Author: Karl

21/06/202420/06/2024

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its two partners, Loughborough Lightning and Severn Stars, on reaching this season’s highly-anticipated Netball Super League Grand Final.

As the official competition and leisurewear provider for both teams, Kukri have been a dedicated partner for both teams throughout their journeys. We provide high-performance dresses designed for comfort, agility and peak performance on the court.

Both teams have displayed exceptional talent and unwavering determination throughout the season.

Seasons overview

Severn Stars sealed their place in a first-ever Netball Super League semi-final following a pulsating 61-56 away win at Leeds Rhinos, with their resilience and talent on display throughout.

Following an all-Kukri showdown in the final league game of the season, Lightning’s 72-60 win over Severn Stars confirmed a home semi-final against London Pulse. Meanwhile, Severn Stars face Manchester Thunder in their semi-final, with both matches taking place on 29 June.

The Grand Final will take place at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham, on 29 June, with the top four teams coming together for one final day to decide the placings for this season. Following a third place play off, the best two teams will go head-to-head in the final to determine this year’s champions.

Our support

Kukri is proud to partner with both teams, facilitating their performances with high-quality netball dresses that have played a role in their incredible performances on the court.

These dresses are meticulously crafted with cutting-edge technology to empower the players and unleash their full potential.

By combining a sleek design with performance-enhancing technology, our netball dresses provide Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning with the confidence and freedom of movement they need to dominate the court.

Reflecting on a fantastic season and how Kukri provides support, Gabby Marshall, captain at Severn Stars, said “I am so proud of the team for making the finals, it’s been a huge effort from everyone involved.

“We have had a brilliant season and that has been helped through our partnership with Kukri. We all absolutely love our playing dresses – they are so comfortable which allows us to easily focus on our jobs on the court!

“We are all so excited to represent Severn Stars over the finals and look to continue making history for this fantastic club.”

Loughborough Lightning captain, Nat Panagarry, who recently made her landmark 150^th appearance, expressed her delight at the team making their fourth consecutive Grand Final.

“Really proud of the group for securing a home semi-final this Saturday. We never take that for granted as players & we’re enjoying the buzz around the club going into Finals.

We know Pulse are an incredible side with world-class players & we’ve been working hard as a group this week to make sure we are prepared. I know it will be an amazing game & we can’t wait to put out a good team performance in front of our home fans. See you on Saturday. Ready for battle Lightning fans!!”

Commenting on the success of both teams, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, states “We are incredibly proud of Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning for their achievements this season. Their success reflects their hard work and our commitment to providing them with the best support possible to thrive on and off the court. We wish them the very best in the finals.”

Images Credit: Tara St Clair

Looking ahead to the finals

As the Netball Super League Finals Day approaches, Kukri is exited to witness the culmination of a season filled with dedication. We are confident that both Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning will continue to inspire with their exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

Kukri wishes both teams the very best of luck ahead of Finals Day.

Find out more about Severn Stars

Find out more about Loughborough Lightning

How to watch

You can watch the action unfold on Sky Sports’ official YouTube account, or by alternatively purchasing tickets from the following link here.

Get in touch

At Kukri Sports we deliver superior sportswear and exceptional service, driven by a deep understanding of the athlete journey from grassroots to performance sport.

Get in touch today to learn how Kukri Sports can support you in your journey.

17/06/202414/06/2024

In a world where mainstream sports often take precedence, Kukri Sports stands firm in its belief that every sport, regardless of its level of exposure, deserves recognition and support. Our commitment to championing sports seen as ‘niche’ extends beyond merely providing apparel; it’s about enriching the global sports culture and ensuring that every athlete has the opportunity to showcase their talents.

Our partnerships with organisations such as England Lacrosse, British Fencing, British Wheelchair Basketball, and Pickleball Ireland exemplify our dedication to inclusivity and excellence. Through these collaborations, we offer tailored support to each sport, ranging from designing specialised apparel to sponsoring events and initiatives that promote growth and participation.

