Category: News

05/11/202504/11/2025

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

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

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

Hannah Cockroft CBE – 9x Paralympic Champion

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

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

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

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

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

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

Amy Thompson – F41 Para Shot-Put Athlete

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

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

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

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

Elana Brand – Wheelchair Basketball Athlete, Loughborough University

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

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

Terry Bywater – British Wheelchair Basketball Senior Men’s

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

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

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

Driving Change Through Para-Sport

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

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

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

Beyond Limits. Together.

03/11/2025

Kukri has long been committed to supporting athletes and communities across both mainstream and niche sports.

From volleyball to dragon boat racing and pickleball, Kukri provides high-performance kit designed to help players perform at their best, while also helping grow emerging sports across Ireland.

With teams in Lisburn, Holywood, Belfast and Sandyford, Kukri is proud to support pickleball at every level, ensuring players have the kit, backing and confidence to thrive.

 From November 6-9, Lisburn Pickleball Club will once again host the Kukri Irish Pickleball Nationals, Ireland’s premier pickleball event.

The tournament will feature multiple divisions by age and skill rating, ensuring fair and competitive play for everyone. Competitors will battle it out in Round Robin play followed by knockout rounds, with divisions spanning from 18+ to 70+, giving players of all levels a chance to shine.

Kukri’s partnership with Pickleball Ireland is about more than sponsorship, it’s about identity, pride and performance.

The Lisburn players will once again step onto court wearing their custom kit, designed for comfort, breathability and style.

Pride in Every Stitch

Powered By Passion

“At 81, I’ve played a lot of sport in my time – from international squash & hockey to countless tournaments around the world, but pickleball has completely captured me.

“It’s competitive, social and keeps me young at heart. I still love stepping onto the court, giving it my all and somehow I’m still managing to bring home medals!”, said Stephanie Lynas, Lisburn Pickleball Club, Gold Medal Winner at the Kukri Irish Pickleball Nationals 2024.

Julie Nicol, winner of 14 medals in Ireland and UK competitions, added.

“Competing means a huge amount to me. It’s not just about playing matches, it’s about representing our club and seeing how far pickleball has come in the country.

“I started playing since 2018 after a friend introduced me to it and I was instantly hooked. I’ve been lucky to play in tournaments in multiple countries!”

“I’m absolutely buzzing to be playing at the Kukri Irish Nationals again this year,” said Nicki Wilson, Lisburn Pickleball Club player and multiple gold medallist.

“I’ve been lucky enough to win a few medals over the years, but honestly, it’s the atmosphere and friendships that keep me coming back.

“The Kukri gear is top-notch, the fit and quality are fantastic and I love the design of this year’s tops. It really feels like we’re part of something special.”

Expanding our Footprint in Ireland

Through partnerships with Pickleball Ireland and other sporting communities, Kukri continues to champion the growth of niche sports like pickleball and volleyball. These collaborations help provide athletes with access to quality apparel, professional support, and the visibility needed to keep these sports thriving.

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI and ROI, said “We’re incredibly proud to support the Pickleball Nationals once again.

“It’s fantastic to see players of all ages and abilities coming together to compete. It’s a rapidly growing sport across Ireland, and to be a part of that journey by raising awareness and providing quality kit is something we’re very passionate about.”

As the excitement builds for the Kukri Irish Pickleball Nationals 2025, Kukri extends its warmest wishes to every competitor taking part — from seasoned medal winners to first-time entrants.

29/09/202529/09/2025

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

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

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

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

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

Stories That Inspire:

Amy Thompson – Building confidence and visibility

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

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

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

Hannah Cockroft CBE – Redefining limits

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

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

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

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

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

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

British Fencing – Inclusivity in action

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking Ahead

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

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

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

Beyond Limits. Together.

26/08/202522/08/2025

At Kukri Sports, we believe that sport should be for everyone — regardless of age, gender, or ability. We are passionate about helping athletes and teams of all levels feel included, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Ability, or perceived lack of it, is too often seen as a reason not to take part in sport.
From grassroots players just starting out, to seasoned internationals competing at the highest level, every athlete deserves the chance to belong and thrive. At Kukri, we are proud to work with organisations and teams across all abilities, providing high-quality, bespoke sportswear that allows everyone to feel like part of the team — because they are.

