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The team capped off a fantastic 2025 season by winning their first-ever Canadian University Men’s Rugby Championship.
The Gryphons also claimed their fifth straight OUA Championship, finishing an undefeated season that highlighted their domination across the region.
At the heart of this historic achievement was not only the players’ relentless effort but also the support of Kukri, who have provided high-quality, performance-driven apparel that fuelled their performances and team spirit on and off the field.
Leadership & Culture
Reflecting on making history, Men’s Rugby Head Coach said, “This championship represents the relentless work by players, staff, parents and alumni.
“This wasn’t just representative of the work of those this year, but the near decade of work that has gone in. The championship justifies all of the hard work and sacrifice to achieve this goal.”
Looking back at when he first believed this team could achieve an undefeated season, Cory added, “There was a core belief in the group that started in January.
“We felt we had the team to do it last year but we fell short, and that fuelled the belief the group had for a long time,” he explained.
The Support From Kukri
On the support from Kukri, Cory added, “I really think when you look good, you feel good.
“Having two amazing sets of kit allowed our players to look and feel like a team. Our bench jackets were invaluable too for keeping players on the bench warm, focused and ready to perform when called upon.”
Jamie Williams, Vice President of Kukri North America, said, “We’re incredibly proud to support the Guelph Gryphons team in this historic season and see their hard work and team spirit reflected on and off the field. Their commitment, teamwork and dedication on the field reflect exactly what we aim to support with our performance-driven apparel.
“It’s a real honor to be part of their journey and see them achieve this milestone.”
Inside The Player Experience
For fourth-year fly half Brenden Black, the championship is a moment of personal pride as well as a historic milestone.
“It’s honestly an incredible feeling. Being part of the first Guelph team to ever win a national championship still hasn’t fully sunk in.
“I’ve experienced seasons where we genuinely believed we had the talent and systems to get it done, so to finally breakthrough feels like both a massive relief and unbelievable reward for all the work that’s gone into the program.”
Brenden reflects on the team’s day-to-day commitment that played a big factor in the triumph. “There wasn’t one big moment, it was more of a collection of smaller moments throughout the season.
“No matter the conditions or challenges, everyone that showed up fully bought into the process. That consistent effort and belief made it clear that this group had something special.”
He also emphasized the role of Guelph’s partnership with Kukri. “Their support has been consistent, dependable and a meaningful part of what made this season special for us.
“When you have a reliable kit, it takes one more variable off your plate. It allows us to focus entirely on our preparation and execution.”
Looking ahead, Cory and Brenden are focused on sustaining the program’s success.
“Our goals will remain unchanged, and we will continue to strive to create a competitive environment where players can develop and have fun,” said Cory.
Looking Ahead
Brenden added, “I’m confident the program is in great hands for the coming years. While I won’t be on the field with them, I’m excited to watch this group continue to grow, build on what we accomplished and push the standard even higher.”
With their first national championship secured, a fifth consecutive OUA title, and the relentless support of Kukri, the Gryphons Men’s Rugby team has firmly cemented their place in Canadian university rugby history.
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