England Lacrosse benefits from our collaboration in its development across all levels, from grassroots to elite competition, ensuring that players have the necessary resources for success. British Fencing and British Wheelchair Basketball receive our commitment to inclusivity through customised apparel that enhances performance and aligns with the unique demands of each sport. Pickleball Ireland, with its growing community, is also fully supported in nurturing the sport and equipping players with high-quality sportswear tailored to their specific needs.

At Kukri Sports, inclusivity is ingrained in our ethos. We firmly believe that every athlete, irrespective of their sport’s mainstream popularity, deserves the opportunity to pursue their passion and realize their aspirations. Through our innovative sportswear and steadfast support, we are broadening the horizons for niche sports and fostering a more inclusive and diverse sporting community.

Join us as we continue to dismantle barriers and celebrate the passion, dedication, and diversity that define sports. Together, let’s ensure that every athlete, regardless of their chosen sport, has the platform to shine. At Kukri Sports, we take pride in supporting athletes in their quest for excellence.

Your Sport. Your Team. Your Design

At Kukri Sports, we support athletes across over 100 different sports worldwide. From cricket to rugby, hockey, netball athletics, and niche sports, our customisable apparel is designed to enhance performance and fit your unique needs

With Kukri Sports, you’ll find the gear you need to succeed, no matter your sport – Get In Touch

31/05/202428/05/2024

In the world of sports, where the spotlight shines on the stars, it’s the unseen dedication and expertise that truly powers every performance. Join us as we peel back the layers and delve into what happens “behind the seams,” spotlighting the craftsmanship that fuels our passion for bespoke sportswear.

For 25 years, Kukri Sports has been a pioneer in sportswear innovation, but our true essence lies in the craftsmanship woven into every fiber of our business.

At the core of our operations is a customer-focused team, each a specialist in their role. From visionary designers who create impressive designs to precision pattern-makers who translate these concepts into tangible form, every stitch stands as a testament to their expertise. It’s an intricate operation where each thread weaves a narrative of our steadfast dedication to excellence.

But we’re not just about crafting apparel; we’re about empowering athletes to soar. Recognising that every sport, team, and athlete is unique, we tailor our solutions with precision. Through cutting-edge technology and a profound understanding of performance, we create bespoke sportswear that exceeds expectations. Whether it’s a jersey built for durability, a kit designed for aerodynamics, or a uniform optimised for agility, our custom-made sportswear is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence.

But our journey doesn’t end in the factory. We thrive on collaboration and partnerships, listening intently to the needs of sporting institutions and co-creating to bring their visions to life. It’s a bond of trust and fueled by a shared passion—a journey where we grow together.

As we look ahead, our commitment remains steadfast. We’re constantly pushing boundaries, exploring new materials, and pioneering techniques to redefine the future of sportswear. Yet, amidst the progress being made, one thing remains unchanged: our unwavering dedication to athletes.

Behind every victory, there’s a story—a testament to the individual spirit of those who dream of success. At Kukri Sports, we’re honored to support these stories, weaving our legacy behind the seams of sporting greatness. Join us on this exhilarating journey where craftsmanship meets passion, and together, let’s elevate the game to new heights and unleash greatness.

03/04/202427/03/2024

Kukri Sports are thrilled to announce an extension to its successful partnership with Northern Ireland Volleyball, the National Governing Body for the sport. The renewed collaboration reinforces Kukri’s unwavering commitment to the development and growth of the sport across the region.

Northern Ireland Volleyball plays a pivotal role in nurturing the sport, from grassroots level to elite competition. Through the extended partnership Kukri will continue to provide playing kit and leisurewear for the Northern Ireland squads, to look the part both on and off the court.

“At Kukri Sports we are deeply passionate about supporting athletes and sports communities,” said Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland at Kukri Sports. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Northern Ireland Volleyball, an institution that shares our commitment to fostering talent, promoting inclusivity and driving excellence in the sport. Together, we will continue to elevate the sport and empower athletes across Northern Ireland.”

