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Category: News

Kukri Sports & Matrics Netball Club Extend Partnership, Boosting Netball’s Growth in Australia

Australia

Kukri Sports are delighted to announce a multi-year extension of its partnership with Matrics Netball Club, a powerhouse in the world of netball in Australia. This renewed commitment solidifies the relationship between the two entities and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their collaboration.

Since the partnership began in 2013, Kukri Sports has provided Matrics Netball Club with market leading apparel, ensuring that players are equipped to perform at their best on the court, whilst looking great off it.

As part of the extended partnership, Kukri Sports will continue to work closely with Matrics Netball Club to develop customised teamwear tailored to the specific needs of the players. Additionally, both parties will collaborate on various initiatives aimed at promoting the sport of netball and fostering community engagement.

“We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Matrics Netball Club,” said Aaron Zwart, Sales Manager at Kukri Sports. “Over the years, we have witnessed the dedication and passion of the club’s members, and we are committed to supporting them in their pursuit of excellence. This extension represents our shared vision for the future of netball and underscores our ongoing commitment to providing athletes with the tools they need to succeed.”

Who are Matrics Netball Club

In 1972, students from Elizabeth High School, eager to play sports, formed Matrics Sports Club. Initially comprising basketball, tennis, and netball teams, the club’s focus gradually shifted to netball. Over the years, it became the leading Matrics Netball Club in South Australia, with matches held at the Netball SA stadium. The club fields premier league and reserve teams in state competitions, boasting over 200 championship titles. With a strong presence in both senior and junior divisions, Matrics competes in various competitions, fostering talent from young ages to adulthood. Beyond netball, Matrics emphasizes personal development and community connection, providing a supportive environment for its members. Find Out More

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The renewed partnership between Kukri Sports and Matrics Netball Club exemplifies a shared commitment to excellence, teamwork, and innovation. As they embark on this new chapter together, both parties are confident that their continued collaboration will yield even greater success both on and off the court.

If you are interested in partnering with Kukri Sports or have inquiries regarding your kit requirements, feel free to Get In Touch.

KUKRI SPORTS CELEBRATES 25 YEARS: A LEGACY OF PARTNERSHIPS, INNOVATION AND GROWTH

World News

This year, Kukri Sports celebrates 25 years of innovation and dedication to the global sporting community.

For 25 years, we have improved athletes’ performance and style across various sports, building strong global partnerships with educational institutions, national governing bodies, and professional clubs. These relationships have established us as a leading supplier of multi-sports sportswear, empowering communities and individuals in their sporting endeavours.

Supporting a wide range of sports

We play a pivotal role in supporting athletes across a wide range of sports, including Rugby, Cricket, Netball, Athletics, Gymnastics, and Hockey.

Over the years, we have been the official partner and merchandise supplier for prestigious events and teams such as the Hong Kong Sevens, Waikato Rugby and Team Canada.

Our expansion into various sports reflects our commitment to meeting athletes’ evolving needs, evidenced by partnerships with England Athletics and England Lacrosse, as well as British Fencing and British Wrestling, who we partnered with in 2022.

Last year, we expanded our support to the Barbados Olympic Association, and this year, we announced a new partnership with Pickleball Ireland, providing support for the inaugural Pickleball Ireland National Championships which saw over 500 pickleball enthusiasts compete.

Innovative Kit Developments

We have continuously pushed boundaries in kit development, producing and sourcing over 13 million garments to partners across the globe.

We develop innovative solutions to help athletes perform their best, from moisture-wicking fabrics to advanced temperature control.

Our commitment to ongoing improvement extends to sustainability, prioritizing the use of eco-friendly materials in all our sportswear. Our sustainable range, launched in 2021, integrates eco-friendly production processes, ensuring durability change, making our sportswear suitable for athletes across a variety of sports. Find out more here.

Expanding our global presence

From our origins in the United Kingdom, we have expanded our reach over the past 25 years, establishing a strong presence in key regions worldwide, including most recently Saudi Arabia, China and South Africa.

We also have offices in regions such as Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Canada and Ireland and the Middle East.

