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Author: Karl

Kukri Sports and Team England Extend Partnership Ahead of the 2026 Commonwealth Games

From Glasgow to Glasgow – A Legacy of Pride, Progress, and Purpose.

Kukri Sports and Team England are proud to extend their dynamic partnership through to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, marking a powerful full-circle moment that celebrates over a decade of collaboration, innovation, and shared belief in the power of sport to inspire change.

Announced on St George’s Day, a day symbolic of national pride and unity, this renewed partnership signals much more than a continuation — it’s a bold step forward in championing inclusivity, sustainability, and the remarkable strength of Team England’s athletes — across all disciplines.

As the official kit supplier, Kukri Sports will once again deliver cutting-edge performance wear and delegate kits for athletes, coaches, and staff — while also launching a bold new retail range ahead of the Games. But this isn’t just about what athletes wear — it’s about how they feel when they wear it.

“St George’s Day is a celebration of English identity, unity and pride – values that are reflected in our ongoing partnership with Team England,” said Andrew Ronnie, CEO of Kukri Sports. “From Glasgow 2014 to Glasgow 2026, we are honored to once again support Team England’s athletes as they compete on the global stage.”

Mark Osikoya, CEO of Commonwealth Games England commented; “Our partnership with Kukri began at Glasgow 2014 and we’re delighted to be working with them once again as we return to the city in 2026, marking our fourth consecutive collaboration at the Commonwealth Games. We know how much it means for athletes to wear their Team England kit and as a valued partner, Kukri shares our commitment to inclusion, diversity, and sustainability. Work is already underway to develop a kit for athletes, volunteers and staff that not only supports performance but also prioritises reducing waste, sourcing sustainable fabrics, and incorporating recycled materials.”

Celebrating Every Athlete – Para, Non-disabled, and Across All Genders
At the heart of this partnership lies a deep, unwavering commitment to inclusion and equality. Kukri Sports is working hand-in-hand with para-athletes, sport-specific representatives, and advocates for gender equity to co-create apparel that is fully inclusive in design, fit, and function — ensuring every athlete feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

From adaptive fits for seated athletes to accessible fastenings and gender-responsive design choices, the 2026 kit range is being built to perform without compromise — and to proudly reflect the diversity of Team England in all its forms.

Designed for Impact – On the Field and for the Planet

Inclusivity goes hand-in-hand with sustainability — and Kukri is pushing boundaries here too. The Glasgow 2026 range will feature eco-conscious materials, reduced waste processes, and a focus on long-term environmental impact — aligning with Team England’s commitment to creating a more sustainable future through sport.

Whether it’s on the track, in the pool, on the court, or behind the scenes, every athlete and every voice matters — and this partnership ensures they all have the platform they deserve.

“Team England is about unity, resilience, and rising together,” added Andrew Ronnie. “We’re proud to stand behind every athlete — para, able-bodied, first-timer, or returning hero — as they get ready to represent their country on one of the world’s biggest stages.”

As preparations ramp up towards the 2026 games, this renewed partnership ensures that Team England athletes will continue to be supported by world-class apparel, created by a brand with deep roots in the sporting community.

Find out more about Team England

Inclusivity in Sport: Why Age Should Never Be a Barrier

In a world where sport is often associated with youth and peak physical performance, the idea that age can be a limitation still persists. But at Kukri Sports, we believe that sports such as athletics should be for everyone, regardless of age or background. The beauty of sport lies in its inclusivity—it has the power to unite, inspire, and empower people from all walks of life.

The Myth of ‘Too Old’

One of the biggest misconceptions in sport is that there is an age limit to participation. Whether it’s running, throwing, or jumping, athletics offers a discipline for everyone. The truth is, taking up or continuing sport later in life not only benefits physical health but also enhances mental well-being, social connection, and overall quality of life.

We caught up with Tracey Francis, the Participation Programmes Manager at England Athletics to give her thoughts on the topic, “staying physically engaged supports positive mental health, reduces loneliness and isolation, and provides opportunities to socialise, meet new people, and build friendships.” Physically, “it enhances brain health, bone density, cardiovascular fitness, and muscle tone.” “Regular activity can also speed up recovery from illness or injury and plays a vital role in rehabilitation.”

