31/10/202528/10/2025

This Black History Month, Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate athletes who inspire, empower and redefine what excellence looks like.

One such athlete is Samantha (Sammy) Wallace-Joseph, goal shooter for Loughborough Lightning.

In her debut season with Lightning, Sammy scored 272 goals, helping the team reach their fifth consecutive grand final and finishing as the club’s top scorer.

Kukri is proud to provide Loughborough Lightning’s official playing and training wear, supporting Sammy and the team both on and off the court.

From Grassroots to the Global Stage

Sammy’s netball journey began at school, nurtured by mentors who recognised her talent early.

“I first started playing netball at school level when I was six years old. A teacher saw potential and supported my every step of the way,” she recalls.

Her dedication led her to her first senior national team call-up at just 14 years old, and eventually to a professional career in Australia before returning to the UK with Lightning.

Her career has been defined not only by talent but also by resilience. She has overcome being far from home, personal loss and injury.

“Despite the challenges, I could always hear my Dad’s voice reminding me, ‘Don’t give up.’ Those words became my source of strength and motivation through the hardest times.”

Life with Loughborough Lightning

Since joining Lightning, Sammy has become a key player and role model.

Despite missing the start to the 2025 Netball Super League season due to surgery, she regained her rhythm and was recognised as ‘Fans’ Player of the Year’.

“I truly enjoyed interacting with the fans. Those sweaty post-game cuddles brought me so much more comfort and joy. Knowing I can be someone they look up to and aspire to be like means the world to me.”

Reflecting on the season, she adds “Although I wasn’t pleased with my shooting percentage, I was grateful to pull on a Loughborough Lightning dress and play in front of such a supportive crowd every week.”

Looking ahead, Sammy’s focus is on staying healthy and helping Lightning go one step further. “My hopes for the 2026 season are simple – to stay healthy and injury-free.

“For my team, I hope we continue to trust the process and take things one step at a time.”

Celebrating Black Glory

For Sammy, Black History Month is about recognising achievement, resilience and excellence within the black community, not just struggles.

“We often talk about black history but rarely about black glory,” she explains.

“By promoting education and awareness, other cultures can gain a deeper understanding of both the past and present moments that have shaped our society.

“This understanding helps build empathy, fight racism and strengthen our grasp of identity and diversity.

“Black History Month isn’t just about celebrating triumphs – it’s about recognising challenges, honouring resilience and appreciating success.”

Kukri’s Commitment Beyond Black History Month

As the official partner of Loughborough Lightning, Kukri is proud to support athletes and individuals like Sammy, championing their achievements and celebrating the inspiration they bring both on and off the court.

While Black History Month is an important moment to highlight these stories, Kukri’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion continues all year round – helping to drive change, encourage participation and celebrate representation.

To learn more about our support, visit here.