Tag: Ireland

14/01/202514/01/2025

Kukri Sports has firmly established itself as a leader in Northern Irish netball, now proudly partnered with 17 out of 31 registered clubs in Northern Ireland, driving the success and growth of the sport across the region.

Kukri’s influence in Northern Irish netball goes beyond supplying training and matchday kits. We are a trusted partner to clubs ranging from grassroots to elite level, as well as various schools and universities in the region, offering comprehensive support to ensure teams excel on and off the court.

Comprehensive support for clubs at every level

At Kukri, we understand that every club has its own identity, which is why we offer fully customisable kits tailored to each team’s needs. From unique designs that represent the spirit of each club, to the latest fabric technology for elite performance, we ensure that all club’s athletes feel both confident and supported on and off the court.

This is highlighted through our long-term partnership with Netball Northern Ireland, where Kukri are the official kit supplier for representative teams and has recently become the title partner for the Netball NI Premier League.

A growing presence across Ireland

Our growing presence in Northern Ireland highlights our commitment to supporting athletes at all levels, with strong partnerships in netball, volleyball, hockey, and rugby.

Our Northern Irish netball partners include:

Fuelling partner growth and success

Through our partnerships, local clubs in Northern Ireland have seen their teams grow and achieve success on and off the court. An example of this is Larne Netball Club, who have recently launched a second’s team and started a junior section that enables more players to participate.

“We’re not just about providing kit – we’re about supporting netball clubs every step of the way, said Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI and ROI. “With our growing presence across Northern Ireland, our partnerships are built on understanding the unique needs of each club and the demands of the game.

“We’re committed to ensuring that clubs at all levels have the tools and support they need to focus on what matters most: performing at their best on the court and driving the continued growth of netball across the region.”

Speaking on the partnership, Betty Wilson, club coach at Larne Netball Club, said “Kukri’s support has been invaluable, from providing samples, to updates and solutions to any issues. The quality and service have been exceptional.”

“Working with Kukri on our club dresses and club shop is always a smooth and enjoyable process,” said Fionnuala Toner of Belfast Ladies Netball Club, who have been crowned Premier League champions for the last two consecutive seasons.

“The design team are a huge help in making the process as efficient and seamless as possible, and the quality of the dresses are always great.”

Kukri Sports Netball Ambassador

Kukri have also recently welcomed Netball Northern Ireland star Lauren Walshe as their new netball ambassador.

Lauren, who becomes Kukri’s first ambassador in the region, highlights the brand’s commitment to supporting athletes on and off the court.

Get in touch

Are you looking to design your own netball kit? Get in touch.

17/12/202417/12/2024

Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce Northern Ireland Warriors goalkeeper, Lauren Walshe, as their newest brand ambassador.

Known for her athletic prowess, leadership and dedication to the sport, Lauren perfectly embodies the values of Kukri Sports: passion, resilience and commitment.

Having recently extended their partnership as official long-term kit supplier for Netball Northern Ireland, Kukri is committed to supporting netball, fostering growth and providing high-quality and performance-driven sportswear that empowers athletes to excel on and off the court at all levels.

“I am excited to be named as a brand ambassador for Kukri Sports,” Lauren shared.

“It is a brand I have worn for a while now; it has been our Netball Northern Ireland team and Belfast Ladies team sponsor for some years. It’s my favourite sports brand to wear on court and I am enthusiastic to get started and show this brand off.”

Lauren’s journey in netball has been nothing short of inspiring. Having represented Northern Ireland on international stages, including this year’s Celtic Cup, she has competed against world-class teams and developed lifelong friendships.

“Playing netball from a young age has shaped who I am today. It has provided me with confidence and built my self-esteem in so many ways.

“The girls I’ve met along the way are some of my best friends, and I’ll always be thankful for the sport that allowed me to meet these girls.”

Beyond her achievements on the court, Lauren was recently named second runner-up in the Miss Northern Ireland 2024 competition. Now a passionate teacher, she juggles teaching a primary two class, with coaching two netball teams and playing for her country.

“There is a lot of joy and happiness in knowing you are helping and inspiring young children,” Lauren said.

“I love my job, and fortunately it allows me to help shape the younger generation, which is something I have always wanted to do. I think my love for the sport and my job helps to balance and enjoy it.”