From grassroots runners finding their stride later in life to former elite athletes staying involved in competitive masters’ events, countless individuals are proving that age is no barrier to achievement. Park runs, veterans’ athletics leagues, and community clubs are thriving with participants who defy the outdated notion that sport is only for the young.

The Power of Inclusivity

Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do at Kukri Sports. Our commitment extends beyond providing high-quality sportswear; we aim to support individuals at every stage of their sporting journey. Through partnerships with clubs, schools, and organisations worldwide, we champion opportunities for athletes of all ages to access the right apparel to perform at their best.

Tracey continued, “We highlight the importance of inclusivity by offering three participation levels: Get Me Started, Keep Me Going, and Challenge Me.” These tiers ensure that individuals of all ages and abilities have tailored training plans to meet their needs. The initiative also provides guide runners for those with visual impairments and dedicated Mental Health Champions to support participants’ well-being.

Sport is about more than just competition—it’s about participation, perseverance, and personal growth. Whether you’re taking your first steps onto a track, returning to the field after years away, or setting new personal records at 60, 70, or beyond, your journey in athletics is uniquely yours.

Overcoming Barriers and Fears

For those hesitant to take part in athletics due to age, England Athletics stresses that running, like walking, is a lifelong skill. With over 40% of RunTogether participants aged 40–55 and 70% female, the programme encourages walking and jogging as an accessible entry point. Running is also a proven rehabilitation tool, with research showing it can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and boost overall well-being.

Tracey explains, “Our approach focuses on real-life participants rather than elite athletes, reinforcing that anyone can get involved.” Their running groups operate on core values of fun, safety, inclusivity, and friendliness, with qualified leaders providing support at every stage.

The Social and Community Impact

Participation in sports later in life isn’t just about fitness—it also enhances confidence, social connections, and community engagement. According to Tracey, “research shows that group running is more enjoyable, social, and safe.” Many groups meet in community spaces and often gather at local cafés after their runs, fostering friendships and support networks beyond the track.

The social aspect of RunTogether is just as important as the physical benefits, and that’s why many groups incorporate social activities into their schedules. Feeling part of a community motivates individuals to stay engaged and continue their athletic journeys.

The Role of Sportswear in Supporting Older Athletes

While comfort is key when starting out, the right sportswear can significantly enhance confidence and performance. Tracey states, “As runners progress, they see the value in investing in proper footwear, technical clothing, and group kits to foster a sense of belonging.”

Kukri Sports is proud to support this movement, ensuring that athletes of all ages have access to high-quality, performance-driven apparel tailored to their needs. Our partnership with England Athletics and RunTogether provides essential support for their voluntary workforce, equipping Run Leader Mentors with Kukri kit to maintain professionalism and visibility within the community.

So, whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a returning competitor, or someone considering taking up athletics for the first time—go for it. Break the barriers, challenge the stereotypes, and embrace the journey. Sport belongs to everyone, and age should never be a reason to sit on the sidelines.

At Kukri Sports, we’re here to support you every step, stride, and sprint along the way – Get in touch

Learn more about Run Together

Kukri Sports and British Rowing Launch New Partnership to Empower UK Rowing Community

Kukri Sports is excited to announce a new partnership with British Rowing, the national governing body for rowing in the UK. This collaboration marks an exciting chapter as both organisations join forces to enhance the British rowing community through high-performance, sustainable sportswear, designed specifically to support rowers from the grassroots level to elite competitions.

As British Rowing’s official sportswear partner, Kukri Sports will supply custom-designed performance apparel and merchandise to rowers, clubs, and events nationwide. This partnership will focus on delivering innovative, high-quality apparel that meets the unique demands of rowing, helping British Rowing promote inclusivity and excellence throughout the sport.

“We are honoured to partner with British Rowing,” said Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO – Kukri Sports “At Kukri Sports, we recognise the importance of specialized sportswear for athletes’ performance and success. This partnership is an incredible opportunity for us to work closely with British Rowing to create products that truly meet the needs of rowers at every level, whether they’re training, competing, or celebrating their love for the sport.”

