northern Ireland Volleyball and Netball Northern Ireland.

Across Canada and the Caribbean, Kukri partners with organisations including Commonwealth Games Canada, Bowls Canada and Barbados Olympic Association.

Elsewhere, Kukri works with partners including the Hong Kong Squash Association in Asia and serves as the official off-bike apparel partner for AusCycling in Australia.

These partnerships reflect Kukri’s growing presence within national sport and its experience supporting teams competing on the global stage.

Global Strength, Local Relevance

While Kukri operates internationally, its partnerships are built on local understanding.

By working closely with organisations within their markets and providing dedicated regional support, Kukri ensures governing bodies benefit from the reliability of a global supplier while maintaining the responsiveness and cultural understanding of a local partner.

This combination of global strength and local relevance allows Kukri to support national teams as they prepare athletes for success on the world stage.

Partner with Kukri

With more than two decades of experience, we’ve built a strong reputation for delivering premium teamwear for some of the world’s best athletes.

Are you looking for a partner with global experience and local expertise? Discover how we can support your programme and athletes today.

06/03/2026

Supporting women in sport isn’t just about kit – it’s about creating opportunities, celebrating athletes and breaking barriers.

On International Women’s Day, it’s about representation, confidence and investing in the next generation.

One story that embodies this spirit is UBC Women’s Rugby. As official kit supplier for over a decade, UBC Women’s Rugby continues to set the standard in Western Canada, winning four consecutive Canada West 7s titles, six consecutive Canada West 15s titles, back-to-back U SPORTS national championships, and with six players competing in last year’s Rugby Women’s World Cup.

We spoke with Olivia Sarabura, a key part of UBC’s recent success, about her journey, the growth of women’s rugby and what it means to be a woman in sport today.

“Being a part of the UBC Women’s Rugby program means everything to me. When I first started playing, I could not have imagined the places this sport would take me.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to compete at such a high level, and I hope my journey shows young girls that you don’t have to choose between education and playing the sport you love.”

Now entering her sixth year with the squad, Olivia said rugby has opened doors to both national and international experiences.

“It’s given me so many opportunities to be the best athlete and person that I can be.

“I’ve been able to represent my country playing rugby sevens and play for the best women’s rugby program in the country, something that wouldn’t have been possible a few decades ago.

When it comes to game day and giving her best, wearing Kukri kit is more than just putting on a uniform.

“Our coaches always say that our kit represents so much more than just us. They represent our team, the people who believe in us and the athletes who came before,” she explained.

“When I put on my Kukri kit, I play better because I know that I’m not just playing for myself – but all the people who made it possible for me to put it on and play the sport I love.”

While celebrating progress, Olivia stressed the importance of ongoing investment.

“Women’s rugby in Canada has so much potential. We have talented athletes, coaches and supporters who do a lot of unnoticed work to keep the sport at the highest level possible, but they need more support, funding and research.

“We need to keep elevating women’s rugby and investing in the future of girls and women.”

Olivia also encouraged newcomers to take the leap and get involved.

“I want young girls and women to know they can be strong, intense and aggressive, and find a sport that welcomes that.

“As a teacher in training, I often speak to young girls about rugby because they don’t realize that it is even an option for them.

“That’s why International Women’s Day is so important, it’s a chance to thank the women who paved the way and reflect on what still needs to be done.”

Kukri Sports is proud to stand alongside female athletes like Olivia and the UBC Women’s Rugby team — providing kit, support, and a platform for women to excel in sport and education worldwide.

Why do rugby clubs partner with Kukri?

– Proven long-term partnerships

– Dedicated account management – one point of contact to guide your project from design to delivery

– Fully bespoke sportswear – choose from over 200 designs.

– Flexible ordering options

– eCommerce management – with a dedicated online shop built and managed by Kukri

Join the team:

If you’re looking for a sportswear partner that delivers reliability, accountability and long-term value, get in touch and partner with Kukri today.

24/01/202623/01/2026

As International Day of Education is recognised globally, Kukri Sports continues to play a key role in supporting schools and universities through sport.

For over 25 years, Kukri has built a broad footprint across the education sector, partnering with schools and universities in North America and internationally.

Supplying sportswear across 100+ sports, Kukri supports education providers at every level – from grassroots participation programmes to elite performance environments – helping them deliver consistent, inclusive sporting experiences every academic year.

Supporting schools through sport

Schools require sportswear that is reliable, cost-effective and built to last.

Kukri provides schools with reliable, high-quality sportswear that supports participation and performance.

Our offering includes:

– Multi-sport expertise: Supporting 100+ sports with fully bespoke designs for every team and athlete

– Custom and bespoke options: Full flexibility to create kit that reflects your school’s identity

– Reliable supply: Proven 98% on-time delivery, with lead times as short as 48 hours for stocked items

– Durable, long-lasting kit: Designed to withstand repeated use and maintain consistency through the use of sustainable fabric options

– Dedicated support: Account managers provide guidance, clear communication and help manage growing participation

Debbie Skene, Director of Sport at Rugby School, said “Rugby School has created a functional and inclusive range of sports kit with the help and support of Kukri.

“Students and staff all look and feel part of our sports teams. We take great pride in our ‘nobody on the bench’ approach, and this kit embodies our ‘whole person, whole point’ ethos.

“We are delighted to be associated with Kukri.”

Supporting universities through sport

Kukri works with universities to deliver performance-led sportswear that meets the demands of elite competition, while supporting participation across campus.

