Category: News

08/03/202507/03/2025

In honour of International Women’s Day, Kukri Sports is proud to honour the strength, resilience and determination of female athletes from a variety of sports.

This year, we highlight the inspiring journeys of women who have broken barriers and continue to lead the way for future generations.

Andrea Wing-Yan Leung

Women’s rugby player, Valley RFC Women’s team

Andrea Wing-Yan Leung, a dedicated rugby player for Valley RFC, reflects on her journey in the sport, from playing basketball as a teenager to becoming a Premiership-level winning athlete and a role model for young women in the sport.

“It means honour, cherishment and humility to me to represent my team,” she says.

“I am forever thankful to be able to play sport as a female. However, there are still women out there who may not have a chance to play sports or receive an education.

“For 20 years, my parent’s didn’t support me playing rugby – they saw it as a ‘men’s sport’. But I never gave up. Last season, my dad and brother finally came to watch me play in the Grand Championship final. We won, and I got to show them the trophy.”

Ellie Stevens

North America Running Ambassador

Ellie Stevens, a trailblazer in long-distance running, celebrates the visibility and opportunities that women in endurance sports have gained over recent years.

“International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go in empowering women in sports,” she states.

Despite overcoming barriers such as facing chronic fatigue throughout her career, Ellie has proved that resilience is key. “Your struggles do not define you – your resilience does. No setback is permanent. Believe in yourself, be patient and take it one step at a time.”

Claire Dowey

NI Volleyball Women’s team player

For Claire Dowey, a veteran volleyball player and captain of Northern Ireland’s women’s team, International Women’s Day is about celebrating the growing participation of women in sport.

Claire’s experience as a mother and high-level athlete has been a balancing act, but she finds strength in showing her son the value of hard work.

“I want them to see that you can have the lows that sport sometimes brings and still bounce back. You can have your family and still play on,” Claire says.

“I truly believe I became a better player, especially mentally, after becoming a mum.“

Ahead of competing in the St. Patrick’s Challenge on 15 March, Claire was pleased to see how much the sport has grown. “It has been exciting to see the number of girls now playing volleyball increase over the years.

“We are gradually securing more funding which is what is going to really support our female athletes to enable them to have access to great training, high-quality kit and elite programmes.”

Izzy Songhurst

Trampoline Gymnast, British Gymnastics

Izzy Songhurst, and two-time Ladies British champion who made her Olympic debut at Paris 2024, shares her thoughts on overcoming body stereotypes and embracing her strength as a gymnast.

“I have overcome it by doing a lot of work on my psychology, being confident in my body’s ability to execute what I’m asking it to do which has helped me a lot in my performance,” she explains.

“For me, it was about finding a way and trying to be really confident in myself and to remember that it is always enough.”

Chloe Andrews

Rugby player, Dubai College Women’s team

As a young female rugby player, Chloe Andrews is passionate about making the sport more inclusive for girls of all ages.

“Rugby at first can seem very intimidating, but it’s a game of resilience, teamwork and confidence,” she shares.

“As a young woman, I’ve learned that sport is not just physical strength, but mental strength and the ability to lead.

“I feel incredibly proud to be part of the newly growing women’s rugby community. It motivates me to be a role model for younger girls, showing them that rugby and any sport in general can be played by everyone.”

Kukri’s Commitment to Women in Sport

At Kukri, we are proud to support women in sport around the world, empowering them to break barriers and unlock their full potential.

By providing high-performance kit and additional off-field support, we are dedicated to helping female athletes feel confident, embrace their strength, and pursue their dreams.

Together, we celebrate women’s achievements and strive to ensure there are no limits to greatness.

24/02/202520/02/2025

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

21/02/202518/02/2025

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.

30/01/202529/01/2025

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

27/01/202523/01/2025

Leading athletes across the UK are embracing the challenge of training in colder, darker conditions.

Kukri Sports understands these demands and is committed to fuelling athletes with performance-driven sportswear designed to keep them focused and prepared, no matter the weather.

Whether you are just starting out on your fitness journey or need more motivation during this time of year, we have got you covered.

Top Tips for Winter Training

To help you stay motivated and perform at your best this winter, here are some top tips for tackling this season’s challenges:

• Layer-up appropriately: Kukri’s lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics keep athletes warm without restricting movement. Our products will help to regulate your body temperature without compromising performance.
• Stay consistent: Maintaining a regular routine, even in the cold, helps athletes stay on track and build resilience.
• Train with purpose: Setting clear goals of what you want to achieve and focusing on specific improvements makes every session meaningful.
• Train with others: Training with teammates is a powerful way to stay motivated and get the most out of a session.
• Celebrate your efforts: Winter training can be tough, but every session brings you closer to your goal. Acknowledge your progress and remember that consistency beats perfection.

