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Category: News

Kukri Sports and Dungannon RFC Extend Long-Term Partnership

Ireland

Following an impressive start to life in the Energia All-Ireland League Division 2A, where they sit second in the table with just one defeat after promotion, Dungannon RFC is strengthening its off-field foundations by extending its long-standing partnership with Kukri Sports.

The renewed agreement will see Kukri Sports continue as the official kit supplier for Dungannon RFC, providing bespoke playing, training, and leisurewear across all levels of the club—from youth teams to senior squads.

The partnership reflects a shared commitment to performance, innovation and community impact within Irish rugby, while supporting athletes with high-quality, performance-driven apparel that blends tradition with forward-thinking design.

“We are delighted at Dungannon RFC to have resigned a new 3-year deal with a quality sports brand like Kukri.  We have been associated with Kukri for many years going back to the early 1990’s and have received a level of quality and service that’s aligned with our values and standards at Dungannon rugby.  Having achieved our goal this season of gaining promotion to division 2A of the AIL we look forward to continuing our partnership with Kukri over the next few seasons”. Philip McCammon, Chair of Sponsorship and Marketing at Dungannon RFC.

Dungannon RFC, one of Ulster’s most historic clubs, continues to demonstrate excellence both on and off the pitch. The club’s recent achievements, including their recent promotion into AIL Div 2A and run to the final of the Ulster Senior Cup, highlight the ambition and competitive spirit driving the club forward.

Neil Patterson, Country Manager, NI and ROI at Kukri Sports commented; “We’re incredibly proud to continue our partnership with Dungannon RFC, a club with such a rich rugby heritage and strong community values. At Kukri, we’re committed to delivering high-performance, bespoke sportswear that supports the needs of every player, from youth to senior level. We look forward to supporting the club’s ambitions both on and off the field in the seasons ahead.”

Kukri Sports, a global leader in bespoke sportswear, brings over two decades of experience in delivering customized apparel solutions to elite and grassroots sports organisations worldwide. The company’s emphasis on innovation and quality aligns seamlessly with Dungannon RFC’s values and ambitions.

About Dungannon RFC:

Established in 1873, Dungannon Rugby Football Club is one of Ireland’s oldest and most respected rugby clubs. Based in Dungannon, Northern Ireland, the club has a rich history of nurturing talent and competing at high levels within Irish rugby. Dungannon RFC is committed to promoting the sport’s values and fostering a strong community spirit.

Guelph Gryphons Men’s Rugby Make History With First National Championship

North America

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.

Want to know how we can empower your team? Explore our range of bespoke rugby sportswear.

Kukri Sports Teams Up With Horowhenua College in Game-Changing New Partnership

New Zealand

Kukri Sports is delighted to announce an exciting new partnership with Horowhenua College, becoming the school’s official uniform sports provider.

Beginning in 2026, Kukri will supply high-quality, customised sportswear across the school’s codes, supporting Horowhenua College’s vision of fostering pride, unity and strong athletic culture.

Known for its strong sense of community, commitment to student wellbeing and growing sporting culture, Horowhenua College, located in the heart of Levin, provides a wide range of pathways for students to develop academically and athletically.

The college’s dedication to fostering participation, pride and teamwork aligns strongly with Kukri’s values, making the partnership a natural fit.

Commenting on the partnership, Matthew Good, Director of Sport at Horowhenua College said, “I am incredibly proud to announce our new partnership with Kukri.

“This collaboration marks a significant step forward for our kura, strengthening the sense of pride and mana our students will carry onto the field, court and turf,” he said.

“With high-quality, modern uniforms that reflect our values and identity, we believe this partnership will inspire even greater enthusiasm and participation in sport across our school community.

“We look forward to seeing our student athletes represent Horowhenua College with confidence, unity and renewed passion in our new Kukri Sports uniforms.”

Mark McConnell of Kukri Sports New Zealand added, “We’re proud to welcome Horowhenua College as a new partner.

“Their commitment to participation, pride and a positive sporting environment resonates strongly with us. We look forward to providing high-quality uniforms that their students will wear with confidence and unity.”

This partnership highlights Kukri’s continued commitment to supporting schools and communities across the region with bespoke sportswear that celebrates identity and inspires performance across a wide range of sports.