Through this partnership, Kukri Sports will provide branded merchandise and gear at British Rowing’s major events, including the British Rowing Championships and British Rowing Masters Championships. By delivering high-quality apparel to athletes, fans, and supporters, the partnership aims to strengthen community engagement and raise awareness for rowing across the UK.

“We are delighted to be partnering once again with Kukri. This new partnership will bring the very best of performance apparel to our GB rowing team athletes, club rowers, volunteers and staff on and off the water. With co created on water wear we hope this partnership will help take our performance to the next level across the whole sport.” Alastair Marks, CEO British Rowing

The new partnership between Kukri Sports and British Rowing is set to elevate the sport of rowing in the UK, providing rowers, clubs, and fans with the support and apparel they need to succeed. Together, they aim to empower athletes and grow the sport of rowing at all levels.

About British Rowing:
British Rowing is the national governing body for rowing in the UK, dedicated to fostering the growth and success of the sport across the country. With a mission to support participation and international achievement, British Rowing serves a vibrant network of rowers, clubs, and events from the grassroots to elite levels. For more information, visit www.britishrowing.org.

University Support – Beyond the Sportswear

As specialists in bespoke sportswear, Kukri Sports are dedicated to delivering market-leading apparel to athletes of all levels, including many top sporting universities.

Our support extends beyond sportswear, as we recognise the challenges faced by students. By collaborating closely with our university partners, we provide a range of additional support tailored to their needs.

Scholarship Programs

Kukri Sports are proud to support students at our partner universities through scholarships. These awards provide financial assistance to help cover educational costs and are designed to recognise and reward talent, dedication, and potential. By supporting students academically and athletically, we aim to help them achieve their goals and thrive during their university journey.

This program has been (or are currently being) rolled out at the University of Exeter and the University r Worcester

“With the support of Kukri we are able to provide sports scholars within our performance programme with financial assistance to support their international sport expenses, such as accommodation and travel for international level competition.” Paul Kirby, Senior Operations Manager, University of Exeter – Sport

“The financial support afforded by Kukri, in addition to funds and holistic support provided by the University of Worcester, can foster their overall athletic and career progression, allowing students to achieve success both on and off the field.” Charlotte Beaman-Evans, UW Sport Performance and Scholarship lead, on behalf of University of Worcester

Hardship Funds

Kukri understand the challenges students may face during their university journey. That’s why we’re also proud to support hardship funds at some of our partner universities. These funds provide financial assistance to students experiencing unexpected difficulties, helping them stay focused on their studies and athletic commitments without added financial stress.

This fund has recently been offered to Plymouth Marjon University who are in the process of distributing the funding out to the students who need it most.

“Working with Kukri for the last few years has gone beyond providing sport clothing to our students and staff.

Finances continue to be a challenge for all students and the hardship fund has allowed us to support students by providing sport clothing for their academic course or sport teamwear and reduce the outgoings of our students for those that need it the most.

We could not do this without the support of Kukri and it is one of many reasons why we are so pleased to be working together and look forward to the development of our partnership”. Laurence Gully – Director of Sport, Physical Education and Commercial Servies at Plymouth Marjon University.

Internships

There is also a commitment to helping university students gain valuable real-world experience. These opportunities allow students to develop practical skills, enhance their knowledge, and build a strong foundation for their future careers, all while being supported in a dynamic and professional environment.

This opportunity has already been rolled out at a couple of our universities, Loughborough University and Nottingham Trent University, with the latest Intern due to start in the spring.

“These opportunities allow students to develop practical skills, gain real-world experience, and enhance their employability. Work-based learning also boosts motivation and engagement while enabling students to build valuable professional networks.

This process is successful only when we collaborate with partners who share our vision for workplace learning.