Breaking Down Barriers

Barriers to participation in sport can take many forms: physical disabilities, learning difficulties, injuries, or simply feeling “not good enough.” But the benefits of sport — improved physical health, mental wellbeing, teamwork, and confidence — should be available to everyone.

That’s why we partner with a wide range of schools, clubs, associations, and governing bodies who share our belief in inclusivity. Together, we’re helping to create environments where all abilities are celebrated, and no one is left on the sidelines.

Whether it’s designing adaptive kit for para-athletes, supporting grassroots clubs to ensure everyone has access to professional-quality kit, or outfitting elite-level internationals as they represent their country, we are committed to supporting every athlete’s journey.

Supporting Every Level

We know that no two athletes or teams are the same — and that’s why we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all.
We take the time to understand the needs of each individual or organisation we work with, tailoring our sportswear and service to suit them.

From grassroots:

• Helping community clubs and schools inspire the next generation with inclusive, premium quality sportswear.

Through to elite:

• Supporting national teams and international athletes with innovative, high-performance apparel designed for the world stage.

And everything in between:

• Providing schools, universities, clubs, and associations with sportswear that helps every member feel confident and included, no matter their role or ability.

Learn more about our partners

Everyone Deserves to Belong

Sport has the power to unite people and build communities. At Kukri Sports, we’re proud to play our part in ensuring everyone — regardless of ability — feels welcome, valued, and equipped to take part.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help your team, whatever your level, visit www.kukrisports.com or get in touch with our team today.

Together, we can make sport a place where ev

20/06/202520/06/2025

Kukri Sports is proud to partner with the Lagan Dragons, Belfast’s pioneering dragon boat team that supports individuals affected by breast cancer.

Champions on and off the water

Open to all as a registered Community Amateur Sports Club, the Lagan Dragons have built a strong reputation not just for their impact off the water, but also their success on it – claiming podium finishes at events across Ireland and beyond.

Their impressive track record includes finishing first place in the BCS category at the Hong Kong Dublin Dragon Boat Regatta, a recent second place at Lough Rinn and a third-place finish at last year’s Barcelona International Dragon Boat Festival in the ‘Breast Cancer Survivors’ category.

The supporters’ t-shirt: A symbol of unity and support

Through this partnership, Kukri is providing bespoke kit for the team, including customised fleeces, smocks, performance t-shirts, vests and a specially designed supporters’ t-shirt aimed at the wider community.

Available for personalisation, 10% of each sale from the supporters’ t-shirt will be rebated directly back to the Lagan Dragons, significantly aiding their fundraising efforts and helping to spread vital awareness.

Voices of the partnership

Karen Dougan, captain of Lagan Dragons and currently living with stage four breast cancer, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative.

“We’re delighted to launch our new supporter’s tee in partnership with Kukri Sports – designed especially for fans, family and friends who stand with us on and off the water.

“With Kukri’s support, we’ve created a high-quality tee that lets you show your pride in style – whether you are cheering from the shore, volunteering at events or simply backing the team you love.”

She added, “This is more than just a great piece of kit – it represents our mission to promote a healthy and active lifestyle, provide opportunities to participate in dragon boating, offer wellness and education, and build a supportive community for all those affected by breast cancer.

“Wear it with pride. Stand with the Dragons.”

Our community support

The initiative forms part of Kukri Ireland’s wider strategy to support meaningful community projects and further expand its footprint across a more diverse range of sports, including recent moves into volleyball and pickleball.

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland, added, “We’re incredibly proud to support the Lagan Dragons, not only as athletes, but as advocates, survivors and difference makers.

“This partnership reflects our ongoing commitment to community-focused initiatives and marks another step in our mission to support and celebrate sport in all its forms across the country.”

This partnership is more than just sport—it’s about strength, community, and standing together in the face of adversity. By wearing the Lagan Dragons supporters’ t-shirt, you’re not only backing a team—you’re championing a cause.

