Author: garethloopdesignagency

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.

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.

08/12/202308/12/2023

As the Welsh Trampoline/DMT Championships edge closer, Kukri Sports recently sat down with accomplished trampoline gymnast, India Marshall, as she shared an insight into her gymnastics journey and aspirations in an exclusive interview.

Reflecting on her journey in gymnastics, India said, “I saw it on TV and just decided to take it on and have loved it ever since.” This love for the sport has driven her to impressive heights, including a standout moment in 2016 when she triumphed to claim Individual and Team Gold at the Junior Commonwealth Championships in Namibia.

“I was shocked because I was against other women who were incredible and didn’t think I stood a chance, but winning the team medal for Wales was an amazing feeling with a great group of girls.”

The upcoming Welsh Trampoline/DMT Championships, which will take place at Sport Wales on Sunday 10 December, hold special importance for India, who shared her preparation strategy ahead of the event. “Leading up to the Championships, I have been really focusing on developing confidence and competence linking multiple doubles and increasing my height.

“My main skill-based goals are to increase my confidence and increase my time of flight. I have been working a lot this year on my competition mindset and figuring out what works for me in terms of focus and preparation.”

India also emphasised the importance of mental aspects of competition preparation, stating, “Finding enjoyment outside of training and making time for myself has also been imperative in maintaining focus throughout the last 5 weeks of competition prep.

“In trampolining, you have to be so patient and trust the process, things don’t happen at the click of a finger. You have to be disciplined, keep going and turning up to training and if things aren’t going right, take a step back and go again.”

As she approaches the Championships, India remains focused on her goals, both in terms of skills and mindset. “I just want to keep enjoying and loving it. I want to keep going and pushing myself, hopefully compete in more Internationals in the future, and the Olympics would be awesome too.

“I love the sport and love competing, so reminding myself I have the choice to turn up to training every day helps me maintain my focus and discipline.

“Learning isn’t linear, and knowing I train and compete because I want to is a massive factor in my motivation.

“As long as I’m enjoying it and my body allows me to do it, I’ll keep going.”

Kukri have been a proud partner of Welsh Gymnastics for a number of years, providing bespoke leisure and podium wear for all performance programmes, national teams and squads.

Kukri, who extended its deal with Welsh Gymnastics in 2022, continue to work on advancing the style, fit and performance of the kit range to ensure gymnasts can unleash their greatness in training and respective competitions.

Find out more about Welsh Gymnastics.

As an elite multi-sports sportswear supplier, we are committed to providing athletes and teams at all levels with high-quality and cutting edge performance wear.

We support all athletes in their pursuit of greatness at all levels, and wish our partner’s gymnasts the best of luck competing in the Welsh Trampoline/DMT Championships this weekend.

Are you looking for a sportswear provider? Get in touch here.

06/12/202306/12/2023

As we look ahead to next year in Athletics, Kukri Sports are delighted to announce its new Youth Talent Programme Ambassadors for 2024.

In partnership with England Athletics, each Ambassador has been carefully selected from the England Athletics Youth Talent Programme, which is the first step on the Talent Pathway designed to meet the needs of identified, English athletes/para-athletes between 16 and 18 years of age.

Find out more about the Youth Talent Programme.

We are pleased to confirm that Amy Thompson and Gracie Wall will be continuing in their roles as Kukri Sports YTP Ambassadors.

Our four new Ambassadors include:

Ayesha Jones

Event: Javelin

Find out more about Ayesha

Lizzie Dodds

Event: 100m, 200m & long jump

Find out more about Lizzie

Rudi May

Event: Pole Vault

Find out more about Rudi

Tom Rutter

Event: Javelin

Find out more about Tom

Throughout next year, Kukri will support the Ambassadors in a variety of ways:

Elevating Performances with high-quality sportswear

Kukri are committed to delivering high-quality sportswear to all athletes, and will be providing sportswear designed to help our athletes’ performances reach new heights. From cutting-edge materials to precision in every detail, our products are crafted to maximise comfort and help athletes to unleash their greatness in their discipline.

Brand Engagement Opportunities

On top of providing high-quality sportswear, Kukri is also invested in the success of its athletes and providing additional support. The programme offers brand engagement opportunities that extend beyond the track or field, fostering a sense of community and support that will help our athletes grow.

Athletes will have the chance to showcase their athletic journey and create other content on Kukri’s social media channels, in the hope of inspiring others and furthering their connections within the athletics community.

Representing the brand

Our YTP Ambassadors will be proudly representing the brand at future England Athletics competitions, as well as in training sessions.

Kukri’s previous YTP Ambassador, Jess Bailey, represented Team England at this year’s Commonwealth Youth Games, finishing 4^th in the 3000m event.

Click here to read more about her ‘special’ experience.

Commenting on our new selection of YTP Ambassadors, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, said “We are pleased to welcome our new YTP Ambassadors in collaboration with England Athletics.

