United Kingdom
Login / Register
Supporting women in sport isn’t just about kit – it’s about creating opportunities, celebrating athletes and breaking barriers.
On International Women’s Day, it’s about representation, confidence and investing in the next generation.
One story that embodies this spirit is UBC Women’s Rugby. As official kit supplier for over a decade, UBC Women’s Rugby continues to set the standard in Western Canada, winning four consecutive Canada West 7s titles, six consecutive Canada West 15s titles, back-to-back U SPORTS national championships, and with six players competing in last year’s Rugby Women’s World Cup.
We spoke with Olivia Sarabura, a key part of UBC’s recent success, about her journey, the growth of women’s rugby and what it means to be a woman in sport today.
“Being a part of the UBC Women’s Rugby program means everything to me. When I first started playing, I could not have imagined the places this sport would take me.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to compete at such a high level, and I hope my journey shows young girls that you don’t have to choose between education and playing the sport you love.”
Now entering her sixth year with the squad, Olivia said rugby has opened doors to both national and international experiences.
“It’s given me so many opportunities to be the best athlete and person that I can be.
“I’ve been able to represent my country playing rugby sevens and play for the best women’s rugby program in the country, something that wouldn’t have been possible a few decades ago.
“Growing up, I didn’t really see many female athletes on TV or in the news. Women’s rugby wasn’t popular at the time, and no one really covered what it was like to be a woman in sport.
“Now, I’m surrounded by world-class athletes who are my teammates, friends and family. I’m so grateful to be around them.”
When it comes to game day and giving her best, wearing Kukri kit is more than just putting on a uniform.
“Our coaches always say that our kit represents so much more than just us. They represent our team, the people who believe in us and the athletes who came before,” she explained.
“When I put on my Kukri kit, I play better because I know that I’m not just playing for myself – but all the people who made it possible for me to put it on and play the sport I love.”
While celebrating progress, Olivia stressed the importance of ongoing investment.
“Women’s rugby in Canada has so much potential. We have talented athletes, coaches and supporters who do a lot of unnoticed work to keep the sport at the highest level possible, but they need more support, funding and research.
“We need to keep elevating women’s rugby and investing in the future of girls and women.”
Olivia also encouraged newcomers to take the leap and get involved.
“I want young girls and women to know they can be strong, intense and aggressive, and find a sport that welcomes that.
“As a teacher in training, I often speak to young girls about rugby because they don’t realize that it is even an option for them.
“That’s why International Women’s Day is so important, it’s a chance to thank the women who paved the way and reflect on what still needs to be done.”
Kukri Sports is proud to stand alongside female athletes like Olivia and the UBC Women’s Rugby team — providing kit, support, and a platform for women to excel in sport and education worldwide.
Why do rugby clubs partner with Kukri?
– Proven long-term partnerships
– Dedicated account management – one point of contact to guide your project from design to delivery
– Fully bespoke sportswear – choose from over 200 designs.
– Flexible ordering options
– eCommerce management – with a dedicated online shop built and managed by Kukri
Join the team:
If you’re looking for a sportswear partner that delivers reliability, accountability and long-term value, get in touch and partner with Kukri today.