Reflecting on a significant milestone for the business, Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports, said “Celebrating 25 years of Kukri Sports fills us with immense pride. From our start producing bespoke teamwear since 1999, our mission to empower athletes remains unchanged. This milestone reflects the dedication of our team, partners, and the athletes who trust Kukri. We look forward to continuing innovating, expanding, and making a positive impact on sports worldwide.”

Celebrating 25 Years of Sporting Excellence

As we commemorate our 25th year anniversary, we look forward to the next chapter of innovation, collaboration, and sporting excellence. With a legacy built on passion and performance, we remain dedicated to empowering athletes to participate in sport and reach new heights, regardless of their ability, age or gender.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS WEEK: PARTNER ATHLETES SHARE INSPIRING STORIES

In the pursuit of victory, athletes endure physical challenges, yet often grapple with unseen mental struggles. Recognising this, Kukri Sports collaborates with its diverse partner teams to help destigmatize mental health and empower athletes both on and off the field.

During Mental Health Awareness Week, athletes from our partner teams shared their personal journeys.

Hong Kong China Rugby (Asia)

Kukri Sports proudly supports the Hong Kong China Men’s and Women’s teams, enabling them to excel at the Hong Kong Sevens (HK7s).

Read more about this year’s tournament.

Representing Hong Kong on the international stage comes with a unique set of mental demands.

“Some of the most obvious challenged I faced were during major injuries,” said Chloe Chan, HKC Women’s Sevens player.

“Feeling isolated when the team is training or competing was tough, but I learned to switch off and spend time with loved ones. Journalling my milestones helped me stay positive and overcome obstacles.”

Max Denmark, HKC Sevens Men’s player, added: “My biggest challenge was losing an Olympic qualifier early in my career. I felt a heavy burden and disconnected for a long time. But after seeking help from a therapist, I learned to let go and move on. It was tough, but I came out stronger.

“Every athlete faces challenges, and it’s okay to seek help. We shouldn’t feel like we have to deal with everything alone.”

UBC Women’s Rugby (Canada)

As a proud partner of the UBC Women’s Rugby team, we collaborate with the team on their playing kit and specific rugby apparel, ensuring it is durable and comfortable for the players. The team has enjoyed great success over recen, being crowned Canada West Women’s Rugby Champions in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023.

Speaking on the importance of mental health in sport, Dean Murten, Head Coach of UBC Rugby’s Ladies Team, said “We have an open-door policy so athletes can talk with coaches at any time.

“These athletes are first and foremost people; they are under large amounts of pressure to perform. The more awareness and letting them know it’s good to talk helps them stay in a positive state of mind.”

Dean also praised Kukri’s impact on the wider support they provide to help with athletes’ mental health. “Partners like Kukri are great as they offer scholarships that provide financial support to student athletes, allowing them to dedicate the required time to their education and sport without added pressure.”

Read more about UBC Thunderbirds’ mental health initiative.

Watch the video here.

Kieran Molloy (Ireland)

Kukri Ambassador Kieran Molloy, an exciting Irish professional boxer, shares his journey and underscores the importance of communication and support amidst pressures.

“As an athlete I’ve been through many ups and downs.

“I like to always remember why I am doing this. To see the pride in my parents’ eyes after a victory means everything to me and keeps me motivated.

“It’s important to let people who are close to you know how you are feeling. There’s a lot of pressures & expectations on athletes that can be difficult to deal with, but at the end of the day we are all human beings and have the same feelings as everyone else.”

Mental health is key to unlocking an athlete’s potential. By fostering open conversations and providing necessary resources, we are committed to helping athletes across sports thrive on and off the field.

For more information on how we can help you with your sportswear needs, get in touch.

If you need mental health support, reach out to your primary healthcare provider for guidance. You can also call Samaritans on 116 123 or click here to view the full list.

Empowering Athletes: Kukri Sports’ Commitment to Mental Well-being

United Kingdom

In a world where the pressures of performance often overshadow the importance of mental health, Kukri Sports aims to offer support for athletes at every level. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s crucial to recognise the profound impact that sports and physical activity can have on mental well-being. At Kukri, we believe in empowering athletes not only on the field but also in their personal journeys towards better mental health.

The Psychological Benefits of Exercise:

Research continues to affirm that physical activity is a powerful tool for maintaining mental well-being. Whether it’s the rush of endorphins during a vigorous workout or the meditative calm of a long run, exercise offers a sanctuary for the mind amidst life’s strains and stresses. Studies show that regular physical activity can alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression, offering a natural and holistic approach to mental health management.