Lauren’s exciting new partnership with Kukri Sports marks an exciting new chapter in her mission to promote netball and empower young athletes.

“Being part of the Kukri team is a great opportunity for me. With my busy lifestyle, Kukri can provide suitable attire for playing, training, coaching and even teaching too.

“I’m most excited to see all the exciting drops for the season and promote them to everyone. I want to create awareness of netball through Kukri’s support, and encourage more women and girls to play sports.”

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland at Kukri Sports, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Lauren Walshe as a brand ambassador. Her passion for netball, combined with her dedication to inspiring the next generation, aligns perfectly with Kukri’s mission. We are excited to work alongside her to promote netball and encourage participation across all levels of the sport, as well as further highlight our long-standing partnership with Netball Northern Ireland.”

Kukri Sports is delighted to welcome Lauren Walshe and looks forward to working with her to drive awareness and participation in netball, while providing her with additional exposure to inspire the next generation.

Learn more about Netball Northern Ireland

09/12/2024

Kukri Sports proudly celebrates its partnership with Pickleball Ireland, whose national team achieved historic success at the inaugural European Pickleball Championships.

Competing against 23 nations in Southampton on November 23-24, Team Ireland’s remarkable performance secured their place among Europe’s top ten, cementing their growing prominence in the sport.

The players showcased their skill and determination throughout to finish among the top 10 nations and deservedly earn recognition on the international stage.

Impressive Performances on the Court

Team Ireland delivered standout results in both the 19+ and 50+ categories:

• (Men’s Doubles 19+) – Adrian and Sam secured impressive group-stage wins before a narrow defeat to Finland.

• (Mixed Doubles 19+) – Francie and Bobby showed their talent to reach the quarter-finals, pushing eventual champions England in a spirited match.
• (Women’s Doubles 19+) – Francie and Izzy earned strong group-stage results, narrowly missing out against Belgium and Estonia.
• (Men’s Doubles 50+) – Gareth and Gavin & Heidi and George (Mixed Doubles 50+) also reached the quarter-finals, delivering exceptional performances against strong opponents.

A Milestone for Irish Pickleball

The Championships marked a decade since the sport was introduced in Ireland. Today, over 60 locations across Ireland host pickleball players, with an estimated 2,000 participants enjoying the sport weekly.

“This is a very important step for Pickleball Ireland, said John Fitzpatrick, Chairman of Pickleball Ireland.

“It reflects the inclusive nature of the sport, with representatives of all ages proudly playing for Ireland.

“Our team represented the whole of Ireland with exceptional spirit and talent,” Fitzpatrick added. “To see players of all ages competing at the highest level is a proud moment for us and the development of the sport.”

Kukri Sports Drives Success

Kukri Sports were proud to play a pivotal role in supporting the team’s journey. As the official kit supplier for Pickleball Ireland, we provided the training wear for the players to compete in, as well as a newly designed shirt that will proudly worn by all players in future competitions.

“The sponsorship has been invaluable,” said Fitzpatrick. “Kukri’s commitment, from design stunning team kits to providing vital support, has made a significant impact.

“We’re thrilled to see our players and supporters wearing these shirts with pride.”

Commenting on the partnership, Neil Patterson, Country Manager for NI and ROI, said “We were thrilled to support Pickleball Ireland in their incredible journey to the European Championships.

“Seeing the team train in the designs and compete on such a prestigious stage was fantastic to see, and we are committed to providing the highest-quality sportswear for their players to shine on the court in future competitions.”

As Team Ireland looks ahead, the momentum from the European Championships fuels their ambition.

With the continued support from Kukri and the passion of players nationwide, the future of pickleball in Ireland continues to shine bright.

Design your own sportswear

Are you looking for bespoke sportswear to give you an identity in your sport? Get in touch today to unleash your creativity and craft the perfect look for your team.

07/11/202406/11/2024

Months after their triumph, Cork Constitution’s seventh Energia All Ireland League (AIL) title still resonates deeply within the club’s storied history.

As an official partner of Kukri Sports, alongside many other ruby clubs in Ireland, the club has benefitted from high-quality support.

Winning the title at the Aviva Stadium in a dramatic showdown against Terenure College – despite being reduced to 14 men just 19 minutes into the game, highlighted their grit, determination and spirit of the squad.

The triumph capped a stellar season that also saw the J1 team win the Charity Cup and retain the Munster Senior Clubs Division 1 league, with a last-minute try securing the title.