Our partnership with Kukri has exemplified this vision, offering our students a holistic experience of working within the industry. By gaining valuable insights into the company as a whole and developing skills relevant to various departments, our students have benefited greatly from this collaboration.” Valerie Dennehy, School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences Placements Director & University Teacher in Sport & Exercise Psychology

Work Experience

Kukri Sports are dedicated to supporting students at our partner universities by offering work experience opportunities. These placements provide students with hands-on industry insights, practical skills, and a chance to explore potential career paths, helping them build confidence and prepare for life after graduation.

Recent interns have included Ahmed Ahmed and Ranée James who both felt the benefits of having real-work experience to add to their CVs when entering the job market, post university.

“The best part of this internship was taking what I’ve learned in my university classes and applying it in the real world. The hands-on experience has been invaluable, and it’s made me more excited than ever to pursue a career in sports marketing,” Ahmed Ahmed.

Kukri Sports is proud to go beyond providing bespoke sportswear by actively supporting university students in multiple facets of their journey.

Through scholarships, hardship funds, internships, and work experience opportunities, we aim to make a meaningful impact on students’ lives, both on and off the field.

By working closely with our partner universities, we ensure that this support is tailored to address their unique challenges and goals. Together, we’re not just shaping the future of sportswear but also empowering the next generation of athletes, professionals, and leaders. Are you looking for a new sportswear partner? – GET IN TOUCH

Kukri Sports and Netball Northern Ireland Announce Partnership Extension

Kukri Sports are delighted to announce an extension to their long-term partnership with Netball Northern Ireland for several more years. Kukri Sports, a global leader in custom sportswear, will continue as the official kit supplier for Netball NI’s representative teams and has now become the title partner for the Netball NI Premier League.

The partnership extension highlights Kukri Sports’ commitment to supporting netball at all levels, from grassroots clubs to elite performance squads. As title partner for the Netball NI Premier League, Kukri will play a pivotal role in enhancing the visibility and profile of domestic netball, a key focus area for Netball Northern Ireland.

“Kukri Sports is delighted to come on board as the title partner for the Netball NI Premier League. As well as being long-term partners to the Warriors and NNI representative teams, we have been thrilled to supply many Clubs and Schools at the grassroots level. We look forward to supporting all of our clubs during another exciting season!” – Neil Patterson, Kukri Sports Country Manager N.I. & R.O.I.

Netball Northern Ireland has worked closely with Kukri for many years, ensuring players at all levels have access to high-quality kit, and the partnership will now expand to include significant support for the domestic game.

“As the new netball season gets into full swing, it is wonderful to be able to confirm our continued partnership with Kukri Sports. One of our longest supporters, Kukri Sports recognised the potential and opportunities in our game and have become as passionate about our sport as we are. Kukri Sports have been a key contributor to Netball NI as we have grown and developed our performance and participation pathways and we are thrilled to build on the relationship we have established as we extend our Official Kit Partner contract as well as now increasing the support to becoming our Premier League title partner.” – Karen Rollo-Stewart, Chief Executive at Netball Northern Ireland.

“Kukri has been a partner of our performance squads for a number of years now, and it is great to see that as the leading sports kit provider across our clubs and schools, they are now also leading the way in supporting our domestic game. Visibility, profile, and recognition for our club teams is a key area of focus for us, and we are delighted to welcome Kukri as the title partner to help us deliver on that.” – Lisa Rickett, Head of Development at Netball Northern Ireland.

With the new partnership, Kukri Sports will further strengthen its connection with the netball community across Northern Ireland, supporting players, clubs, and schools in their pursuit of excellence.

About Netball Northern Ireland:
Netball Northern Ireland is the national governing body for netball in Northern Ireland. Dedicated to growing the sport at all levels, Netball NI supports athletes, clubs, and schools in developing the sport across the region – Find Out More

BHM: Annais Kamanga – From Self-Taught Gymnast to International Competitor

As we continue our Black History Month series, today we turn our attention to Annais Kamanga a Welsh international gymnast, whose story highlights the struggles of Covid, leading to her competing on a global stage.

Early Beginnings

At just 7 years old, Annais Kamanga’s journey into the world of gymnastics began like many childhood dreams—watching YouTube videos and practicing in her living room. Her passion for the sport ignited early, starting what would become a lifelong love for the sport.