Sportswear Designed for Comfort and Performance:

At Kukri, we understand that the right sportswear can make all the difference in an athlete’s performance and well-being. That’s why our sportswear isn’t just about style; it’s about substance. Our apparel is meticulously designed to provide unparalleled comfort, support, and freedom of movement. From moisture-wicking fabrics that keep you cool under pressure to ergonomic designs that adapt to your body’s every move, our sportswear is engineered to enhance both your physical performance and your mental resilience.

Empowering Athletes Beyond the Game:

Our commitment to athletes goes beyond sportswear. At Kukri Sports, we empower athletes in all aspects of life. We support mental well-being through awareness campaigns and direct assistance. This dedication extends to all our ambassadors, including England Athletics, Youth Talent Programme ambassadors, boxing’s Kieran Molloy, and Beach Volleyball’s The Bello Brothers – find out more about our ambassadors.

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us not forget the importance of prioritising mental health. This Mental Health Awareness Week, we invite athletes everywhere to join us in embracing the power of sports and physical activity. Whether you’re a professional athlete chasing glory or a weekend warrior seeking solace on the field, know that Kukri Sports stands with you, every step of the way. Together, let’s empower each other to thrive, both on and off the field, as we champion the cause of mental well-being in sports and beyond.

COMMITTED TO PROMOTING HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES

United Kingdom

Throughout the last month, Kukri Sports is pleased to have shone a spotlight on the many benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

Our ‘Get Fit Month’ campaign was designed to inspire individuals to prioritise their physical well-being and fitness through raising awareness of the importance of exercise.

We were proud to collaborate with key partners to provide insightful perspectives from athletes across a wide range of sports.

Highlights of the campaign included:

Fitness tips from Yorkshire CCC & Northern Diamonds stars: Read more from Dawid Malan, Shan Masood and Lauren Winfield-Hill on their tips on nutrition and recovery. Click here.

    Core workout with Gracie Wall: Our YTP Ambassador gave an insight into one of her core workouts that you can incorporate into your routine. Watch the full video here.

    Q&A with British Wrestlers: We spoke with Kelsey and Danoush from British Wrestling on their workouts, nutrition and the importance of mentality in their performance. Find out more here.

    Daily routine with Loughborough Lightning’s Annabel Roddy: Loughborough Lighting Netball’s Annabel Roddy shared an insight into her daily routine, from intense gym work to her drills in training. Watch the video here.

    Gym tips from fitness instructors: Loughborough University fitness coaches gave you five exercises to kickstart your journey in the gym. Learn more here.

    “Get Fit Month was a great way to showcase our commitment to raising awareness about the benefits of a healthier, active lifestyle. Collaborating with athletes provided fantastic insights into their fitness perspectives, inspiring people to take action towards a healthier lifestyle.” Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

    Kukri looks forward to building on its momentum and continuing to inspire positive change in the lives of its customers and other fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

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

    Balmy Beach Rugby Club and Kukri Sports Canada Announce Landmark Partnership

    Canada

    Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce a new three-year partnership with Balmy Beach Rugby Club, based in Canada, as their official on-field and off-field apparel supplier.

    Balmy Beach Rugby Club is a renowned institution in Canadian rugby, boasting a rich history and successful programs for senior and youth players. Kukri is excited to support the club over the next three seasons by providing custom-designed apparel that reflects Balmy Beach’s proud legacy as a leading Canadian rugby club.

    “Kukri Sports is excited to be supporting the club over the next 3 years with custom products and designs which will look to promote the proud history of Balmy Beach as a leading club in Canada. Look out for the club members sporting their new Kukri leisure, training and performance apparel during the 2024 season.” Dan Gordon, Easter Canada Sales Manager – Kukri Sports

    The exclusive partnership with Kukri North America allows Balmy Beach to design and deliver competition, training, and spirit wear that fosters a unique identity for each team while maintaining a consistent look and quality that aligns with the club’s vision and values.

