Category: News

14/03/202412/03/2024

In the dynamic world of sports, psychology plays a pivotal role in shaping athletes’ performance and mindset. Understanding this fundamental connection, Kukri Sports recognises that sportswear isn’t just about style; it’s a strategic tool that empowers athletes to excel in their sport.

Partnering with prestigious institutions such as the Hong Kong Sevens, we provide elite sportswear that elevates performance and fosters team spirit.

Athletes are not just physical entities; their mental state significantly influences their performance. From motivation and application to resilience and determination, psychology underpins every aspect of athletic achievement.

Sportswear is more than just clothing; it’s a symbol of pride, togetherness and identity that each individual represents. The right sportswear provides athletes with comfort, enabling them to perform at their peak in their sport.

At Kukri, we meticulously integrate psychological principles into the design and production of our partner’s kits. Each garment is crafted with precision to enhance performance, boost confidence and enhance team unity, ensuring that athletes feel empowered both mentally and physically when stepping out onto the pitch.

Our latest design for Loughborough Lightning Netball team’s new dress incorporates a sense of pride, championing their 2023 Netball Super League triumph by adding an additional lightning bolt which represents how many titles they have won to date.

This design fills them with pride, celebrating their hard-won achievements. It reminds them of the journey they’ve taken, with its highs and lows, to reach greatness.

“Kukri is a fantastic brand that consistently plays a huge part in our performances each season”, added Victoria Burgess, Head Coach at Loughborough Lightning Netball Team. “The pride the athletes feel when putting on the Lightning dress is inspiring, and their focus on producing the best apparel for our athletes is vital, the design and comfort of the dresses plays a critical part in us allowing to produce consistent performances.

Through our ongoing exploration of sports psychology, Kukri remains committed to empowering athletes to conquer challenges and achieve greatness.

Ready to unlock your full potential? Join the ranks of athletes who trust us to elevate their performance. Contact us today to discover how our sportswear can fuel your success.

08/03/202407/03/2024

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Kukri Sports reaffirms its commitment to empowering and supporting women in sports.

With a proud history of supporting female athletes across multiple sports for 25 years, Kukri recognises the vital role women play in driving innovation, leadership and excellence in the sporting world.

International Women’s Day serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made towards gender equality. Kukri recognises the importance of creating a level playing field for women in sport, with the hope that creating innovative designs will inspire the next generation of female athletes.

In line with its commitment to women in sport, Kukri has undertaken various initiatives to support and empower female athletes, including:

Sponsorship & Partnership:

As a leading sportswear supplier, Kukri continues to extend its reach across multiple sports, from England Lacrosse to UBC Women’s Rugby team based in Vancouver, Canada.

Kukri is also extending its offer beyond supply elite sportswear, helping to provide support for athletes in their wider development. This is shown through our long-standing partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club, one of the most successful clubs in the history of Irish Hockey.

In our partnership with the all-Women’s club, over 5,000 kits have been meticulously crafted for peak performance and have inspired countless players, some of which have gone on to triumph at international level.

Read more about the partnership.

Customised Sportswear:

From elite athletes to grassroots, Kukri ensures that women have access to sportswear that enhances their performance and confidence on and off the field.

Every kit has a story, from Rugby School’s interconnected jigsaw pieces forming a complete individual wearing the kit, to featuring all affiliated clubs with the Yorkshire Cricket Board that have a women’s and/or girls’ section on Northern Diamonds’ T20 Vitality Blast shirt design.

Scholarship Fund Contributions:

Kukri has also invested in scholarship funds for several of its partner universities, helping students to pursue and achieve their performance related goals in their selected sports.

At Worcester University, over 61 students are benefitting from the scholarship, including second year Sport and Exercise Student, Niamh Williams, who has gone on to represent England U20’s rugby team.

