Category: News

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

16/12/202413/12/2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

09/12/2024

Kukri Sports proudly celebrates its partnership with Pickleball Ireland, whose national team achieved historic success at the inaugural European Pickleball Championships.

Competing against 23 nations in Southampton on November 23-24, Team Ireland’s remarkable performance secured their place among Europe’s top ten, cementing their growing prominence in the sport.

The players showcased their skill and determination throughout to finish among the top 10 nations and deservedly earn recognition on the international stage.

Impressive Performances on the Court

Team Ireland delivered standout results in both the 19+ and 50+ categories:

• (Men’s Doubles 19+) – Adrian and Sam secured impressive group-stage wins before a narrow defeat to Finland.

• (Mixed Doubles 19+) – Francie and Bobby showed their talent to reach the quarter-finals, pushing eventual champions England in a spirited match.
• (Women’s Doubles 19+) – Francie and Izzy earned strong group-stage results, narrowly missing out against Belgium and Estonia.
• (Men’s Doubles 50+) – Gareth and Gavin & Heidi and George (Mixed Doubles 50+) also reached the quarter-finals, delivering exceptional performances against strong opponents.

A Milestone for Irish Pickleball

The Championships marked a decade since the sport was introduced in Ireland. Today, over 60 locations across Ireland host pickleball players, with an estimated 2,000 participants enjoying the sport weekly.

“This is a very important step for Pickleball Ireland, said John Fitzpatrick, Chairman of Pickleball Ireland.

“It reflects the inclusive nature of the sport, with representatives of all ages proudly playing for Ireland.

“Our team represented the whole of Ireland with exceptional spirit and talent,” Fitzpatrick added. “To see players of all ages competing at the highest level is a proud moment for us and the development of the sport.”

Kukri Sports Drives Success

Kukri Sports were proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the team’s journey. As the official kit supplier for Pickleball Ireland, we provided the training wear for the players to compete in, as well as a newly designed shirt that will proudly worn by all players in future competitions.

“The sponsorship has been invaluable,” said Fitzpatrick. “Kukri’s commitment, from design stunning team kits to providing vital support, has made a significant impact.

“We’re thrilled to see our players and supporters wearing these shirts with pride.”

Commenting on the partnership, Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI and ROI, said “We were thrilled to support Pickleball Ireland in their incredible journey to the European Championships.

“Seeing the team train in the designs and compete on such a prestigious stage was fantastic to see, and we are committed to providing the highest-quality sportswear for their players to shine on the court in future competitions.”

As Team Ireland looks ahead, the momentum from the European Championships fuels their ambition.

With the continued support from Kukri and the passion of players nationwide, the future of pickleball in Ireland continues to shine bright.

Design your own sportswear

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22/11/202421/11/2024

Kukri Sports is proud to announce rising para-athlete Amy Thompson, the current UK number one F41 shot putter, has extended her partnership from England Athletics Youth Talent Programme to become a full brand ambassador.

Amy has had an incredible year, achieving a personal best of over 8 metres, winning the ambulant shot-put championship at the Senior Championships and making her debut appearance at this year’s Loughborough International.

“I’m beyond excited to continue my partnership with Kukri Sports,” Amy said.

“This past year has been a breakthrough for me, and the support I’ve received from Kukri has been a key part of that. It’s been a year full of great milestones, and I’m grateful to have Kukri by my side as I continue to push forward.”

Amy, who is currently studying Biomedical Science at Liverpool John Moores University, is a shining example of dedication and hard work, making her a great fir for the brand.

Reflecting on the Youth Talent Programme and her experience, Amy said, “The education from the programme was invaluable.

“It helped me understand the financial and logistical aspects of the sport and travelling to competitions. Little things like that really help you as a young athlete to develop and gain a broader knowledge of what is involved.”

Looking ahead to the future, Amy is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. “My goal for this year, with the support of the Paralympic Futures Programme, is to compete in more international competitions and continue to improve my training and overall performances,” she shared.