The partnership extension will see Kukri Sports working closely with Northern Ireland Volleyball to provide customized teamwear, training gear, and equipment solutions tailored to the specific needs of volleyball players and clubs throughout the region. By leveraging Kukri Sports’ expertise in sports apparel and equipment, Northern Ireland Volleyball aims to enhance the quality of resources available to its members and further advance the sport’s development.

Johnny McClenaghan, Treasurer NI Volleyball commented, “We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Kukri Sports. As we continue to develop our offering to our players, coaches and referees, the support and professionalism from Kukri has been second to none. The quality of the apparel and the timeliness deliveries has made a huge difference to how our squads operate and the online store has taken away a major headache from our team managers. We hope to continue to grow this partnership long into the future as we continue to grow the sport here in Northern Ireland.”

This partnership signifies a fusion of innovation and tradition on the volleyball court, aiming to enhance the overall sporting experience for Northern Ireland Volleyball players and fans alike. For more information on Northern Ireland Volleyball, please visit www.nivolleyball.com.  

If you are interested in partnering with Kukri Sports or have inquiries regarding your kit requirements, feel free to Get In Touch.

25/03/202419/03/2024

As a leading bespoke sportswear provider for the last 25 years, Kukri Sports is embarking on an exciting journey of expansion into new territories, including Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. With a strong presence already established in Canada, Ireland, the UK, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, Kukri is well-equipped to extend its global reach and offer unparalleled support to athletes, clubs, and educational providers in these dynamic regions.

In regions like Saudi Arabia, where sports participation is experiencing significant growth and diversification, Kukri’ expansion promises to meet the rising demand for high-quality sportswear. By offering personalized design consultations, efficient logistics, and distribution channels, Kukri ensures that athletes in Saudi Arabia have access to apparel that not only meets their performance needs but also reflects their unique identity and aspirations.

Similarly, in South Africa, a country renowned for its passionate sports culture and rich sporting heritage, Kukri’s entry into the market opens doors for local clubs and schools to access world-class sportswear solutions. By understanding the specific challenges and aspirations of the South African sporting community, Kukri Sports is well-positioned to provide tailored support that facilitates growth and success at all levels of the sports ecosystem.

“I am thrilled by Kukri Sports’ expansion into Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa. Our commitment to excellence and passion for empowering athletes transcend borders, and we are excited to bring our top-quality sportswear and unwavering support to these dynamic regions, fostering growth and success at every level of the sporting community.” – Andrew Ronnie, CEO of Kukri Sports

As Kukri Sports continues to push boundaries and expand its reach into new frontiers, one thing remains constant: their unwavering dedication to excellence and their belief in the transformative power of sport. In Saudi Arabia, China, South Africa, and beyond, Kukri Sports is not just outfitting athletes; they’re shaping the future of sports and inspiring a new generation of champions across continents.

02/02/202402/02/2024

Kukri Sports are delighted to announce our new 3-year partnership with Pickleball Ireland, solidifying our commitment to the rapidly growing sport. As part of this collaboration Kukri will be providing all on and off court sportswear for the Pickleball Ireland teams, across various levels.

“We are very pleased to announce that our Title sponsor for the Pickleball Ireland Irish National Championships is Kukri Sports who are a global sportswear provider and multi-sports specialists across many elite sports. We thank Kukri very much for the partnership and look forward very much to working with them.

 This is a very important relationship to us as we continue to develop and promote pickleball throughout the whole of Ireland.” John Fitzpatrick, Board Chair, Pickleball Ireland.

“Kukri are delighted to be partnering with Pickleball Ireland for the next 3 years. Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and Ireland and a sport that can be enjoyed by everyone. We look forward to supporting Pickleball Ireland events and the grassroot pickleball clubs across Ireland over the next 3 years.” Neil Patterson, Kukri Sports Country Manager Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland.

What is Pickleball?