    “Balmy Beach RFC is proud to announce a new partnership with premier rugby kit designer and supplier Kukri Sports.  The Beach has been a long-time customer of Kukri, from our juniors to our senior teams, and this new partnership solidifies our ongoing successful collaboration to deliver best in class kit and support to our players and teams.  Kukri has always provided excellent and innovative customer support and products to the Beach; looking forward to hitting the pitch in 2024 (and into the future) in our custom designed Kukri competition and spirit wear.” Chris Kalbfleisch, Junior Rugby Director, Balmy Beach RFC.

    About Balmy Beach Rugby Club

    The Balmy Beach Rugby Club (established in 1955) is a large and successful rugby club in Toronto with a rich history. They offer programs for men, women, and youth (from U8 to U18+) and focus on fostering a love for the game in a fun and progressive environment. They are especially proud of their Senior Men’s section’s 13 McCormick Cup wins (tied for most in Ontario Rugby history). New and experienced players are always welcome.

    Find out more about Balmy Beach Rugby Club.

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

    GET FIT MONTH: TIPS FROM YORKSHIRE CCC & NORTHERN DIAMONDS PLAYERS

    United Kingdom

    Yorkshire County Cricket Club and Northern Diamonds stars share their top tips to staying fit this Get Fit Month with Kukri Sports.

    Gain valuable insights from experienced players including Dawid Malan, Shan Masood, and Lauren Winfield-Hill as we explore essential fitness elements: consistency, sleep, nutrition, and mindset, highlighting their importance in your fitness journey.

    Nutrition: fuelling your body for success

    Nutrition plays a vital role in athletic performance. A well-balanced diet ensures sustained energy levels necessary for games, competitions and workouts, and also allows you to recover properly after exercise.

    Dawid Malan insisted that maintaining a healthy diet and staying active have been vital for peak performance in his career. “”Trying to eat as healthy as you can and getting into the gym as often as you can, just staying active at every opportunity is crucial.”

    Malan’s teammate, Shan Masood, highlighted the significance of balance in nutrition. “Nutrition has been one of the biggest changes in my life,” he explained. “Everyone needs a balance; you can’t just go one way 100% and not eat something that you like.

    “I try to keep an 80-20 rule, I eat well 80% of the time and then 20% I allow myself to cheat a bit and enjoy myself.”

    Sleep: maximising recovery and performance

    Quality sleep is essential for athletes to recover and perform at their best, playing a key role in metabolism, the growth and repair of muscle tissues.

    Masood underscored the importance of adequate rest for all athletes. “I would say sleep is the number one factor in fitness,” he states. “As you get older, you realise how important that is in terms of performance.”

    “Getting a good night sleep is so underrated, in terms of how you feel and how you attack the next day too,” said Lauren Winfield-Hill.

    Mindset: cultivating mental resilience

    A strong mindset is essential for overcoming challenges and staying focused on fitness goals. Mindset plays a critical role in determining your level of motivation and commitment, providing you with the mental strength to push through challenges, maintain consistency and stay on track towards your goals.

    Winfield-Hill stressed the importance of mindset in achieving success. “Don’t rely on motivation, rely on a good plan and discipline. I think motivation is like you are depending on factors, for me it’s about prioritising and getting it done.

    “It’s important to have a plan, such as planning your week out with different exercises on certain days, rather than relying on that moment or feeling that you want to do it.”

    Embarking on a fitness journey might seem intimidating, yet with the guidance of expert tips from these leading professionals, you can progress towards your goals, one step at a time.

    Player profiles:

    Dawid Malan: Renowned as a standout figure in international cricket, Dawid Malan has left an indelible mark on the sport with his exceptional batting prowess, including being ranked as the world’s number one T20 batter in September 2020. Find out more about Malan here.

    Shan Masood: Currently serving as Pakistan’s Test Captain, Shan Masood brings invaluable experience to Yorkshire CCC, delivering pivotal runs and steering them to significant victories over recent years. Find out more about Masood here.

    Lauren Winfield-Hill: Lauren Winfield-Hill, a standout in English cricket, has achieved notable victories in the Hundred and the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy. With over 100 appearances for England and a record of championship wins, she remains a formidable force in the sport. Find out more about Winfield-Hill here.

    Upcoming Action

    Both teams are geared up for T20 action in their new shirts, with Yorkshire CCC starting their campaign against Worcestershire on May 30, and Northern Diamonds against Lancashire Thunder on May 19 in the Charlotte Edwards Cup.