“Hopefully I can get to the U20 World Championships next year and showcase my talent on a bigger stage.”

Kukri Sports is proud to support Amy Thompson and is excited to welcome her as a full brand ambassador.

Keep an eye out for the announcement of our new Youth Talent Programme Ambassadors.

07/11/202406/11/2024

Months after their triumph, Cork Constitution’s seventh Energia All Ireland League (AIL) title still resonates deeply within the club’s storied history.

As an official partner of Kukri Sports, alongside many other ruby clubs in Ireland, the club has benefitted from high-quality support.

Winning the title at the Aviva Stadium in a dramatic showdown against Terenure College – despite being reduced to 14 men just 19 minutes into the game, highlighted their grit, determination and spirit of the squad.

The triumph capped a stellar season that also saw the J1 team win the Charity Cup and retain the Munster Senior Clubs Division 1 league, with a last-minute try securing the title.

For players, coaches and supporters, this success reaffirmed Cork Con’s legacy as one of Ireland’s most successful rugby institutions.

Reflecting on a memorable campaign, team captain David Hyland shared. “It’s an honour. Away wins against Terenure and Lansdowne gave us a lot of momentum during the season and helped us to secure a home semi-final.”

Head Coach Johnny Holland also expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, describing it as ‘one of the most satisfying moments in my coaching career’, and adding, “Watching our players celebrating and enjoying themselves makes the job more worthwhile.”

“I’m confident that this group is capable of winning it again, but there’s a lot of quality in the league, and every team is expecting to win each week, which makes it a unique challenge.”

After four games, Cork Con sit in seventh place in the AIL with the season still young, and they’re determined to push toward the play-offs.

“Our goal as a team is to win the AIL, Munster Seconds League, Charity Cup for a second year in a row and the Munster Junior Cup,” Hyland said.

“We are confident we can achieve these goals, but remain very aware that it will take an even higher level of effort and commitment.”

A crucial part of this pursuit has been Kukri Sports’ support, proudly supporting their performances with high-quality sportswear.

“The Kukri gear has been excellent this year, all of our performance and match day needs have been looked after with kit that is comfortable and makes us feel proud when stepping out onto the pitch.”

Head Coach Holland echoed this sentiment. “The gear looks great and ensures that we’re together as a group when we’re going to and from matches especially.”

Kukri Sports’ NI and ROI Country Manager, Neil Patterson, also expressed pride in the club’s achievements. “We’re incredibly proud of Cork Constitution’s hard work to win their seventh AIL title, as well as their other team’s success.

“We are dedicated to providing the highest quality sportswear to support them on and off the pitch and are excited to be part of their success.”

With Kukri’s ongoing support, Cork Constitution is prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead, driven by a hunger for continued success. This season promises excitement as Cork Con pushes forward – equipped, focused, and united in their pursuit of another historic season.

Want to find out how we can inspire your rugby team to success?

01/11/202431/10/2024

As Black History Month concludes, Kukri Sports proudly spotlights Jane, a standout student-athlete from Rugby School who is making waves in netball with her inspiring journey and bold aspirations.

From Local Talent to International Hopes

For Jane, netball has been a transformative journey that began with exposure to various sports in her hometown. “Sport has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’d started with gymnastics before I’d even begun school,” Jane reflects.

As she grew older, Jane experimented with different sports, but it was in primary school that a netball coach recognised her potential and encouraged her to join a local club.

“My coach really pushed me to keep going. I started trials for county-level competitions and my first franchise, Loughborough Lightning. I’ve never looked back.”

Now a defender for Birmingham Panthers in their U19s long squad, Jane’s journey from early practice to competitive netball has been one of hard work and triumph. “Netball has always been my happy place. There’s nothing like defending – it’s such a thrill to stop a play and protect my team’s side of the court,” she says.

Aiming For the Future: England U17 Trials and International Ambitions

One of Jane’s proudest moments came this year, when she was selected for the England Netball U17 trials and part of their Europe netball squad. “Getting to that level was such an honour. It felt like all the years of training were finally paying off,” she shares.