About Horowhenua College

Horowhenua College has been a cornerstone of the Levin community for over 80 years, offering a supportive, diverse and future-focused learning environment for over 1,000 students.

With a strong emphasis on developing resilient, confident young people, the school continues to play an important role in nurturing future leaders within the Horowhenua region.

To learn more about them, visit their website.

Looking for a new sportswear provider?

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EXPANDING ROOTS AND RAISING STANDARDS IN IRISH SPORT

Ireland

Kukri Sports is strengthening its footprint in Ireland, building new partnerships with schools, universities, clubs and national governing bodies while supporting landmark sporting achievements and community initiatives.

With a growing portfolio of partners in traditional sports such as rugby, hockey and netball and new ventures into emerging sports including pickleball, volleyball and dragon boat racing – we are underlining our ambition to be the leading sportswear supplier for Irish sport.

A Growing Network of Partners

Recent additions like Bangor Hockey Club, along with continued partnership extensions with Pegasus Hockey Club, a relationship spanning over 20 years, and Lisnagarvey Hockey Club, further highlight Kukri’s reputation for consistent service, technical excellence and a genuine partnership approach.

Alongside clubs and schools, Kukri has become a trusted partner for national governing bodies including Netball Northern Ireland, Pickleball Ireland and Northern Ireland Volleyball, strengthening our leadership across both traditional and emerging sports.

“Kukri’s service and sportswear has been a reliable part of our teams’ success across multiple sports,” said Marty Lyttle, PE Teacher at Royal Belfast Academical Institution.

“The quality of kit, combined with their commitment to understanding our specific needs, has been instrumental in helping our athletes to perform at their best.”

Fuelling Success

The impact of Kukri’s high-performance apparel can be seen in some of the recent achievements of our partners on the pitch.

Blackrock College’s rugby team secured a record 71st Leinster Schools Senior Cup (March 2024)

RBAI’s rugby team added a 37th Medallion Shield to their collection (March 2024)

Cork Constitution RFC’s senior rugby team won their seventh Energia All Ireland League title (April 2024)

Portadown College girls Hockey ended a 29 year wait to lift the Belfast Telegraph Girls Senior Cup (March 2025)

Wallace High School made history with their first Ulster Schools’ Cup title in an all-Kukri final against Royal School Armagh (March 2025)

Limavady High School’s U16 rugby team lifted the Danske Bank High School Cup for the first time in over 30 years (March 2025)

Dungannon RFC’s rugby team were promoted to the All-Ireland League Division 2A (April 2025)

Netball Northern Ireland U21’s national squad qualified for the World Youth Cup after finishing in the top three in last year’s European Qualifiers (September 2025)

Leading Netball & Empowering Women in Sport

Kukri now supplies kit to 17 of the 31 registered netball clubs in Northern Ireland, establishing clear leadership in quality, collaboration and understanding of the sport’s specific needs.

The addition of regional ambassador Lauren Walshe, starting goalkeeper for Netball Northern Ireland’s senior squad and coach for Seven Towers Netball Club, reflects Kukri’s growing influence in women’s sport and its commitment to empowering female athletes at every level.

Community Impact

Our commitment to sport goes beyond competition. We’re dedicated to making a difference in the wider community:

26 Mountains to Mayo Challenge: Supplying bespoke training wear for 26 participants who climbed 26 of Ireland’s highest peaks, subsequently raising £1 million for Cancer Fund for Children.

Lagan Dragons: We’re proud to support Northern Ireland’s first breast cancer Dragon boat club, designing supporter t-shirts and training wear with a percentage of the proceeds funding vital initiatives.

Belfast City Marathon: We’re proud to be the official kit and merchandise partner for one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic and largest participatory sporting events, providing participant kit across all events.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, Kukri’s ambition in Ireland remains strong. We will continue to deepen relationships with local schools, universities, national governing bodies and grassroots clubs.

We are also continuing to expand our offering across even more sports and innovate our kit and service to meet the evolving needs of modern athletes at every level.  

“We’re incredibly proud of the success stories we’re helping to shape here,”said Neil Patterson, Kukri’s Country Manager for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. From grassroots champions to national squads, Kukri’s presence in Ireland is only getting stronger – and our commitment to innovation, adaptability, high-quality service and community impact will continue to drive everything we do.”

Elevate Your Game With Kukri

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.