Pickleball, a dynamic sport combining elements from badminton, tennis, and table tennis, can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors on a court akin to badminton with a modified tennis net. Two to four players, armed with robust paddles made from wood or composite materials, aim to strike a perforated polymer ball over the net.

Who are Pickleball Ireland?

Pickleball was introduced to Ireland back in 2016 and in 2022 Pickleball Ireland was set up as a not for profit legal entity which now serves as the national governing body for the sport, dedicated to promoting it locally and globally. Associated teams actively participate and compete at regional, national, and international levels – Find out more

Kukri Pickleball Ireland National Championships

Kukri Sports is proud to be a key supporter of the inaugural Kukri Pickleball Ireland National Championships, scheduled for April 6-7, 2024, at Lagan Valley Leisureplex in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. The event will witness teams at all skill levels vying for the esteemed title of official national champions – Find out more about the event

If you are interested in partnering with Kukri Sports or want to know how we can help – Get in touch.

08/01/202408/01/2024

In a significant strategic move, Kukri Sports has been acquired by the businesses Group Executive Chairman Andrew Ronnie, marking a new era for the renowned sportswear brand. This management buyout sees Andrew Ronnie taking the reins from the previous majority shareholders.

With a commitment to encouraging growth and innovation, this transition is poised to usher in a bright and promising future for Kukri Sports. The buyout ensures a seamless continuity for the brand’s esteemed partners, while also paving the way for new opportunities and pioneering initiatives in the bespoke sportswear market.

Kuits Solicitors, played an instrumental role in overseeing the legal aspects of the sale, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition of ownership.

NatWest bank have provided financial assistance, aiding the transition and are committed to support the business with its future endeavors.

Commenting on the acquisition, Andrew Ronnie stated, “Acquiring Kukri Sports is a significant milestone in my journey. Having been with the business for many years I am deeply committed to building on the brand’s legacy and steering it towards a future filled with growth, innovation, and unparalleled quality. With the support of our partners and the dedication of our team, I am confident that Kukri Sports will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the industry.”

The management buyout underscores a strategic vision aimed at harnessing the brand’s potential, capitalizing on emerging market trends, and reinforcing Kukri Sports’ position as a leader in the Global bespoke sportswear market.

09/11/202307/11/2023

As a leading teamwear sports brand Kukri Sports is reshaping the landscape of sportswear and sports partnerships, going above and beyond the traditional role of a supplier. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Kukri offers a wide range of services and solutions that make them more than just a sports brand.

On offer is not only a supply of high quality bespoke, personalised and off the shelf apparel but also providing partners a host of additional benefits:

Dedicated Account Management: As a partner you will be provided a dedicated Personal Account Manager, ensuring a seamless and personalised experience.

Support at Partner Events: Supporting partner events is a key facet of Kukri, who support partners by engaging with their core audience effectively, whether it be at a university freshers’ event or international competitions.

Bespoke Designed Sportswear: Sportswear isn’t just a uniform; it’s a symbol of identity and belonging. Kukri Sports offers a rich variety of custom-designed sportswear, tailored to the unique requirements of each partner. They understand that personalized sportswear cultivates a profound sense of identity and belonging among fans and athletes. Through the incorporation of team colours, logos, and individual details, Kukri’s sportswear creations are the fabric of community, evoking deep emotional connections and a feeling of uniqueness.

Bespoke at Scale: The sports world often demands custom products on a grand scale, and Kukri is perfectly poised to meet this demand. Their well-established infrastructure, experienced design team, adaptable production processes, and a proven track record of reliable and timely delivery are the cornerstones of their ability to cater efficiently to the unique requirements of their partners. Notably, they’ve risen to the occasion for esteemed partners like Team England and England Athletics, ensuring the highest standards of quality and customer satisfaction.

Small Production Runs: Flexibility is Kukri’s forte. Whether you need unique items for a niche netball team or comprehensive apparel ranges for National Governing Bodies, their adaptable approach ensures that they can cater to the specific needs of both grassroots and elite-level sports organizations.