How you can support the Lagan Dragons

Lagan Dragons are heading to Berlin next to take part in the CityCup from 5^th to 6^th July, at the regatta course in Berlin-Grünau.

The supporters’ t-shirt now, available until 6^th July only. Shop now.

Find out more about Lagan Dragons and their mission.

Curious how Kukri can empower your team? Get in touch today.

30/05/202528/05/2025

Kukri Sports is thrilled to welcome one of Britain’s most decorated para-athletes, Hannah Cockroft, as its newest brand ambassador, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to inclusivity, performance and empowering athletes at every level.

A Shared Vision of Inclusion and Excellence

A nine-time Paralympic champion, multiple world-record holder and trailblazer in para-sport, Hannah has been a dominant force in wheelchair racing since making her debut for Great Britain at the age of 18.

Her career has long been connected to the national athletics system in the UK, including events supported by England Athletics and British Athletics. Through domestic competitions, talent pathways and advocacy for para-athletes, Hannah has been a visible and vocal figure across the athletics landscape.

As the official kit provider for England Athletics, Kukri has championed athletes like Hannah from grassroots through to elite level. This includes proud support for the Youth Talent Programme, which plays a vital role in developing young athletes, both able-bodied and para, as part of the England Athletics talent pathway.

This shared, inclusive approach reflects Kukri’s belief in championing potential across all disciplines, ensuring the next generation of stars has access to opportunity, resources and representation to help fulfil their potential.

“The First Kit Provider to Join My Team in 17 Years”

“Having the opportunity to be an ambassador for Kukri Sports is incredible – they’re the first kit provider to join my team in 17 years,” Hannah said.

“It means so much to me that they’re supporting a para-athlete, a group who are so often overlooked.

“I find it amazing that Kukri supports athletes at all levels, because the grassroots element is so often ignored, so to be able to work with a brand who have the same values as me makes me feel proud.

“I’m excited to work on developing the perfect kit for me, to gain new experiences, and to be part of something bigger than just sport.”

The announcement follows Kukri’s partnership extension with Team England, where they will continue as the official kit supplier through to the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Scotland.

A Legacy of Dominance on the Global Stage

Nicknamed ‘Hurricane Hannah’ for her explosive power on the track, Hannah has delivered landmark moments throughout her illustrious career. She made her paralympic debut at the London 2012 Olympic Games, capturing gold in the T34 100m and 200m events, while setting two new paralympic records in the process.

Her dominance continued with triple gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics and double gold in the 2024 Paralympic Games, bringing her paralympic gold medal tally to nine. She is also the most decorated British athlete in World Championship history, with 16 titles to her name.

Currently, she holds the T34 world records for 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m—an unprecedented feat. In 2022, Hannah was appointed OBE in the King’s New Year Honours followed by CBE in last year’s New Year Honours list, recognising not only her sporting excellence but her tireless advocacy for inclusion and representation in sport.

She was also named British Sportswoman of the Year by the Sports Journalists’ Association in 2017, the first para-athlete to ever receive the award in its 57-year history.

Cockroft has been a proud member of Team England, famously leading a 1-2-3 finish in the T34 100m at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. Kukri’s ongoing partnership with Team England ensures elite athletes like Hannah are equipped to perform at their best on the global stage.

On Track For 2025

Hannah’s 2025 season is already off to a promising start. She recently kicked things off with a 10-day training camp in Switzerland, where she also opened her competitive season.

“I’m currently in Switzerland, where I’ve been on a 10-day training camp before my season opener last weekend,” she shared. “Although there were no records broken, I set World Lead times in the 1000m, 400m and 800m events, so it’s a good place to start.”

With two more meets to go before returning to the UK next week, Hannah has had a busy few days and is laying strong foundations for what promises to be another standout year.

New Goals, Same Drive

Looking ahead, Cockroft is focused on defending her world titles at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi this September and is already laying the groundwork for a historic fifth Paralympic Games appearance at Los Angeles 2028.

“I still have things I want to achieve”, she said.