Insight from Partner Athletes

We have teamed up with some partner athletes to share their insights on winter training and how they adapt to challenging conditions.

England Lacrosse senior women’s team player, Araminta Loxton-Bernard, highlights the importance of safety and preparation.

“During sessions where it’s cold and dark, having the knowledge that I am visible to cars and bikes, can hear what’s going on around me and don’t have any chance of slipping allows me to train to the fullest and accelerate toward my goals.”

“Post training it is vital to layer back up quickly to keep yourself warm, and Kukri’s endless supply of different warmer options is so important. The tactical jacket or gilet really help my body to regulate its temperature and prevent rapid heat loss.”

England Lacrosse senior men’s team player, Tom Bracegirdle, said “It’s important to take a little extra time to prepare. Warming up thoroughly with dynamic stretching and gradually increasing intensity will help get the blood flowing and prevent injuries.

“Kukri provides a great mix of training gear that allows you to layer up effectively—better to have too many layers and take one off than not enough and feel the cold!“

Chris Hollinshead, an England Athletics level 4 UKA Coach with over 25 years of coaching experience, said “Running in the winter offers a different experience, sometimes enjoyable and other times not so, and the key is to be prepared for that environment.”

“My top tip is to dress appropriately. Also be prepared to adapt the session. This could mean reducing the length of the run when the environmental conditions dictate.”

Barney Bithell, senior men’s hockey player at Loughborough University, adds, “Embracing a structured routine and breaking down goals into smaller milestones helps keep me focused and performing at my best when it’s cold.”

“I find the Kukri winter kit great for training. It keeps me warm and dry and allows me to focus on my performance without being mentally distracted.”

Kukri Sportswear: Designed to Perform

Kukri’s training and leisurewear range is designed to empower athletes in any condition, offering insulating layers, breathable fabrics, and durable designs for peak performance. Explore the full range today and elevate your training this winter.

16/01/202513/01/2025

Kukri Sports is at the forefront of performance-driven fabrics, designed to empower athletes from grassroots to elite level.

In the following article, learn about the innovative materials used in Kukri’s range of sportswear, including moisture-wicking, breathable and sustainable fabrics, and how they are empowering athletes at all levels to perform at their best.

The Power of Performance Fabrics

At the heart of Kukri’s sportswear innovation are its high-performance fabrics, carefully selected to meet the varying demands of athletics, netball, rugby and many other sports.

– Moisture-wicking Technology:

Fabrics like Ascend, S-Spire, and Kohilo absorb moisture from the body, keeping athletes dry and comfortable in high-intensity sports such as netball and rugby.

– Breathability & Comfort:

Materials such as Power Knit and Blitz enhance breathability and regulate body temperature, helping athletes stay cool and comfortable in endurance sports like athletics.

– Durability & Strength:

Built to withstand contact sport like tough tackles in rugby and long endurance runs, fabrics like Blitz, Kohilo, and Tri-Stretch offer unmatched durability, ensuring athletes can push their limits in the most demanding conditions.

– Sustainability

Kukri is committed to reducing environmental impact with materials like Ri-Sist, crafted from recycled polyester to provide sustainable performance without compromise.

Empowering Teams Worldwide

Kukri’s innovative sportswear, trusted by teams like British Gymnastics, Commonwealth Sport Canada, England Athletics, and Somerset County Cricket Club, has empowered athletes worldwide. Notable examples include Loughborough Lightning Netball team, who dominated the Netball Super League to defend their title with dresses that are engineered for performance and comfort.

Similarly, Somerset County Cricket Club, with the support of Kukri, were crowned 2023 Vitality Blast champions, showcasing the strength and durability of fabrics that keep elite athletes at the top of their game.

Jason Kerr, Head Coach at Somerset County Cricket Club, said, “We have been working with Kukri for a number of years and have created an outstanding relationship. They are receptive to ideas and feedback, producing kit that not only looks good but is also comfortable to play and train in. They genuinely consider the needs of the players both on and off the pitch.”

Our Latest Product Developments

As part of its commitment to enhancing performance and meeting the ever-changing demands of sport, Kukri continues to evolve its product line.