Supporting Athletes’ Performance:

Kukri is also involved in various initiatives with partners to support athletes’ performance, such as providing philanthropic funding for Loughborough University to support their joint study with West Ham United women’s team.

This three-year study aims to make a tangible contribution to women’s sport by investigating the performance characteristics of female footballers from youth age to first-team level.

Read more about the groundbreaking study here.

“We’re all incredibly proud of the unique sporting ecosystem at Loughborough University that undoubtedly contributes to women’s sport“, said Richard Wheater, Director of Sport at Loughborough University.

“Our partnership with Kurki Sports plays a key role in this vision and we’re thrilled to be working collaboratively as women’s sport continues to flourish.”

“At Kukri, we firmly believe that every athlete, regardless of gender, deserves equal opportunities to succeed. We are fully committed to not just supplying elite kit across multiple sports, but also offering support through other empowering initiatives that will enable women to thrive and showcase their talents.” – Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

Kukri reaffirms its commitment to empowering women in sport and driving positive change within the sporting landscape. By consistently advocating and offering our support, our commitment persists in shaping a future where women enjoy equal opportunities to excel in their chosen sport.

 For more information on how we can help you, get in touch.

29/02/202426/02/2024

Kukri Sports have been the official kit and merchandise supplier for Pegasus Hockey Club for 20 years, providing custom-designed uniforms, training wear and other essentials tailored to the specific needs of the clubs’ players, coaches and management.

For two-decades, over 5,000 kits have been meticulously crafted for peak performance and have inspired countless players on the pitch, some of which have gone on to triumph at international level. These kits have witnessed over 500 matches across various age levels, facilitating the performance of several teams from the first senior team to the juniors’ team.

As a proud partner, Kukri works closely with Pegasus Hockey Club to ensure that their sportswear meet the highest standards of quality and durability, enabling the players to excel on the pitch.

Developing international stars

Pegasus Hockey Club boasts a rich history as one of Northern Ireland’s most successful hockey clubs, consistently achieving success both domestically and internationally. With an impressive track record including multiple Irish Senior Cup and Irish Senior League victories, as well as triumphs in the EuroHockey Club Trophy, Pegasus Hockey Club stands as a symbol of excellence in the sport.

The club’s success extends beyond the field, with numerous players earning accolades at both national and international levels.

Among these players is Shirley McCay, Ireland’s most capped former international hockey player who represented her country at the Tokyo Olympics.

McCay, who recently received her MBE for her contributions to the sport, emphasised the pivotal role Kukri has played in the club’s journey.

“Our kit has been a massive part of our journey, the club itself is steeped in success and has had so much glory over the last two decades, and part of that has been down to how our kit looks and the comfort we get from it when playing which comes in tandem.

“The 20-year partnership with Kukri has been pretty special and long may it continue.”

Also commenting on the partnership, Michelle Rainey, Chair Person at Pegasus Hockey Club, said “It’s created a brand for the club. The kit identifies everybody and allows us all to feel aligned and connected, from the juniors all the way up to the 1s. The distinctive red kit is what we use in our narrative for team talks on game days, so it helps to bring that inclusion into things which is really important.

Commenting on the partnership, Colin Roden, Northern Ireland Sales Manager at Kukri Sports said “We are very proud to celebrate two decades of partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club. This milestone is a testament to our shared values of excellence, innovation and commitment to the sport of hockey.

“It’s crucial for us to nurture the strong connections we’ve cultivated over the last two decades. Our commitment lies in maintaining a local presence, enabling us to swiftly attend meetings and readily offer samples, further solidifying our bond with partners and clients alike.”

More than a sportswear provider

Kukri remains dedicated to providing the highest quality sportswear for Pegasus Hockey Club, ensuring designs enhance the team’s unique identity and traditions.

The two organisations will continue to strive in driving innovation, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring the next generation of hockey players.

Find out more about our partners.

About Pegasus Hockey Club

Established in 1961, Pegasus Hockey Club has remained a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s hockey community, offering players of all ages and abilities the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Find out more about Pegasus Hockey Club.