“I started gymnastics when I was 7 years old,” Annais recalls. “I was watching videos on YouTube and trying to teach myself some of the skills. By 8, I began my elite gymnastics career, and I’ve loved the sport ever since.”

However, like many athletes, Annais faced challenges along the way. The COVID-19 pandemic tested her dedication, making training difficult and shaking her motivation. But with support from her family, teammates, coaches, and the unwavering encouragement of mentors, she pushed through the difficult times.

“I think the main reason I’m where I am today is that I didn’t give up. When COVID hit, training got harder, and I lost motivation. But thanks to the support of my family, teammates, and coaches, I regained my passion for the sport. I couldn’t be prouder of what I’ve achieved.”

Achievements on the International Stage

Annais’s talent and determination have led to significant milestones in her career, with one of her proudest moments being her first international competition for Wales at the Northern European Championships last year.

“This was such an amazing achievement for me,” she shares. “Competing at that international level for Wales made me incredibly proud. I felt so happy in that moment, and I can only hope to build on that in the future.”

Another standout accomplishment came at the Spanish Championships, where she and her team secured a bronze medal. “Helping the team win that bronze was a very happy moment for all of us. I couldn’t be prouder of the girls.”

As the official partner of Welsh Gymnastics, Kukri Sports has proudly supported athletes like Annais in their journey to represent Wales on international stages, ensuring they have the high-performance apparel needed to excel.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Gymnastics

With her sights set firmly on the future, Annais is driven by her ambition to continue competing on the international stage.

“I hope to compete in more international competitions for Wales and, hopefully, for Great Britain in the future. The next Commonwealth Games would be an incredible opportunity for me, and I’m working hard to make that dream a reality.”

The Importance of Black History Month

For Annais, Black History Month holds deep significance. It’s a time to celebrate the achievements of Black individuals and provide inspiration for the next generation of athletes.

“Black History Month is an opportunity to spotlight and celebrate the achievements of Black individuals. It’s very important to me because it gives me a chance to support other Black athletes, especially those younger than me who might look up to me.”

As Annais Kamanga continues her gymnastics journey, she is not only making her mark in the sport but also inspiring others through her story of perseverance, ambition, and pride in her heritage. And with the backing of Kukri Sports, Welsh Gymnastics’ official partner, her future looks brighter than ever.

BHM: Hal Dwobeng – From Trafford to the World Stage

For Hal Dwobeng, Lacrosse has been a life-defining journey that began at a local school in Trafford, Manchester. “I first started lacrosse in primary school, around 10 years old. In Trafford, the borough of Manchester where I grew up, Pop Lacrosse—a non-contact version of the sport—was a big part of school life,” Hal recalls. That early exposure to the game led to a local tournament that would set the course of his future. Encouraged by teachers and peers, he joined Brooklands Lacrosse Club to explore full-contact lacrosse, and from that point on, there was no looking back.

Rising through the junior ranks, Hal continued to play as he moved on to the University of Nottingham. After university, a career relocation brought him to London, where he now proudly plays for Spencer Lacrosse Club, still fuelled by the passion that started in those school tournaments.

A Proud Legacy on the International Stage with Kukri Sports as a Key Partner

With years of dedication, training, and talent, Hal has achieved a rare and coveted honour—representing both England in Field Lacrosse and Great Britain in the fast-paced 6s format. Competing on the international stage at major world championships in Netanya, Israel (2018), Birmingham, Alabama (2022), and San Diego (2023), he describes the experience as surreal. “It is always an honour to suit up for your country,” he says, “and being fortunate enough to do so in world championships is amazing.”

Backing Hal and many others on their journey is Kukri Sports, the official partner of England Lacrosse. Kukri plays an essential role in supporting the national team and providing athletes with high-quality sportswear that enables them to perform at their peak.

Setting Sights on LA28 and Beyond

As lacrosse prepares to make its debut in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, new doors open for the sport—and for Hal’s future. “In terms of goals, I try to focus on making the best version of myself available for selection for my club and country, but with the Olympics on the horizon, it’s hard to keep that out of sight. The main goal for now is contributing to the team’s qualification journey for LA28. If British Lacrosse can get there, I’ll set my sights on competing, but just being part of the journey would make me incredibly proud.”