Recent updates include:

• A new rowing range – designed for enhanced flexibility and durability to support athletes on the water. Includes a wide range of products, including a unisex rowing suit with a four-way stretch, ergonomically designed with bonded seams to avoid rubbing and tech tops using lightweight recycled polyester.
• Tournament rugby short – Designed with ripstop and tri-stretch fabrics for unmatched strength and comfort during high-intensity play.
• Women’s impact leggings – New and updated leggings that combine a superior stretch with a sleek design, offering female athletes a fit suitable to their needs.

Sophie Birtwell, Product Developer at Kukri Sports, added, “By using cutting-edge fabric technologies and listening closely to athlete feedback, we ensure every garment meets the challenges of the game head-on. Whether it’s moisture-wicking jerseys for rugby or stretch fabrics for netball dresses, we’re dedicated to helping athletes feel confident, comfortable, and ready to perform at their best.”

Built for Every Athlete

Whether you’re a professional athlete or just starting your sporting journey, Kukri has the right sportswear to elevate your performance.

Contact us today and find out how our products can help you achieve your goals.

14/01/202514/01/2025

Kukri Sports has firmly established itself as a leader in Northern Irish netball, now proudly partnered with 17 out of 31 registered clubs in Northern Ireland, driving the success and growth of the sport across the region.

Kukri’s influence in Northern Irish netball goes beyond supplying training and matchday kits. We are a trusted partner to clubs ranging from grassroots to elite level, as well as various schools and universities in the region, offering comprehensive support to ensure teams excel on and off the court.

Comprehensive support for clubs at every level

At Kukri, we understand that every club has its own identity, which is why we offer fully customisable kits tailored to each team’s needs. From unique designs that represent the spirit of each club, to the latest fabric technology for elite performance, we ensure that all club’s athletes feel both confident and supported on and off the court.

This is highlighted through our long-term partnership with Netball Northern Ireland, where Kukri are the official kit supplier for representative teams and has recently become the title partner for the Netball NI Premier League.

A growing presence across Ireland

Our growing presence in Northern Ireland highlights our commitment to supporting athletes at all levels, with strong partnerships in netball, volleyball, hockey, and rugby.

Our Northern Irish netball partners include:

Fuelling partner growth and success

Through our partnerships, local clubs in Northern Ireland have seen their teams grow and achieve success on and off the court. An example of this is Larne Netball Club, who have recently launched a second’s team and started a junior section that enables more players to participate.

“We’re not just about providing kit – we’re about supporting netball clubs every step of the way, said Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI and ROI. “With our growing presence across Northern Ireland, our partnerships are built on understanding the unique needs of each club and the demands of the game.

“We’re committed to ensuring that clubs at all levels have the tools and support they need to focus on what matters most: performing at their best on the court and driving the continued growth of netball across the region.”

Speaking on the partnership, Betty Wilson, club coach at Larne Netball Club, said “Kukri’s support has been invaluable, from providing samples, to updates and solutions to any issues. The quality and service have been exceptional.”

“Working with Kukri on our club dresses and club shop is always a smooth and enjoyable process,” said Fionnuala Toner of Belfast Ladies Netball Club, who have been crowned Premier League champions for the last two consecutive seasons.

“The design team are a huge help in making the process as efficient and seamless as possible, and the quality of the dresses are always great.”

Kukri Sports Netball Ambassador

Kukri have also recently welcomed Netball Northern Ireland star Lauren Walshe as their new netball ambassador.

Lauren, who becomes Kukri’s first ambassador in the region, highlights the brand’s commitment to supporting athletes on and off the court.

Get in touch

Are you looking to design your own netball kit? Get in touch.

20/12/2024

2024 has been a landmark year for rising boxing star Kieran Molloy, marked by thrilling victories and his continued rise in the boxing world.

The Irish-born boxer and Kukri Sports ambassador capped off the year in style, extending his undefeated professional record to a flawless ten wins from as many fights.

His latest triumph marked his third victory this year, following a commanding performance against Matthew King in June and a hard-fought win over Sergio Garcia in April.

Reflecting on his milestone, Molloy commented:

“My main aim is to win however it comes, but I’ve been performing well, adjusting to each style that I’m faced with.

“It’s all about stepping up the opposition and chasing titles.”

A Year of Growth & Determination

Molloy’s path to this record hasn’t been without challenges. This year, he made the bold decision to switch gyms and environment, a move that proved instrumental in elevating his fight style and approach.