“I’d love to hold the Paralympic, World, European and Commonwealth titles all at once, and I really believe I can be the first T34 woman to break 16 seconds in the 100m event. “

Empowering the Next Generation

Hannah’s passion for her sports extends well beyond competition. A champion for inclusion and accessibility, she regularly runs ‘come and try’ days for aspiring athletes, holds coaching qualifications, and uses her platform to advocate for better visibility and resources for para-sport.

“When I was growing up, it was so hard to even find out how to get involved in para-sport,” she explained.

“That’s why I try to give back, to make it easier for the next generation to discover what’s possible.

“Of course, we’re still lagging behind in many areas, from sponsorship and funding to spectator sport outside of Paralympic years, but I think opportunity has grown and that’s the most important place to start, as more champions coming through will hopefully then bring the rest with it.”

From the training track to the world’s biggest stage, having the right kit is crucial, and Hannah knows how vital those details are.

“In wheelchair racing, we put so much effort into aerodynamics and speed, so I like my kit to be close fitting, comfortable and doesn’t distract me at the start of a race.”

Standing Together for a More Inclusive Future

As Kukri continues to strengthen its commitment to inclusive sport, the partnership with Hannah marks another significant step forward in championing para-athletes.

“We’re incredibly proud to welcome Hannah to the Kukri family,” said Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

“She’s not only one of Britain’s most successful athletes, but also a passionate advocate for inclusion and the growth of para-sport. Her values align perfectly with ours, and we’re excited to support her journey and work with her to achieve her mission.”

With shared values of performance, representation and opportunity at every level of sport, the partnership between Kukri Sports and Hannah Cockroft is set to empower the next generation of athletes, on and off the track.

As preparations begin for this year’s World Para Athletics Championships and beyond, Kukri is proud to stand alongside Hannah in her pursuit of even more excellence and in shaping a more inclusive future for sport.

Find out more about Team England

26/05/202523/05/2025

Kukri Sports is proud to announce its support for the ’26 Mountains to Mayo’ Challenge, a powerful initiative aiming to raise over £1 million for Cancer Fund for Children –  ensuring that no child in Ireland faces cancer alone.

A gruelling journey with a powerful purpose

The gruelling nine-day challenge, developed by Roger Johnston, will see a team of 26 business leaders from Ireland and the USA, including former Ulster Rugby player Declan Fitzpatrick, climb the highest point in every county across Ireland.

Starting with Errigal in Donegal on Saturday 7 June, the group will journey through Ulster, Connacht, Leinster and Munster, before finishing at Mweelrea in Mayo on Saturday 15 June.

Kukri’s support

As part of its ongoing commitment to support meaningful causes, Kukri is providing bespoke, high-performance training-wear including t-shirts and jackets to support the participants.

“I am truly excited and thankful for the partnership between our 26 Mountains to Mayo team and Kukri,” said challenge founder Roger Johnston.

“The t-shirts and jackets have really added to the shared identity of our team of 25 business leaders who are taking part in the challenge, and we will wear them proudly during our training and during the challenge.

“One of my key aims when setting up this challenge was to mobilise business across Northern Ireland to get behind the Cancer Fund for Children and their critical mission to ensure that no child in Ireland needs to go through the disease alone.

“Kukri have truly stepped up to this call, and for that we are very thankful.”

Neil Patterson, Kukri Sports Country Manager for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland, expressed his pride in supporting such a vital mission.

“At Kukri, we believe in the power of sport to unite, inspire, and drive meaningful change.

“We’re honoured to support this challenge with high-performance kit that reflects the team’s commitment and determination.

“This isn’t just a physical challenge – it’s a powerful statement of solidarity with children and families facing cancer. We’re proud to stand with Roger and his incredible team in support of this vital cause.”

Participants have already begun rigorous training for what promises to be a once in a lifetime experience.

A challenge that resonates with many

Wayne Pollock, one of the volunteers shared:

“The challenge to me is very personal. I lost my mum to breast cancer when I was 21 years of age.

“Having my own child after that, we have been involved with Cancer Fund for Children for some time now,” he said.

“It’s an outstanding challenge with an amazing team and support around us. It’s really extreme, but we’re determined to raise an incredible amount to make sure that no kid in Ireland has to face cancer alone.”

Fellow volunteer, Graeme Neil, added:

“Being involved in the challenge is probably one of the most important things I have done in my life.