21/02/202420/02/2024

In the heart of Ireland’s vibrant sports culture, Kukri Sports stands as more than a sportswear provider; committed to elevating the game from grassroots to elite level by bringing athletes together and creating lifelong memories on and off the field. It’s this passion that fuels our dedication to supporting Irish sports at every level, from grassroots to national competitors.

At Kukri, our commitment extends across multiple sectors in Ireland, from schools and universities to grass roots, professional clubs and National Governing Bodies. The passion of Rugby, finesse of Netball and grace of Hockey resonate with us, driving our commitment to support these sports at every level.

Education plays a vital role in nurturing future athletes, and we provide elite sportswear and equipment to schools and colleges, enabling young talents to thrive and reach their full potential. Among these schools is Blackrock College, one of Kukri’s long-standing partners, who have woven their legacy into the fabric of the nation’s Rugby pride, as well as our other partner schools such as Bandon Grammar, St. Gerards, Alexandra College, Royal Belfast Academical Institution, Royal School Amargh and Wallace High School.

Find out more about Blackrock College.

With a focus on grassroots development, Kukri Sports actively collaborates with organisations, clubs, and teams to create opportunities for aspiring players. By offering custom-made kits, we aim to empower grassroots initiatives and strengthen the foundation of Irish sports.

In addition to our support at grass roots level, Kukri is also proud to be associated with esteemed professional partners in Ireland. Notably, our partnerships with Netball Northern Ireland, Pegasus Hockey Club and Ulster Rugby demonstrate our shared passion for these sports, further solidifying our commitment to the Irish sporting landscape.

Click here to find out more about our partners.

“At Kukri, we understand the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines Irish sports. Our commitment is to offer cutting-edge sportswear that not only meets the high performing standards of athletes at all levels, but also resonates with the rich sporting heritage in Ireland.

“We’re excited to continue to contribute to the success stories of athletes across various sports and play our part in elevating the standard of sports in Ireland.” – Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland & Republic of Ireland, Kukri Sports.

With our deep understanding of the unique requirements of each sport, we strive to provide tailored solutions that enhance your performance and comfort.

Whether you’re at the grassroots level, representing an educational institution, or part of a professional club, Kukri is here to enhance your sporting experience and help you reach your sporting goals.

For more information on how we can support your journey, get in touch.

06/02/202425/01/2024

As the upcoming Netball Super League season approaches, Kukri Sports recently caught up with Loughborough Lightning’s star goal shooter Mary Cholhok Nuba and Head Coach Victoria Burgess to discuss their goals for the new season and reflections on their victorious season in 2023.

Loughborough Lightning begin their campaign against Surrey Storm on 17 February, with their new dresses featuring an additional lightning bolt above the logo, representing the number of Netball Super League titles they have won to date.

Take a look at the reveal of their new home dress.

Head Coach Victoria Burgess admitted she is raring to go ahead of the new season. “We are looking forward to defending our title, making history winning the title back-to-back.”

After a pulsating season, Loughborough Lightning were crowned 2023 Netball Super League champions for the second time after their 57-48 win over London Pulse.

Reflecting on the historic win, Mary Cholhok, who finished as the Netball Super League’s top goal scorer, shared her elation, stating, “Winning the championship twice shows a lot of character in each individual on the team.

“We back each other 100% and are relentless in every aspect. I’m excited for the 2024 season and good vibes to come.”

Cholhok’s sentiment echoes through the team, with Head Coach Victoria Burgess attributing their success to unwavering dedication. “Winning the title in 2023 felt like an unbelievable achievement.

“I am proud of the squad and the bravery they displayed across the whole season, consistently performing on the court and supporting each other through adversity off the court.

“I could not be more complementary of the commitment, work rate, and focus of the whole squad.”