For players, coaches and supporters, this success reaffirmed Cork Con’s legacy as one of Ireland’s most successful rugby institutions.

Reflecting on a memorable campaign, team captain David Hyland shared. “It’s an honour. Away wins against Terenure and Lansdowne gave us a lot of momentum during the season and helped us to secure a home semi-final.”

Head Coach Johnny Holland also expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment, describing it as ‘one of the most satisfying moments in my coaching career’, and adding, “Watching our players celebrating and enjoying themselves makes the job more worthwhile.”

“I’m confident that this group is capable of winning it again, but there’s a lot of quality in the league, and every team is expecting to win each week, which makes it a unique challenge.”

After four games, Cork Con sit in seventh place in the AIL with the season still young, and they’re determined to push toward the play-offs.

“Our goal as a team is to win the AIL, Munster Seconds League, Charity Cup for a second year in a row and the Munster Junior Cup,” Hyland said.

“We are confident we can achieve these goals, but remain very aware that it will take an even higher level of effort and commitment.”

A crucial part of this pursuit has been Kukri Sports’ support, proudly supporting their performances with high-quality sportswear.

“The Kukri gear has been excellent this year, all of our performance and match day needs have been looked after with kit that is comfortable and makes us feel proud when stepping out onto the pitch.”

Head Coach Holland echoed this sentiment. “The gear looks great and ensures that we’re together as a group when we’re going to and from matches especially.”

Kukri Sports’ NI and ROI Country Manager, Neil Patterson, also expressed pride in the club’s achievements. “We’re incredibly proud of Cork Constitution’s hard work to win their seventh AIL title, as well as their other team’s success.

“We are dedicated to providing the highest quality sportswear to support them on and off the pitch and are excited to be part of their success.”

With Kukri’s ongoing support, Cork Constitution is prepared to face whatever challenges lie ahead, driven by a hunger for continued success. This season promises excitement as Cork Con pushes forward – equipped, focused, and united in their pursuit of another historic season.

Want to find out how we can inspire your rugby team to success?

10/10/202410/10/2024

Kukri Sports is delighted to congratulate its long-standing partner, Royal Belfast Academical Institution (RBAI), on their record-breaking year of sporting achievements.

As a proud partner, Kukri collaborates with RBAI to create bespoke sportswear designs, ensuring that RBAI students can perform at their peak levels.

Rugby dominance

RBAI’s rugby teams had an outstanding season, defeating Ballymena Academy to secure back-to-back Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Cup and claim RBAI’s 34^th outright schools’ cup.

A great display saw the team claim back-to-back Medallion Shield titles, winning their 37^th medallion shield and surpassing Methodist College Belfast to become the most successful school in the competition. This outstanding achievement is a testament to the teams’ spirit, determination and hunger.

Hockey triumph

The school’s triumphs continued with RBAI’s hockey club being crowned champions of the John Minnis Burney Cup with a deserved 2-1 win over Banbridge Academy, ending a 20 year wait in front of a packed crowd.

In the McCullough Cup, the first XI finished joint top in the league stage after winning six of their seven league matches.

Cricket teams’ dominance

In Cricket, RBAI 1^st XI triumphed to win a record 13^th Ulster Schools’ Cup after a dominant 126 run victory. against Ballyclare High. The team also continued their dominance by winning the McCullough Cup for the 10th time in 11 years.

RBAI’s cricket talent shone across all age levels, with other achievements including:

• 2^nd XI – Winners of the Duke of Abercorn Cup
• U15 XI – Winners of Ulster Schools’ Plate
• U14 XI – Winners of Derriaghy Cup
• U13A – Winners of Mourne Cup
• U12 XI – Winners of Centenary Cup

Commenting on the school’s achievements and the partnership, a spokesperson from Royal Belfast Academical Institution, said “RBAI’s partnership with Kukri Sports continues to go from strength so strength. Their sportswear has been a consistent and reliable part of our teams’ success across multiple sports, including rugby, hockey and cricket.

“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.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership and breaking more records on the pitch.”

Neil Patterson, Country Manager for N.I. and R.OI., said “We are very proud to be a part of RBAI’s remarkable journey and success across multiple sports this year.

Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication of their students and staff, and it’s an honour to support them with sportswear that reflects their heritage and fuels their performances.”