Interested in partnering with us? Get in touch today

Kukri Sports Powers Multi-Sport Excellence at Dubai Sevens

Middle East

Kukri Sports is delighted to celebrate its significant presence at this year’s Emirates Dubai Sevens tournament, equipping a diverse roster of partners across rugby, netball and cricket.

Held at The Sevens Stadium from 28-30 November, the tournament brings together rugby, netball and cricket teams from across the region in an action-packed few days of sport, skill and community.

Kukri is proud to have over ten partners competing, equipping them with high-performance, bespoke kits and training wear across multiple sports, tailored to their unique demands.

This year’s participation builds upon recent successes for partners in the tournament, including Dubai College winning the U19 Gulf Cup and Jebel Ali School’s rugby team reaching the Plate Final last year.

Equipping Teams Across Multiple Sports

Dubai Hurricanes, among other participating teams, will compete in customised, high-quality kits across rugby, netball and cricket, while also showcasing their new off-field merchandise collection.

Each design reflects the team’s heritage, identity and performance requirements, ensuring players of all ages are equipped to look and perform at their best.

These seamless operations are supported by strong collaboration with UK print factories, guaranteeing product quality and flexible delivery timelines.

Celebrating Long-Term Partnerships

Long-standing relationships with partners such as Bahrain RFC, Dubai College and BSAK highlight Kukri’s commitment to supplying high-quality kits while fostering athlete development and sporting success.

Kukri will also have new partners in the competition, including Repton Dubai and Sharq Netball, who will be competing in the tournament for the first time.

“Witnessing our partner teams competing across different sports at this year’s Dubai Sevens is fantastic to see. It encompasses everything we are as a brand worldwide, capturing every teams’ identity and our shared passion for sport,” said Chris Marshall, Group COO at Kukri Sports.

“Our collaborations reflect the depth of our relationships in the region that we are continuing to grow. It’s not just about supplying premium apparel, but for us it’s also about supporting communities, celebrating athletes and providing bespoke solutions for every team we work with.”

Find out more about the Dubai Sevens

Kukri Sports Announced as Official Kit & Merchandise Partner of the Belfast City Marathon

Ireland

Kukri Sports are proud to announce a new partnership with the Belfast City Marathon, becoming the Official Kit and Merchandise Partner for one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sporting events.

As part of the multi-event agreement, Kukri Sports will supply all official participant kit and merchandise for the Belfast City Marathon, Half Marathon, Women’s 10K and 5K events, ensuring runners of all levels have access to high-quality, performance-driven apparel.

Founded in 1982, the Belfast City Marathon is one of the largest mass-participation sporting events in Ireland, attracting thousands of participants and supporters each year. Through this partnership, Kukri Sports aims to enhance the race-day experience by providing stylish, durable, and functional kit that reflects the prestige of the event.

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI & ROI at Kukri Sports, said:
“We are delighted to partner with the Belfast City Marathon – an event that not only celebrates sport and achievement but also unites communities. At Kukri, we pride ourselves on delivering bespoke sportswear that inspires athletes and participants to perform at their best, and we are excited to see thousands of runners representing Kukri on the streets of Belfast.”

Claire O’Neill, Chief Executive of Belfast City Marathon, added:

“We are delighted to enter a new partnership with Kukri Sports. We are excited to bring high-quality, performance-driven products to our participants, volunteers and wider community. As running continues to grow, it was important for us to select a partner who shares our commitment to inclusivity, quality and excellence, but also offers products which can be worn casually too.

“We are confident that Kukri will deliver on this promise and look forward to seeing our partnership enhance the experience for everyone involved in our events.”

This partnership highlights Kukri’s ongoing commitment to supporting mass-participation events and promoting sport at every level. With a heritage of providing custom sportswear to teams, schools, universities, and elite athletes worldwide, Kukri is perfectly positioned to deliver an outstanding apparel offering for Belfast’s flagship running events.

To learn more about the Belfast City Marathon, visit www.belfastcitymarathon.com.

How Kukri Sports and British Rowing Are Empowering Champions On & Off The Water

United Kingdom

The partnership between Kukri Sports and British Rowing has become a driving force behind the sport’s continued growth and competitive success.

Known for creating high-performance kit built around the real demands of training and competition, Kukri work closely with British Rowing’s athletes and coaches to ensure every detail supports the pursuit of excellence.