“I have adjusted to the new training environment quite well. I’ve been boxing since I was five years old, so I’ve had a lot of different coaches over the years, but I’m training alongside people who are on exciting journeys as well.”

When asked what has fuelled his success this year, Molloy explained:

“I think a lot of it is attention to detail and being obsessed with what you do.

“There is a structure and a plan behind everything we do, but a lot of it comes down to dedication and training. You have to show up every day, even when you don’t feel like it, always trying to improve yourself.”

Facing Challenges in the Ring

Among his standout moments this year, Molloy points to his April fight against Sergio Garcia as a defining test of his resilience.

“It was the first time in my professional career I’ve been dealt with a bit of adversity. I was on the canvas in the sixth round and answered some questions of myself.

“I learned a lot from that fight, but we’ve been there, we’ve dealt with it, and I know if it does happen again, that I have to come out of it.”

Support from Kukri Sports

The 26-year-old’s exciting journey has been supported in his partnership with Kukri, whose sportswear has played a vital role in his preparation and performance.

“It’s been brilliant having access to Kukri sportswear for training and fights. I’ve never been stuck for something to throw on, but not only that, it allows me to train full time as well.

“Their support has really helped me to fully focus on my career, and on fight nights, the team is always looking slick with the Kukri merchandise – it looks really nice too.”

Dreaming Big Ahead of 2025

Looking ahead, Molloy has ambitious plans for the coming year, setting his sights on international belts and climbing the global rankings.

“I’d like to fight in London, maybe St. Patrick’s weekend in March. We’re in talks with GBM to see if we can get that one over the line, which would be unreal.”

With his sights firmly set on a blockbuster 2025, Molloy is ready to make his mark on the world stage:

“We’re planning on a massive 2025, so it’s going to be by far the biggest year yet. We’re going to keep growing on that ladder and chase those titles—watch this space.”

17/12/202417/12/2024

Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce Northern Ireland Warriors goalkeeper, Lauren Walshe, as their newest brand ambassador.

Known for her athletic prowess, leadership and dedication to the sport, Lauren perfectly embodies the values of Kukri Sports: passion, resilience and commitment.

Having recently extended their partnership as official long-term kit supplier for Netball Northern Ireland, Kukri is committed to supporting netball, fostering growth and providing high-quality and performance-driven sportswear that empowers athletes to excel on and off the court at all levels.

“I am excited to be named as a brand ambassador for Kukri Sports,” Lauren shared.

“It is a brand I have worn for a while now; it has been our Netball Northern Ireland team and Belfast Ladies team sponsor for some years. It’s my favourite sports brand to wear on court and I am enthusiastic to get started and show this brand off.”

Lauren’s journey in netball has been nothing short of inspiring. Having represented Northern Ireland on international stages, including this year’s Celtic Cup, she has competed against world-class teams and developed lifelong friendships.

“Playing netball from a young age has shaped who I am today. It has provided me with confidence and built my self-esteem in so many ways.

“The girls I’ve met along the way are some of my best friends, and I’ll always be thankful for the sport that allowed me to meet these girls.”

Beyond her achievements on the court, Lauren was recently named second runner-up in the Miss Northern Ireland 2024 competition. Now a passionate teacher, she juggles teaching a primary two class, with coaching two netball teams and playing for her country.

“There is a lot of joy and happiness in knowing you are helping and inspiring young children,” Lauren said.

“I love my job, and fortunately it allows me to help shape the younger generation, which is something I have always wanted to do. I think my love for the sport and my job helps to balance and enjoy it.”

Lauren’s exciting new partnership with Kukri Sports marks an exciting new chapter in her mission to promote netball and empower young athletes.

“Being part of the Kukri team is a great opportunity for me. With my busy lifestyle, Kukri can provide suitable attire for playing, training, coaching and even teaching too.

“I’m most excited to see all the exciting drops for the season and promote them to everyone. I want to create awareness of netball through Kukri’s support, and encourage more women and girls to play sports.”

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland at Kukri Sports, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Lauren Walshe as a brand ambassador. Her passion for netball, combined with her dedication to inspiring the next generation, aligns perfectly with Kukri’s mission. We are excited to work alongside her to promote netball and encourage participation across all levels of the sport, as well as further highlight our long-standing partnership with Netball Northern Ireland.”

Kukri Sports is delighted to welcome Lauren Walshe and looks forward to working with her to drive awareness and participation in netball, while providing her with additional exposure to inspire the next generation.

Learn more about Netball Northern Ireland