Kukri’s broader presence in Ireland

Kukri has established itself as the leading sportswear supplier in the education sector across Ireland, partnering with numerous schools and universities to provide custom-designed sportswear tailored to the needs of developing athletes.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR SUPPORT IN IRELAND < https://www.kukrisports.com/uk/news/kukri-sports-in-ireland/ >

As RBAI continues to build on its strong sporting legacy, Kukri remains committed to supporting the school in its future endeavours, helping their athletes continue to push boundaries and set new records.

About RBAI

Royal Belfast Academical Institution is one of Northern Ireland’s most prestigious schools, known for its rich tradition of excellence in both academics and sport.

The school has a long-standing reputation for producing elite athletes across rugby, hockey and cricket, instilling values of teamwork, resilience and commitment.

Are you looking to upgrade your sportswear and unleash your greatness? Whatever your sport, we’ve got you covered.

25/06/202417/06/2024

Ahead of his highly-anticipated next fight against River Wilson-Bent, Kukri Sports caught up with boxing ambassador Kieran Molloy to delve into his training camp, maintaining his unbeaten streak and the importance of mental toughness.

Exciting boxing star and Kukri Sports ambassador, Kieran Molloy, continues to impress on the professional stage.

In April, Molloy extended his impressive unbeaten record to eight fights with a hard-fought victory against Mexican opponent Sergio Garcia Herrera on the ‘Coming of Age’ card in Rotherham.

Despite facing adversity for the first time in his professional career, Molloy showed remarkable resilience and determination to secure a narrow 76-75 points win.

Kieran is next in action in GBM’s Into the Fire in an action-packed night of boxing, starring in a welterweight contest against River Wilson-Bent on Saturday 29 June at Coventry’s Sky Dome Arena.

With his focus now firmly set on his next bout, the 25-year-old Irish fighter emphasises the importance of meticulous preparation in his success so far. “We train extremely hard to get into & stay in good shape all year round at Loughborough University.

“My confidence comes from preparation. If I know I’ve given everything and haven’t cut any corners, I’ll be mentally in a good place when it’s time to compete.”

Molloy also sheds light on his rigorous training schedule and the invaluable support network pushing him in the right direction.

“I’ve been fortunate to spar with former world champion David Avanesyan ahead of my fight,” he reveals. “Avanyesyan is also training for his own world title shot next month, so it’s been a fantastic learning experience for me.”

Describing a typical training week, Molloy details a blend of technical work, strength and conditioning, and strategic sparring sessions. “On Monday, Wednesday and Fridays they have been heavy sparring days, followed by interval sprints in the afternoon. Tuesday and Thursday tend to be more technical work in the mornings, followed by weights and conditioning in the afternoon.

“Diet and nutrition are obviously very important. I work with a fantastic nutritionist, Max Haskell, who has been helping me with my meal plans for training camps.”

Looking ahead to his upcoming fight, Molloy expresses his desire to showcase his full repertoire of skills. “I’d like to show a bit more of my boxing ability and when the openings come to let my hands go, I’ll take them.”

Everyone at Kukri wishes Kieran the best of luck ahead of his next fight on Saturday 29 June.

Follow the fight

Don’t miss out, watch Kieran’s fight live on GBM Sports’ YouTube channel, or alternatively purchase tickets by contacting @kieran_molloy_tickets on Instagram.

About Kieran Molloy

Molloy’s dedication and work ethic are rooted in his impressive amateur career.  Before turning professional, the Irish fighter amassed a remarkable record of 202 wins in 221 fights. This includes an impressive collection of accolades: 11x National Champion, 3x Irish Elite Champion, and an EU Bronze medallist.

Find out more about Kieran Molloy.

Browse the Kieran Molloy merchandise range.

Interested in becoming an ambassador?

03/04/202427/03/2024

Kukri Sports are thrilled to announce an extension to its successful partnership with Northern Ireland Volleyball, the National Governing Body for the sport. The renewed collaboration reinforces Kukri’s unwavering commitment to the development and growth of the sport across the region.

Northern Ireland Volleyball plays a pivotal role in nurturing the sport, from grassroots level to elite competition. Through the extended partnership Kukri will continue to provide playing kit and leisurewear for the Northern Ireland squads, to look the part both on and off the court.