This commitment to innovation, consistency and long-term collaboration has helped establish an environment where rowing crews feel equipped, supported and united.

That approach has contributed to a landmark year for British Rowing, including triumphing in the World Rowing Cup series in June and topping the medal table at the European Rowing Championships.

Among athletes thriving within this system is Benjamin Pritchard, British para-rower, Paralympic Champion, World Champion, European Champion and world record holder.

Benjamin’s rise has been remarkable, from making his GB Rowing team international debut at the 2019 World Championships to becoming a Paralympic champion at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

Moments That Shaped a Champion

1. The First Stroke

Benjamin’s journey began long before the medals, with a moment that changed everything.

“When I first sat in a boat, I didn’t know where it would lead, but I felt possibility again. Rowing gave me a way to rebuild, to focus not on what I’d lost but on what I could still become.

“It was the first step toward a new identity and a new purpose.”

2. The Podium – Realising What’s Possible

From that first stroke to the world stage, Benjamin’s progress has been shaped by resilience, consistency and a relentless commitment to improving. His defining moment, crossing the Paris 2024 Paralympic finish line and winning gold offered clarity on just how far he’d come.

“This photo captures the culmination of years of graft, frustration, resilience and belief,” he explained.

“Being on that podium wasn’t just about winning a race, it was a reminder that our limits often sit far beyond where we imagine them to be.”

3. A New Purpose

Perhaps the biggest shift of all came with the arrival of his daughter with wife, Meg.

“Efa came into our lives two years ago, and although she hasn’t been part of my entire journey, her arrival reshaped the reason I chase big goals.

“She reminded me that purpose evolves. This image represents a deeper ‘why’,” he explained. “Not chasing success for its own sake but striving to be someone she can look up to.

“It brought a new motivation that continues to guide the next chapter of my career.”

Benjamin’s Advice for Aspiring Para-Rowers and Athletes

Benjamin’s experiences have shaped a philosophy he now shares with aspiring para-rowers and athletes.

He encourages athletes to focus on the basics and fall in love with the process, explaining “Growth rewards consistency… if you can find joy in the small improvements and the daily routine, progress will follow.”

He also insisted that setbacks are unavoidable, but stressed that they are manageable. “Injury, bad races and plateaus are inevitable. I overcame them by controlling what I could, my effort, attitude and preparation,” he explained.

“Progress often comes right after the moments you’re tempted to give up, and that’s something I still actively work on with the team around me.”

Driving Excellence Together

Benjamin’s journey, from discovering a love for the sport to becoming Paralympic champion at world record holder, shows how purpose, perseverance and the right support network can transform talent into achievement.

Together, Kukri and British Rowing continue to set the standard for excellence, inspiring the next generation of athletes to push boundaries and chase their own extraordinary moments.

UBC Women’s Rugby Make History With Back-to-Back National Titles

North America

In the most dramatic finish the U SPORTS Women’s Rugby National Championship has seen in years, UBC Women’s Rugby secured back-to-back national titles.

The Thunderbirds became only the second programme in 15 years to achieve consecutive championships, and the first in UBC’s storied history.

As proud long-standing partners, Kukri Sports were with them every step of the way, providing the high-performance kit that the team wore on their road to victory, inspiring every big tackle, important try and every crucial moment.

The team’s path to the trophy was anything but straightforward. After defeating Laval 32-10 in the quarter-final and edging past Queen’s 20-14 in a bruising semi-final, UBC entered the final against Victoria Vikes prepared for another battle.

In front of a home-crowd of 1,800 fans, the match swung back and forth with high intensity, before Adia Pye’s last-minute try sealed a historic victory.

Performing Under Pressure

“This one feels even more special than the first,” said Head Coach Dean Murten.

“We took the toughest route possible, facing the top three seeds in the country, and had to fight for every point and every inch of territory.

“It wasn’t always pretty, but it was full of heart and that’s what pushed us through.”

For standout player Lana Dueck, the pressure of defending a national title, and doing so on home soil, only made the victory more meaningful.

“Winning back-to-back national titles was a surreal feeling… actually doing what we set our goals to on our home field in front of a packed stadium felt like a dream.”

Even when the Vikes took the lead late in the match, the team refused to panic.

“In those final moments, it was very hard to stay present and not lose hope,” she admitted.