Our offering includes:

– Multi-sport expertise: Supporting 100+ sports with fully bespoke designs for every team and athlete

– Custom and bespoke options: Full flexibility to create kit that reflects your university’s identity and team requirements

– Reliable supply: Proven 98% on-time delivery, with lead times as short as 48 hours for stocked items and 3 weeks for bespoke orders

– Managed supply solutions: Streamlined ecommerce and distribution reduce administrative workload

– Dedicated account management: Guidance and support across all aspects of kit provision and campus-wide programmes

– Support beyond kit: Scholarships, hardship funding, and internship opportunities to help students develop on and off the pitch

At Loughborough University alone, Kukri delivered over 23,500 units in 2025 across 50+ sports. This demonstrates our ability to manage large-scale supply while delivering kit that meets performance and identity requirements.

Phillip Cook, Head of Performance Sport at Manchester Metropolitan University, said “Kukri’s commitment through the scholarship has made a real difference to our performance sport programme.

“It has created opportunities for more than 65 talented student-athletes to develop both on and off the field.”

A trusted partner for education

Through long-term partnerships and a clear understanding of the education sector, Kukri continues to support schools and universities in delivering high-quality sporting experiences.

Schools and universities looking for a reliable, long-term education sportswear partner can find out more by visiting the link below.

18/12/2025

As 2025 comes to a close, Kukri Sports is reflecting on a year of real progress, strengthened partnerships and continued commitment to supporting athletes worldwide.

Sustained Growth Across Global Partnerships:

Throughout the year, Kukri welcomed over 25 new partnerships and renewed over 15 long-standing partnerships worldwide. These developments reflect the brand’s commitment to delivering innovative, performance-driven sportswear to teams from grassroots to elite.

A key milestone in 2025 was the formation of a strategic partnership with Sportz88, helping to support Kukri’s long-term ambitions to enhance its presence and capabilities across Europe.

New partnerships spanned multiple regions, including Australia Cycling, British Rowing, Volleyball England, Dubai Hurricanes and Hong Kong Squash, as well as extending long-standing regional partnerships with Commonwealth Games Canada, Rugby Alberta, UBC Women’s Rugby, Rock Rugby, Field Hockey BC and more.

Key partnership renewals also included Team England, Commonwealth Games Canada, England Athletics and British Wheelchair Basketball, all of which highlight the brand’s reputation as a trusted sportswear supplier for hundreds of different sports.

The ambassador programme also expanded, welcoming two inspirational athletes – nine-time Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft, and Britain’s first-ever tumbling World Games champion Megan Kealy.

Celebrating Partner Achievements:

Across 2025, many Kukri partners recorded notable achievements and milestones, including:

– UBC Women’s Rugby: Crowned back-to-back U Sports Women’s Rugby national champions.

– Guelph Gryphons: Men’s rugby team made history with their first-ever national championship title.

– Oshawa Vikings: Competed in this year’s IMART World Cup, with the women’s team reaching the semi-finals and the men’s team reaching the silver plate semi-finals.

– Somerset CCC: Vitality Blast champions and inaugural season for the women’s team.

– British Rowing: World Rowing Cup winners and successful defence of European Championship title.

– Loughborough University: Won their 44^th consecutive BUCS title.

– British Wheelchair Basketball: Silver medals for both squads at the IWBF European Championships.

– Loughborough Lightning: NXT Gen team secured their first-ever NSL title, with the senior team reaching their fifth consecutive grand final.

– Dubai College: U19 Girls rugby team were crowned Gulf Dubai 7s champions.

– Dubai Hurricanes: Men’s team were crowned Gulf Men’s League Champions at the Dubai 7s.

– Waikato Rugby: FPC squad claimed back-to-back Premiership titles.

– Australia Cycling: Squads triumphed at this year’s UCI Track World Championships, with the men’s team winning silver and the women’s team winning a team sprint bronze medal for the second consecutive year.

These achievements reflect the dedication of the athletes and support teams Kukri works alongside and the collaborative approach taken to performance apparel.

Commitment to Inclusivity, Community & Athlete Development:

Kukri continued its commitment to EDI and community impact through several initiatives, including:

– Supporting Belfast City Marathon with official participant and training kit

– Designing adaptable kit for Oshawa Vikings’ mixed ability squads competing in Spain

– Creating bespoke kit for the 26 Mountains 2 Mayo challenge in support of Cancer Fund for Children

– Ongoing support for Dubai 7s supplying bespoke sportswear for over 25 partner teams

– Strengthening off-field support for schools and universities through hardship funds, internships and ambassador opportunities

Looking Ahead to 2026:

Heading into 2026, Kukri is preparing for another positive year, including supporting partners competing at the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

Continued investment in product development, service enhancement and global operations will remain central to the brand’s focus.

Andy Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “2025 has been a year of steady progress across the business. From welcoming new partners to supporting long-standing relationships, we’re proud of the work our teams have delivered.

“As we look to 2026, our commitment remains the same: to support athletes and organisations with reliable, high-quality sportswear and to keep building on the foundations we’ve set.”

Chris Marshall, Group COO added, “This year has highlighted the value of strong relationships and operational consistency. Our teams globally have continued to refine processes and enhance service levels to ensure our partners receive the support they expect. We look forward to developing this further in 2026.”

For teams, organisations and institutions seeking a high-performance, athlete-focused sportswear partner, find out more and get in touch with us today.

11/12/202510/12/2025

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.

05/12/202504/12/2025

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.