“It’s very humbling and gratifying to know that we’re helping children not to face cancer alone and also help provide support to their families.

“Like everybody else, I’m really excited and nervous, but the motivation for me and the group will be the difference we can hopefully make to people’s lives.”

How you can support

The ‘26 Mountains to Mayo’ Challenge is more than just a physical feat – it’s a movement to ensure that no child in Ireland has to face cancer alone. Every step the team takes is in support of children and families who urgently need help and hope.

To learn more about the challenge, please visit: www.26m2m.com/home

Join Kukri and the 26M2M team in making a real difference – every donation, big or small, brings us one  step closer to the £1 million goal. CLICK HERE to donate.

18/05/202517/05/2025

In honour of Mental Health Awareness Week, Kukri Sports is proud to share powerful reflections from its partner athletes on the importance of mental well-being in sport.

From Olympians to grassroots leaders, these athletes open up about recovery, resilience and the reality of life beyond the pitch.

Piper Logan – UBC Women’s Rugby captain (Vancouver, North America)

Paris Olympic silver medallist Piper Logan, captain of Canada’s Women’s 7s team, is currently navigating the challenges of a cruciate ligament injury sustained at the Vancouver 7s.

“I felt like I was constantly falling behind while others kept improving. But over time, I learned to celebrate the little wins and remind myself that growth isn’t always visible.

“I found comfort in focusing on the things I could control like nutrition, habits and reconnecting with the life outside of sport. That helped me feel like myself again.”

Cork Constitution RFC, Men’s First Team (Ireland)

One anonymous first-team player reflects on the often-overlooked mental health challenges that come with playing at a high level.

“Mental health and rugby go hand in hand. Playing helps my well-being through the physical benefits and the social aspect.

“I try to deal with stress by being organised during the week, accepting that not every match goes your way and always having time to relax with the lads.”

Somerset CCC – Jack Leach, Charlie Dean & Alfie Ogborne

Mental health is a growing focus in cricket, a sport known for its long seasons, psychological demands and intense competition.

England internationals Jack Leach and Charlie Dean, as well as Alfie Ogborne reflect on how mindset, team culture and togetherness plays crucial roles in performance and personal well-being.

Alfie said, “You will always see players who are less talented than others do better, and that’s because of their mental approach and preparation.”

Charlie said, “There is always going to be performance pressure, but these days it’s great to see that we are more open about it as that’s how it should be.”

Jack said, “As teammates, we’re always looking out for each other. We have to remember that people go through different things and be there to support them.”

British Rowing – Matt Aldridge & Josh O’Brien

Olympic bronze medallist Matt Aldridge and Paralympic champion Josh O’Brien open up about how team support have shaped their mental resilience.

“The attitude towards mental health has changed quite drastically over the past few years. People are starting to talk about it more openly now, which is really good”, Matt said.

“Any high-pressure environment like rowing, you’re going to have bad days, and if you can share that with different people to pick you up, then that is brilliant.”

Josh added, “Before the Paralympics in Paris, I had a bad back injury. I wouldn’t have gotten through it without my teammates and coaches supporting me through it.”

Sion Bennett – Valley RFC (Asia)

Former Wales U20 and Sevens player Sion Bennett now captains Valley RFC in Hong Kong and leads conversations around mental health.

“Having gone through struggles in sport and life, I’ve seen the impact of community, resilience and simply moving your body,” he says.

After relocating from Wales, Sion leaned on sport to navigate change:

“Being part of a club like Valley helped me build a new support network. Moving overseas taught me more about who I am and helped build self-belief.”

“I strongly believe in creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable to share. You can’t force people to talk about their feelings, but you can make effort with them to talk about their life, their work, have a joke, even if that is a simple hand shake before training, and so when the moment arises that they need someone to talk to they feel like they have built bonds and there’s an environment that they feel like they can share.

As a brand committed to supporting athletes at every level of the game, Kukri stands with these athletes in challenging the stigma and calling for environments where honesty is strength and well-being is a priority.

If you need mental health support, reach out to your primary healthcare provider for guidance. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 or click here to view the full list.

23/04/2025

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