“But once we turned the ball over, it hit me that we could really do this. We just had to stay calm, and keep possession until the opportunity came – and when it did, it was the best moment ever.”

A Championship Built on Trust, Hard Work & Cohesion

Throughout the season, the Thunderbirds built a foundation that allowed them to thrive under the highest pressure.

“We reached a new playing level we’d been working towards all season,” Dueck said.

“We thrived under the pressure and leaned on the hard work we’d put in. I had full trust that #1 through to #25 had my back, and that gave me the confidence to play to the best of my ability.”

That unity was visible long before the Nationals final. In the semi-final against Queen’s, UBC defended on their try line for what felt like an eternity – a moment that Dueck believes set the tone for their championship triumph.

“The heart and resilience we showed in those last few minutes to not give up and keep on putting big hits gave us a new standard and confidence heading into the final.”

Confidence in Every Moment

Team identity and confidence played a major role in their success, with Dueck crediting the kit from Kukri as part of that feeling.

“Wearing Kukri kit and feeling good in what you’re wearing adds to the confidence you play with.

“Having uniformity adds to the cohesion we need on the field and the professional reputation we want to present as a team in all competitions.”

A Legacy Secured

With this historic run, UBC Women’s Rugby have cemented themselves among the elite in Canadian rugby.

A championship built on resilience. A title won under immense pressure. A legacy defined by unity, belief and a team determined to finish what it started.

Commenting on their success, Jamie Williams, Vice President at Kukri North America, said “We’re incredibly proud of UBC Women’s Rugby during such a historic moment for the programme.

“Their resilience, unity and commitment to excellence reflect everything we value as a partner. To see them achieve back-to-back national titles while wearing Kukri kit is a privilege, and we’re honoured to play a part in their continued success.”

Back-to-back champions – and history made.

Unbeaten Kukri Ambassador Kieran Molloy Targets Another Statement Win

United Kingdom

Unbeaten in his professional career, Kukri Sports ambassador Kieran Molloy enters the ring in Brighton on Friday 21st November, ready to make another statement.

Last time out, he produced a stunning third-round TKO victory over Nourdeen Toure, a performance that left fans and pundits taking notice of his skill, power, and composure.

The exciting Irishman is set for his next fight on the Wasserman ‘Point to Prove’ undercard against Zeuz Varguez Soberanis, a fighter known for his toughness and Mexican grit.

“These Mexicans come to win, they are tough as nails. I feel well prepared… I don’t see him bringing anything to the table that I haven’t seen before. I’m well prepared, training twice a day and just ready to fight now.”

Built on Intensity and Preparation

Kieran’s training camp has been rigorous, focusing on refining technique, sharpening strategy, and enhancing his natural power.

“We train to knock people out in this gym; there are never any stones left unturned. We’re going to keep it clean in the fight early doors, but once we smell blood, we’re going to go for it.”

Physically and mentally, Kieran feels in peak condition after recently moving training camps and working under his new coach.

“I’m in a great place at the moment with boxing, so I just want to keep that momentum and keep on growing,” he said.

“I’m improving all the time; it’s a fresh start, and I’m loving it while adding a lot to my game. I feel like I’m another step closer to grabbing those titles.”

With this being his final eight-round fight before stepping into ten-round title fights in the new year, every punch and round carries significance.

“Securing the win and looking strong in this fight is important; it’ll be another step toward those titles.”

The Journey That Built Him

Kieran’s rise isn’t just about professional success – it’s a story shaped by family, mentorship, dedication, and defining moments. He shared three photos that have captured his journey so far.

Photo 1: With My Grandad – The First Believer

“A picture with my granddad at the Connaught Tribune Sports Awards. He was my number one supporter and was always so proud of my achievements.”

Photo 2: The Day I Signed Professional

“A picture with my family after signing a professional deal. They have supported me so much and are my biggest motivation.”

Photo 3: My First Senior Elite National Title

“This was captured moments after winning my first senior elite national title. My dad coached me from five years old in preparation for that night. I was the first ever senior champion from the Oughterard Boxing Club.”

Onwards to Brighton

As a proud Kukri ambassador, Kieran carries not just skill and power into the Brighton ring, but the weight of a journey built on family, mentors, and relentless determination.

With an unbeaten record and a highlight-reel TKO behind him, all eyes will be on Molloy as he writes the next chapter of his remarkable rise.