    Take a closer look at the new Yorkshire CCC and Northern Diamonds T20 shirts.  

    Kukri have been partnered with Yorkshire CCC for two years as the club’s official kit and training wear supplier.

    We extend our best wishes to both teams for a successful cricket season. Find out more about Yorkshire CCC here.

    Stay Connected

    For more information on our Get Fit Month campaign, click here.

    For exclusive content and updates, follow us on social media:

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    Jo Simpson appointed to Kukri Sports Global Board

    Kukri Sports has today announced the appointment of Jo Simpson FCCA to their Global Board.

    Jo is the current Commercial Director at the University of Nottingham, a Russell Group university and one of the top 100 universities in the world.  She brings a wealth of experience across the private and public sectors to Kukri.

    Through her illustrious career Jo has led outstanding commercial growth within all organisations she has worked for.  A Fellow of the Chartered  Certified Accountants she has held multiple Finance Director roles across a range of public and private sector organisations including Next and Vickers plc.

    Across the sporting world she has had huge impact, using her commercial acumen and financial skillset to create a legacy of success. In key roles as Finance Director at Youth Sport Trust and Finance Chair and Vice Chair of the Board at British Wheelchair Basketball she brought new levels of financial growth and stability. As Commercial Director at Youth Sport Direct, British Triathlon and Loughborough University she led unprecedented levels of innovation, development and success.

    She continues to have a global impact on sport as a member of the Board of Directors at SIS Pitches, one of the world’s leading sports surface suppliers, and as a Board member with Sport England’s Sport Council Trading Company. 

    Kukri Group CEO Andrew Ronnie said “Jo combines commercial success across complex global organisations both in the public and private sector with a passion for developing the very best from the teams she works with. Her value led approach, commercial and financial aptitude and far-reaching impact across the sporting world means we are extremely proud to have Jo join the board.

    “We have ambitious plans for growth and this appointment is a fundamental part of our long-term strategy to be a world leader in team sport apparel and build a global brand”. 

    Jo Simpson said “I am thrilled to be joining the Kukri Sports Global Board. Their values and the quality of products they produce means that Kukri is ideally placed to further their growth and impact globally. I am excited to be part of the next steps of the journey of this historic brand as they continue on their mission to empower athletes worldwide”.

    Kukri Sports Announces New Five-Year Partnership with Nottingham High School

    United Kingdom

    Kukri Sports is delighted to announce a new partnership agreement with Nottingham High School, in a five-year collaboration as the official kit partner.

    This partnership signifies a shared commitment to excellence in Sports and Education. Nottingham High School, renowned for its dedication to nurturing academic and sporting talents, has chosen Kukri as its exclusive supplier of sports kits, further enhancing the school’s sporting identity and performance.

    Under this new partnership, Kukri will provide Nottingham High School with bespoke, high-quality sportswear tailored to the school’s specific requirements. From rugby and netball to hockey and cricket, Kukri will equip Nottingham High School’s athletes with cutting-edge sportswear, designed to maximize performance and instil a sense of pride on and off the field.

    “We are thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Nottingham High School,” said Josh Beal Sales Director at Kukri Sports. “As a company deeply committed to supporting education sports and fostering sporting talent, we are honoured to partner with such a prestigious institution. Together, we aim to empower Nottingham High School’s athletes to reach their full potential and achieve success both on and off the field.”

    Richard Alexander OLY, Assistant Head, Co-Curricular Nottingham High School. “The partnership between Kukri Sports and Nottingham High School reflects a shared vision of promoting excellence, participation, teamwork, and respect within the diverse school community. Both parties are excited about the opportunities this collaboration will bring and are committed to supporting the development of young athletes into a lifelong relationship with sport and fitness.“

    The partnership between Kukri and Nottingham High School reflects a shared vision of promoting Sporting wellbeing, athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship within the school community. Both parties are excited about the opportunities this collaboration will bring and are committed to supporting the development of young athletes into a lifelong relationship with sport.

    About Nottingham High School

    With over 500 years of history Nottingham High School is a prestigious independent, known for its academic excellence and rich tradition of sporting achievement. Committed to providing a holistic education, Nottingham High School offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular opportunities to its students – Find out more.

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