Burgess also praised Kukri’s involvement, expressing, “Kukri is a fantastic brand that consistently plays a huge part in our performances each season. “The pride the athletes feel putting on the Lightning dress is inspiring.”

This title-winning season adds another illustrious chapter to Loughborough Lightning’s history, and we take pride in being part of their journey.

We wish the Loughborough Lightning netball team the best of luck ahead of the new season.

Find out more about Loughborough Lightning.

Kukri are also proud partners of Severn Stars, who compete in the Netball Super League, providing all competition and leisurewear for the squad, as well as the franchise’s Under 21’s, Under 19s and Under 17s squads in the National Performance League and Stars’ 10 Nova Academy squads, which helps progress younger talent in the region.

Stars will also be hoping to build from last season, after finishing 6^th under the guidance of Head Coach Jo Trip.

Find out more about Severn Stars.

Are you looking for a new bespoke sportswear provider?

As a leading global bespoke sportswear provider, Kukri can support all teams from grassroots to elite level across a wide variety of team sports.

Contact us here to find out how we can empower your team.

02/02/202402/02/2024

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

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

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

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

What is Pickleball?

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

Who are Pickleball Ireland?

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

Kukri Pickleball Ireland National Championships

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

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

24/01/202423/01/2024

As a leading sportswear supplier for universities for over 25 years, Kukri Sports is committed to providing high-quality performance sportswear across a diverse range of sports, helping student athletes reach their full potential.

Over recent years, Kukri has elevated its role beyond supplying elite sportswear, aiming to contribute to the holistic development of athletes, students, and the broader university communities.

Kukri is also investing in scholarships, internship opportunities and hardship funds to empower and nurture student athletes’ development.

More than just a sportswear supplier:

Kukri’s role goes beyond being a standard sportswear supplier, by meticulously curating a range of kits that are tailored to meet the needs of multiple sports, students, staff and members of the Student Union within each university.

Kukri’s commitment is showing in its substantial investment in resources, time and experience dedicated to our partners and the experiences of their students. This is best highlighted over the past year, during which we have actively engaged in the following initiatives:

Scholarship Fund contributions:

A great example of this is with Kukri’s new partner – the University of Worcester.

As part of the deal, Kukri will not only be providing official match apparel and training wear for staff and students, but we’re also supporting the university and its scholarship students with necessary funding for the programme.

Our recent financial contribution to the University of Worcester’s scholarship fund has provided additional support for students, helping them to pursue and achieve their performance-related goals in their selected sports.

Over 61 students are on the scholarship with many benefitting, including second year Sport and Exercise Student, Niamh Williams, who has gone on to represent England U20’s rugby team.

Find out more about the University of Worcester.  

Hardship fund contributions:

Kukri also provide financial support for the hardship funds in place at some other partner universities including Plymouth Marjon University, University of Derby and Team Surrey.

The Hardship funds help to break down financial barriers to participation, encouraging students to participate in sport and physical activity.

Work experience opportunities:

As part of their continued commitment to nurturing talent, Kukri also continues to offer work experience opportunities for students across several partner universities.

The initiative aims to provide students with valuable insights into the sportswear industry, offering hands-on experience and mentorship from different departments.

Kukri is currently hosting Loughborough University BSc Sports and Exercise Science student, Lachlan Anson on a one-year work placement, as well as offering a Graphic Design placement at Nottingham Trent University and Product & Design placement at Manchester Metropolitan University.

Kukri also worked with three Leeds Beckett students in 2021 on marketing internships, providing them with exposure to website development and the fundamentals of digital marketing.

Brand ambassador experience:

In a move to recognise and further support student athletes across multiple sports, Kukri also offers student brand ambassador opportunities, including most recently at Nottingham Trent University.

This opportunity not only provides students with additional kit, but also social media exposure and the experience of collaborating with a sportswear brand to build knowledge on brand development and community engagement.

