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Athletes from Kukri partner programmes UBC Women’s Rugby and Loughborough Lighting played a significant role at this year’s World Cup, with several helping their nations reach the final.
Ten current and former players represented Canada and England on the biggest stage, including five from UBC Women’s Rugby representing Canada – Florence Symonds, Rachel Smith, Shoshanah Seumanutafa, Mikiela Nelson and Gillian Boag, while UBC alumni Mackenzie Carson played for England.
Four Loughborough Lightning players also represented England, including Emily Scarratt, Sadia Kabeya, Lilli Ives Campion and Helena Rowland, while 21 other players from Lightning represented four other countries.
All players involved made their mark, including the ten across both nations who reached the final between England and Canada, which saw the Red Roses triumph for the first time since 2014.
For Kukri, the tournament reflected the progress being made across domestic programmes and the women’s game, as athletes developed within supportive environments earned national team selection and contributed throughout the competition.
Pride of Competing at the World Cup
For many athletes, being part of the tournament was a career highlight that they have worked tirelessly for, as UBC’s Rachel Smith points out.
“As an athlete, it felt like a dream come true to be part of a World Cup team. It was emotional because we were so proud of everything we had already achieved, and we got to share that with so much of our family being there.”
Sadia Kabeya, Loughborough Lightning flanker, also described her experience representing her nation at a home World Cup.
“It was amazing. Representing my country was one of the proudest moments of my career,” she explained.
“Reaching the final and feeling that excitement so close to home was incredible.”
Experiencing the Tournament
The players were also struck by the growing crowds, increased coverage and the sense that women’s rugby is reaching a wider audience.
“The crowds were unreal and every week they grew in size. Hearing my family back home about how many people were talking about our team and seeing us on every screen was unreal,” Smith said.
Kabeya added, “Rugby is a sport that is welcoming and has space for all, whether that’s on or off the pitch.
“With the game growing so publicly, hopefully more people can see themselves in the sport.”
Supporting the Domestic Game
Alongside their international achievements, the players’ journeys reflect the strength of the domestic programmes that helped develop them.
Kukri have supported UBC Women’s Rugby for over a decade, as well as their long-standing partnership with Loughborough Lightning, providing tailored match kit and training wear that inspires athletes to perform.
“It’s very well-rounded rugby kit. It’s comfortable, durable and survives some pretty chaotic training sessions and games,” Smith said.
“Kukri emphasizes the ‘feel good, play good’ mantra.”
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on their experience, both Smith and Kabeya hope their journeys inspire the next generation of female athletes.
“My advice to young players would be to work hard, trust your process, and surround yourself with supportive people,” said Kabeya.
“Rugby is a sport for everyone, and there’s space for anyone who wants to get involved.”
Smith added, “What excites me most is seeing young girls grow up and watching women at the top of the sport.
“Dreaming big now feels realistic and tangible.”
With partnerships like UBC and Loughborough Lightning, supported by Kukri, these pathways continue to grow, helping athletes develop, compete, and inspire the future of women’s rugby.
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