Global Presence, Local Support: With a global presence, Kukri Sports ensures local support for all partners. The business has offices in 7 countries, across 5 continents – Click here to find out more

In-house Design Support: Creating the perfect sportswear designs just got more accessible. Kukri’s in-house design team collaborates with partners to bring their visions to life.

Full Range of Sustainable Sportswear: Kukri is committed to sustainability, offering an entire range of eco-friendly sportswear options. Now, you can not only look good but also feel good about your choices and be kinder to the planet.

Online E-commerce Management: Managing e-commerce platforms can be complex, but with Kukri’s expertise, it’s a streamlined and efficient process for our partners.

Inclusive Sizing: In the world of sports, having the right-sized sportswear is essential. Kukri provides an extensive range of sizes to cater to all athletes, ensuring that everyone’s kit fits to perfection and enhances their performance.

Partnership Activation Management: It’s not just about having partnerships; it’s about making the most of them. Kukri Sports actively manages and activates partnerships to ensure maximum impact, helping partners achieve their goals and objectives with bespoke activations.

Kukri Sports is not just a sports brand; it’s dedicated in a world where sports bring people together and create lifelong memories, Kukri Sports is more than just a sports brand. They are your dedicated partner, committed to elevating the game from grassroots to elite levels. With top-quality sportswear and unwavering support, they redefine what it means to be part of a team. Kukri Sports is where identity, belonging, and excellence converge, and they’re making a significant impact on and off the field.

25/10/202320/10/2023

In recent years, the world of sports has seen significant strides towards diversity and inclusion. Organisations are realizing the importance of creating a more inclusive environment, both on and off the field. Kukri Sports recently took a significant step in this direction by hosting Ranée James, a student intern, in association with ‘Black In Sport’, for a two-week placement. From a business point of view the initiative aimed to provide a valuable insight into the world of sports from the perspective of a student.

Kukri’s decision to support a ‘Black In Sport’ intern arises from the growing need for increased diversity in the sports industry. Sports, being a universal language, should reflect the richness of diversity that the world offers. Kukri recognized the need to take active steps towards inclusivity, and this initiative showcases their ongoing commitment to this mission.

During her two-week placement Ranée had a significant impact on Kukri Sports’ approach to freshers’ events. With her unique perspective and insights, she contributed to making these events more engaging and welcoming for students of all backgrounds.

When discussing her thoughts on Kukri after completing her intern she mentioned “At Kukri, there is the intimacy there between the brand and the customer, there is more dedicated support provided that other brands don’t.

“Kukri is the perfect size to help give that attention to details customers need, whilst providing incredible kit, on not just a UK basis, but a global scale.”

Additionally, Ranée had the opportunity to review Kukri Sports’ social media accounts and website from a student’s point of view. In an age where online presence is paramount, it is crucial for companies to maintain a digital space that resonates with their target audience. Her feedback provided valuable insights into making the online experience more appealing and relatable to students.

On discussing her future after her internship Ranée concluded “Working with Kukri has helped me solidify the fact that I do want to work in Sports Marketing, because this is where I feel my roots lie, I feel I can make the strongest impact and meet the most incredible people and make a huge difference from grassroots all the way up to elite level.”

Kukri Sports Group Executive Chairman Andrew Ronnie commented; “Ranée’s contribution during her internship was not just a valuable addition to our team; it was a testament to the significance of the ‘Black In Sport’ initiative. Her unique perspective and insights have not only enriched our approach but have also reminded us that diversity is the cornerstone of progress in the sports industry. We must continue to welcome, learn from, and celebrate talents like Ranee, as they shape the future of our brand and the world of sports.”

About Black In Sport

The Black in Sport Summit is an annual summit founded by a group of Loughborough University students, born out of frustration of the discrimination that black sportspeople face and the underrepresentation of black people in certain roles within sport.

It was formed to celebrate the achievements of black people across the sports Industry and built to change the narrative, celebrating the good, instead of only highlighting the bad. Black in Sport is a platform to amplify the conversation and inspire action – FIND OUT MORE