Celebrating Black History Month and Making an Impact

For Hal, Black History Month is a time to honour the achievements of Black sportsmen and women. But he also recognizes its broader importance: “It’s a chance to remember Black achievements and contributions beyond just sport.”In lacrosse, where Black athletes remain underrepresented, he is committed to making a difference. “I’m proud to be one of the few Black internationals for England and Great Britain. If I could inspire others who look like me to get involved in the sport, that would be an achievement in itself.”

Supported by Kukri Sports, Hal’s story of determination, resilience, and passion for lacrosse is one of inspiring others and breaking barriers. With an eye on the Olympics and a commitment to inclusivity, he’s proving that dreams started in local communities can reach global stages.

Dynamic Sports: Innovating Performance on the Sand

Beach volleyball is an exhilarating and fast-paced sport, known for its blend of athleticism, agility, and strategy, played on sandy courts worldwide. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, Kukri Sports is proud to be at the forefront, providing bespoke, high-performance sportswear that meets the demands of this unique game.

Our mission is to enhance the experience of athletes and fans, offering tailored apparel that supports peak performance, comfort, and durability. Kukri Sports is dedicated to empowering athletes at all levels, helping them perform at their best in every competition.

Why Choose Beach Volleyball?

Fitness and Agility: Beach volleyball offers an excellent full-body workout, building strength, cardiovascular fitness, and balance on the challenging sand surface.

Outdoor Adventure: The sport thrives in outdoor environments, combining sun, sand, and the thrill of competition for a unique athletic experience.

Teamwork and Strategy: Success in beach volleyball relies on communication, collaboration, and quick thinking between teammates, fostering a strong bond of camaraderie.

How to Get Started with Beach Volleyball

  1. Learn the Rules: Understanding key elements like serving, passing, setting, and spiking is essential. Many online resources and clinics offer introductory lessons for beginners.
  2. Invest in Proper Gear: Beach volleyball requires minimal equipment—a good-quality volleyball, a net, and appropriate sportswear designed for sand play.
  3. Join a Local League or Team: Look for local courts or beach volleyball leagues to find a community of players and opportunities to participate in games and tournaments.
  4. Train Regularly: Like any sport, consistent practice helps refine skills and build the stamina needed to succeed on the sand.

Kukri Sports’ Role in Supporting Beach Volleyball

Kukri Sports is committed to providing world-class sportswear for beach volleyball athletes. Our custom designs ensure that athletes are equipped with breathable, lightweight fabrics that enhance mobility and performance on the sand. We understand the unique demands of this sport, and our collaboration with elite athletes allows us to continuously refine and innovate our products, ensuring durability and comfort in every match.

From high-performance jerseys and shorts to tailored training gear, Kukri Sports empowers athletes to perform their best, whether competing on the international stage or training at the grassroots level.

Kukri Sports’ Official Ambassadors: The Bello Brothers

At Kukri Sports, we are proud to have the Bello Brothers as our official ambassadors for beach volleyball. Joaquín and Javier Bello are not only trailblazers in British beach volleyball, but they also represent the values of dedication, teamwork, and excellence that we champion. As rising stars on the international stage, their passion for the sport and commitment to growth make them perfect representatives of our brand. We collaborate closely with them to create high-performance, sport-specific gear tailored to the unique demands of beach volleyball.

Find out more about our Ambassadors

Conclusion

Beach volleyball is more than just a sport—it’s a test of endurance, skill, and teamwork in a fun, sun-filled environment. With Kukri Sports’ unwavering support and dedication to high-quality sportswear, the future of beach volleyball looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re an experienced player or just beginning your journey, now is the perfect time to get involved in the exciting world of beach volleyball.

For more information on how Kukri Sports supports beach volleyball and other sports, visit our website and discover how we can help elevate your game.