“Kukri Sports are not just a sportswear supplier to universities, but we’re also striving to build a community where dedication meets opportunity, and every athlete has the support they need to participate in sport,” said Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports.

“We’re excited to continue developing our partnerships and contribute to shaping the next generation of sporting champions across the country.”

Kukri Sports has evolved to become a trusted partner for universities, schools, clubs and teams around the world. We are committed to providing elite sportswear that enhances the performance and identity of athletes across various sports, as well as providing additional support for university students beyond the field.

For more information on how we can help you, get in touch.

08/01/202408/01/2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

22/12/202319/12/2023

With the curtain closing on another year, Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate some remarkable achievements and collaborative victories in 2023.

As the industry leading choice for athletes and teams around the world, Kukri has not only strengthened its position in the market, but has also continued to forge meaningful partnerships that underscores its commitment to excellence.

A year of innovation and growth

Kukri continued to innovate and enhance its product offerings in 2023, introducing cutting-edge fabrics, advanced performance features and stylish designs that fuel athletes’ performances at all levels.

Groundbreaking partnerships

Kukri’s commitment to supporting athletes across a wide range of sports resulted in exciting partnerships throughout the year.

The collaboration with Special Olympics saw the creation of individual kit for 82 athletes, 35 coaches and eight support staff for this year’s World Games. The partnership continues to promote inclusivity and diversity in sport, whilst helping to provide innovative and cutting-edge sportswear to help athletes break participation boundaries. Read more here.

Furthering its commitment to the education market, Kukri also joined forces with a variety of universities and schools, including Plymouth Marjon, University of Exeter and Dean Close School.

Kukri also extended its global reach with partnerships with international sports federations and organisations. A recent partnership with Barbados Olympic Association has seen an exciting new chapter, in which we played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and image of their teams competing in this year’s CAC Games El Salvador Dominican Republic and this year’s Commonwealth Youth Games.

Financial growth around the world

Kukri’s subsidiaries have also had a very successful year. Robust growth has not only contributed substantially to the overall revenue but has also diversified Kukri’s market presence.

Memorable moments for partners

2023 also saw some memorable moments for Kukri’s partners. Somerset County Cricket Club triumphed to win this year’s Vitality Blast, whilst Loughborough Lightning Netball team claimed their second Netball Super League title with a 57-48 win over London Pulse.

Amongst other achievements, England Lacrosse Senior Womens and Men’s were crowned Home International Champions, British Wheelchair Basketball’s Men’s team reached the IWBF World Championships final, Hong Kong China men won the Hangzhou Asian Games Rugby Sevens and Rugby School won their U18 rugby double header against Barbarian FC, bringing their bicentenary celebrations to an end in style.

Ambassadors continue to shine

Kukri is also pleased to have announced its new selection of Youth Talent Programme Ambassadors, in conjunction with England Athletics. Find out more.

One of the ambassadors, Amy Thompson, continues to raise awareness in her role about the misconceptions and importance of showcasing disabled athletes in sport. Amy was also crowned Ambulant shot-put champion at this year’s England Athletic Open and Senior Para Championships.

Our International Beach Volleyball Ambassadors, the Bello Brothers, have also had a successful year. Javier & Joaquin Bello were crowned UK Beach Tour champions for the fourth consecutive time this year, whilst also achieving bronze at the Beach Pro Tour in Goa, India, in October.

Find out more about our Ambassadors.

Reflecting on this year, Andrew Ronnie, Group Executive Chairman at Kukri Sports, said “I am thrilled to celebrate another successful year for Kukri Sports. Our commitment to innovation, partnerships, and sustainability has propelled us to new heights. We are very grateful to our partners, athletes and customers for their support, and we look forward to continuing to shape the future of sports next year.”

Are you looking for a sportswear provider?

Kukri is a leading global sportswear provider, renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation across a wide range of sports.

We offer a diverse range of products, designed for athletes at every level. Contact us here and start your journey today.