“We believe in providing more than just high-quality sportswear, offering unique brand engagement opportunities to provide the athletes with the exposure they need. We are excited to continue empowering the next generation of athletic stars on their journey to greatness and look forward to working with them all over the next year.”

Kukri Sports are proud to be partnered with England Athletics and are committed to providing athletes with the sportswear and support they need to perform at their best. We’re also proud to support the England Athletics Youth Talent Programme and support young athletes on their athletics journey.

Find out more about England Athletics.

Find out more about our Ambassadors.

15/11/202315/11/2023

Kukri Sports are pleased to announce that Ayesha Jones, who was recently crowned Sporting Equals Young Sportsperson of the Year whilst representing England, has been selected as a new Youth Talent Programme Ambassador for the 2023/24 Athletics season.

Ayesha, a rising star in athletics, has enjoyed great success over recent seasons in her discipline, javelin, after becoming a Commonwealth Youth Games Champion and record holder at this year’s games in Trinidad & Tobago, throwing an impressive 52.49m.

Ayesha, a Commonwealth Youth Games champion, is thrilled about her new role and the opportunity to inspire younger athletes. “When I was contacted and asked if I wanted to become a Kukri Sports YTP Ambassador, I felt honoured. To be able to have Kukri’s trust and support in becoming an ambassador and being able to represent the brand moving forwards is incredible.”

Ayesha, who will be joined by five other ambassadors selected by Kukri Sports for the 2023/24 Athletics season, continues to break records after enjoying successful 2022 and 2023 seasons.

Speaking on her recent achievements, Ayesha admitted she’s ‘living a dream’ and paid testament to her family. “Being in environments with other top athletes from around the world is something I will always cherish, as well as becoming a Commonwealth Youth Games champion.

“Winning the title for my discipline was something I wanted since I heard about the selection, and to be able to achieve it as well as setting a new games record was surreal.

“I’ve missed family events or left events early to go training, but I know they understand and are all proud of me for what I have achieved up to this point. Succeeding the way I have is showing me what I do is something to be proud of.”

Moving forwards, the recently crowned Sporting Equals Young Sportsperson of the Year award is hungry for more success. “Hopefully I can become an England Senior athlete. Representing my country and myself at the World Championships as well as the Olympic Games.

“My ultimate goal is to continue to perform to the best of my ability and being recognised, not only as a progressing athlete but also reaching Senior Level.”

Commenting on the news, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, said “We are delighted to welcome Ayesha as a new Youth Talent Programme Ambassador. We’re looking forward to supporting her in future competitions and believe she will be a great role model for younger athletes.”

The Youth Talent Programme, in conjunction with Kukri’s partner, England Athletics, is the first key step on the Talent Pathway designed to identify, develop and support athletes and para-athletes from aged 16+ who have the potential to represent England and Great Britain at domestic and international competitions in the future.

Click here to find out more about the Youth Talent pathway.

The partnership between Kukri Sports and England Athletics with the Youth Talent Programme Ambassadors promises exciting developments. Stay tuned for upcoming events, collaborative content and more coming soon.

Kukri Sports are proud to be partnered with England Athletics and are committed to providing athletes with the products and support they need to perform at their best. We’re also proud to support the England Athletics Youth Talent Programme and to help young athletes reach their full potential.

Click here to find out more about England Athletics.

14/11/202313/11/2023

Kukri Sports are delighted to announce our new 5 year partnership with Dean Close School, a leading education provider, based in Cheltenham.

As part of the partnership, Kukri will provide a full range of bespoke sportswear for staff and pupils, both on and off field.

Dean Close was established in 1886 and offers all-through education for day and boarding pupils ages 2-18. The school has 100 percent participation in sport and physical activity, with over 800 pupils from year 3 to 13 already taking part in school sport and physical activity in nearly 1500 fixtures played over the year. Click here to find out more about Dean Close.

“We are delighted to have forged a partnership with Kukri sports after an extensive process where we research the market to see who we felt would work best with Dean Close.  Kukri’s work with Team England at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham last year convinced us that the range and quality of their kit could meet our own standards and expectations. It has already proved to be a real partnership, where Kukri have listened and responded to our needs and feedback to finally arrive at a range of kit that will allow us to progress and adapt to the future of school sport.” – Greg Barber-Williams, Director of Sport, Dean Close.

“Kukri Sports are proud to be working with Dean Close and become the official sportswear provider to the school. We will provide multiple ranges, to cover school PE and games, first team kit, staff wear and wider merchandise. We are excited to deliver the new ranges and showcase the quality of what Kukri has to offer.

Kukri will also aim to support wider projects at Dean Close, with a key one being sustainability. Kukri has found real synergy with Dean Close, with both organisations looking at making huge strides on the environmental impact they have within their two industries.

We are looking forward to seeing how far the partnership can grow over the coming years!” – Josh Beal, Sales Director, Kukri Sports.

To find out how we can support your sportswear needs, contact us.