BHM: Charity Williams – From Childhood Dream to Olympic Medalist

As we continue our Black History Month series, today, we turn our focus to Charity, an Olympic rugby player whose inspiring story showcases not only her athletic excellence but also her commitment to creating space for future Black athletes.

Early Inspiration

For Charity, her Olympic dream began at 8 years old while watching the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Mesmerised by the performances of the athletes on her TV screen, she made a vow that she would one day become an Olympian. “At the time, I was a gymnast,” she recalls, “but as I got older, it became clear that being an Olympic gymnast wasn’t in the cards for me. So, I knew I had to pivot.”

That turning point came when Charity was in Grade 10. She had already been trying out various sports, but it wasn’t until a teammate from her wrestling team encouraged her to attend a rugby practice that everything clicked. “From the first day I stepped onto that rugby field, I fell in love,” Charity says. “It felt like all of my dreams were coming together.”

Finding Rugby and Rapid Rise

Charity’s passion for rugby grew quickly, and it didn’t take long for her talent to be recognised. After two years of playing high school rugby, and a standout season with Team Ontario, she was selected by Team Canada in 2013. This opportunity required her to move to Victoria to train with the national team—an opportunity she embraced fully, even completing her final year of high school there.

“Moving to Victoria at that age was daunting,” she admits, “but I knew it was the next step toward fulfilling my Olympic dream.”

Olympic Journey and Achievements

One of Charity’s proudest moments came in 2016 when, at just 19 years old, she was named to Team Canada’s rugby squad for the Rio Olympics. “I was the youngest player to make the squad, and when I found out, I cried through the entire meeting,” Charity reflects. “It wasn’t just about going to the Olympics—it was the realiation that my younger self, who once sat in front of the TV watching those incredible athletes, was now becoming one of them.”

At the Rio Olympics, Charity and her team went on to win the bronze medal. Yet for her, the most special part of that journey wasn’t the medal itself—it was the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice, and a dream that never wavered.

Her Olympic story didn’t end in Rio. In 2024, Charity was part of the Team Canada squad that earned a silver medal at the Paris Olympics. “Winning silver was amazing, but it wasn’t just about the medal,” she explains. “It was about what we accomplished as a team. The challenges we faced and overcame together over the past three years made that achievement so meaningful. We inspired each other every day, and I think that was felt by everyone who watched and supported us.”

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Charity remains committed to her sport and to inspiring the next generation of rugby players. Currently, she plays for another of Kukri’s official partners; the University of British Columbia (UBC) and has her sights set on winning a national championship with her team. “Right now, I’m focused on enjoying my time at UBC, connecting with the team, and having a blast,” she says. “Of course, I’m also hoping for another Olympic run in the future!”

Beyond her personal goals, Charity is passionate about creating a more inclusive and diverse rugby environment for future athletes.

Reflections on Black History Month

For Charity, Black History Month is a significant time to reflect, learn, and listen. “For me, and for people who look like me, Black History Month is every month because I am who I am 365 days a year,” she says.

Rugby in Canada has made strides in diversity and inclusivity, but Charity is quick to point out that more work needs to be done. She reflects on her experience as the only Black player selected to Canada’s rugby squad at the 2016 Olympics. “I felt a huge responsibility to be a role model for young Black kids across the country. It wasn’t that there was a lack of talented Black athletes—there was a lack of safe spaces and opportunities for them to thrive,” she explains.

Fast forward to Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024, and Charity saw firsthand how the national team had evolved. “By the time we reached Tokyo and Paris, we had a much more diverse squad, and it made all the difference. Everyone felt seen, heard, and valued. That’s the rugby I want to see going forward.”

Championing Inclusivity in Rugby

As Charity looks to the future, she hopes to continue being a voice for change within rugby. “Rugby is such a beautiful sport, and the opportunities it offers are endless. But everyone deserves access to those opportunities,” she says. “We need to keep pushing for a sport that is inclusive, diverse, and safe for all athletes, regardless of their background.”

With her Olympic medals, inspiring journey, and vision for the future, Charity remains a trailblazer both on and off the field—a powerful example of resilience, passion, and the importance of representation.