With her sights set on the 2032 Olympics in Australia, where netball is expected to debut, Jane dreams of representing her country on the world’s biggest stage and aspires to join Australia’s renowned Suncorp League.

“Playing in the Suncorp League would be amazing. Competing in a different league would challenge me and help me grow as a player. In the short term, Jane is aiming to join a Super League team and become part of the England Future Roses squad.

Honouring Black History Month: Celebrating a Legacy of Strength

For Jane, Black History Month is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of those who have paved the way. “It’s about celebrating amazing Black people who faced tremendous challenges but still accomplished so much,” she explains.

“Their resilience inspires me, and I hope my story can encourage others to keep pushing forward.”

Kukri Sports’ Commitment to Supporting Young Athletes and Future Champions

Kukri Sports is proud to champion young athletes like Jane, providing high-quality sportswear and resources through partnerships with Rugby School and other leading educational institutions.

Our commitment helps students pursue their sports dreams and reach their full potential, from grassroots to global competitions.

31/10/202431/10/2024

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

Early Beginnings

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

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

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

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

Achievements on the International Stage

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

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

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

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

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future in Gymnastics

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

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

The Importance of Black History Month

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

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

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

29/10/202428/10/2024

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

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

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

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

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

Setting Sights on LA28 and Beyond

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

Celebrating Black History Month and Making an Impact

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

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

22/10/202421/10/2024

Kukri Sports is making waves in the world of hockey, establishing itself as a leading provider of high-quality performance sportswear designed to meet the unique demands of the sport.

With a dedication to quality and innovation, Kukri is becoming the go-to choice for hockey teams and athletes worldwide, helping to enhance their performance on and off the field.

Building a global Hockey community

Kukri’s influence in the hockey community continues to expand, forging strong connections with grassroots clubs and educational institutions around the world.

Partnerships with established grassroots clubs like Pegasus Hockey Club, Provincial Sporting Bodies such as Field Hockey BC, and university teams like Loughborough University and Melbourne University Hockey Club highlight our ability to deliver bespoke sportswear solutions tailored to each team’s specific needs.

Find out more about our partners

A standout example of Kukri’s commitment to the sport is its long-standing partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, a grassroots team based in Northern Ireland.

As their teamwear supplier for over 20 years, Kukri has played a fundamental role in their success, providing over 5,000 custom-designed kits crafted for peak performance and inspiring players to reach their full potential.

Read more about the partnership.

Expanding Hockey’s reach in Australia & beyond

Kukri has established a strong presence in Australia, a country where hockey is deeply ingrained in the sporting culture.

The brand proudly partners with numerous organisations across the continent, including Cairns Hockey Association, Melbourne High School Old Boys Hockey Club, La Trobe University Hockey Club, Melbourne University Hockey Club and Kedron Wavell Hockey club.

Across the Pacific Ocean, Kukri continues to develop its presence in North America, with partners such as Vancouver Hawks Field Hockey Club and Field Hockey BC.

Fostering grassroots development

In addition to its partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, Kukri’s strategy is deeply rooted in a commitment to grassroots development.

By supplying schools, clubs and universities with innovative sportswear, Kukri nurtures the next generation of players. The company collaborates with educational institutions including; Nottingham Trent University, Rugby School and Royal School Armagh, with the latter being crowned last season’s Kate Russell All-Ireland Senior Schoolgirls’ title to cap off a dream season.

Dedication to quality & innovation

Kukri’s approach to hockey is grounded in a pursuit of quality and innovation. Each piece of sportswear is meticulously designed to withstand the rigors of the game, utilising advanced materials that enhance comfort, durability and performance.

Kukri offers a wide range of customizable kits that blend design with functionality, ensuring players can perform confidently at every level.

Design your custom Hockey kit

Elevate your team’s performance with Kukri’s bespoke hockey kits, choose from hundreds of designs and get started today.

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