“At Kukri Sports we are deeply passionate about supporting athletes and sports communities,” said Neil Patterson, Country Manager for Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland at Kukri Sports. “We are thrilled to extend our partnership with Northern Ireland Volleyball, an institution that shares our commitment to fostering talent, promoting inclusivity and driving excellence in the sport. Together, we will continue to elevate the sport and empower athletes across Northern Ireland.”

The partnership extension will see Kukri Sports working closely with Northern Ireland Volleyball to provide customized teamwear, training gear, and equipment solutions tailored to the specific needs of volleyball players and clubs throughout the region. By leveraging Kukri Sports’ expertise in sports apparel and equipment, Northern Ireland Volleyball aims to enhance the quality of resources available to its members and further advance the sport’s development.

Johnny McClenaghan, Treasurer NI Volleyball commented, “We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Kukri Sports. As we continue to develop our offering to our players, coaches and referees, the support and professionalism from Kukri has been second to none. The quality of the apparel and the timeliness deliveries has made a huge difference to how our squads operate and the online store has taken away a major headache from our team managers. We hope to continue to grow this partnership long into the future as we continue to grow the sport here in Northern Ireland.”

This partnership signifies a fusion of innovation and tradition on the volleyball court, aiming to enhance the overall sporting experience for Northern Ireland Volleyball players and fans alike. For more information on Northern Ireland Volleyball, please visit www.nivolleyball.com.  

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

29/02/202426/02/2024

Kukri Sports have been the official kit and merchandise supplier for Pegasus Hockey Club for 20 years, providing custom-designed uniforms, training wear and other essentials tailored to the specific needs of the clubs’ players, coaches and management.

For two-decades, over 5,000 kits have been meticulously crafted for peak performance and have inspired countless players on the pitch, some of which have gone on to triumph at international level. These kits have witnessed over 500 matches across various age levels, facilitating the performance of several teams from the first senior team to the juniors’ team.

As a proud partner, Kukri works closely with Pegasus Hockey Club to ensure that their sportswear meet the highest standards of quality and durability, enabling the players to excel on the pitch.

Developing international stars

Pegasus Hockey Club boasts a rich history as one of Northern Ireland’s most successful hockey clubs, consistently achieving success both domestically and internationally. With an impressive track record including multiple Irish Senior Cup and Irish Senior League victories, as well as triumphs in the EuroHockey Club Trophy, Pegasus Hockey Club stands as a symbol of excellence in the sport.

The club’s success extends beyond the field, with numerous players earning accolades at both national and international levels.

Among these players is Shirley McCay, Ireland’s most capped former international hockey player who represented her country at the Tokyo Olympics.

McCay, who recently received her MBE for her contributions to the sport, emphasised the pivotal role Kukri has played in the club’s journey.

“Our kit has been a massive part of our journey, the club itself is steeped in success and has had so much glory over the last two decades, and part of that has been down to how our kit looks and the comfort we get from it when playing which comes in tandem.

“The 20-year partnership with Kukri has been pretty special and long may it continue.”

Also commenting on the partnership, Michelle Rainey, Chair Person at Pegasus Hockey Club, said “It’s created a brand for the club. The kit identifies everybody and allows us all to feel aligned and connected, from the juniors all the way up to the 1s. The distinctive red kit is what we use in our narrative for team talks on game days, so it helps to bring that inclusion into things which is really important.

Commenting on the partnership, Colin Roden, Northern Ireland Sales Manager at Kukri Sports said “We are very proud to celebrate two decades of partnership with Pegasus Hockey Club. This milestone is a testament to our shared values of excellence, innovation and commitment to the sport of hockey.

“It’s crucial for us to nurture the strong connections we’ve cultivated over the last two decades. Our commitment lies in maintaining a local presence, enabling us to swiftly attend meetings and readily offer samples, further solidifying our bond with partners and clients alike.”

More than a sportswear provider

Kukri remains dedicated to providing the highest quality sportswear for Pegasus Hockey Club, ensuring designs enhance the team’s unique identity and traditions.

The two organisations will continue to strive in driving innovation, promoting inclusivity, and inspiring the next generation of hockey players.

Find out more about our partners.

About Pegasus Hockey Club

Established in 1961, Pegasus Hockey Club has remained a cornerstone of Northern Ireland’s hockey community, offering players of all ages and abilities the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive and supportive environment.

Find out more about Pegasus Hockey Club.