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Loughborough Lightning Strikes Twice: Reflecting on Back-to-Back Netball Super League Glory

United Kingdom

The roar of the crowd at Resorts World Arena in Birmingham has faded, but the memory of Lightning’s dominant victory still resonates deeply.

In their fourth straight Grand Final, Lightning defeated four-time champions Manchester Thunder with a dominant 70-54 win to make club history and be crowned Netball Super League champions for the second consecutive season.

Their exceptional teamwork, quality, and the support of Kukri Sports’ cutting-edge netball dresses played a crucial role in a remarkable season, marking the first time a team has won consecutive titles since Surrey Storm in 2015 and 2016.

The partnership with Kukri Sports provides all players with custom-designed Netball dresses that aim to provide optimum performance and comfort during intense matches.

Picture credit: Tara St Clair

The advanced fabric technology and ergonomic design allows players to move with agility and confidence, empowering players to reach their full potential on and off the court.

Bella Bayliss, centre and wing attack for Loughborough Lightning said, “Going back-to-back is a testament to the incredible staff and team that have created such a formidable culture and environment where everybody can thrive.

“This team is full of world class players, so there was never any doubt from us that we were capable of going back-to-back.”

Bayliss, who signed for Loughborough Lightning ahead of the 2023 NSL season, added “The support we receive here is greater than anything I’ve ever been a part of. We have incredible access to the best facilities and practitioners who enable us to perform at our best.

“Our dresses from Kukri also help all the players. Comfort is a massive factor in our performances, and the dresses are breathable which allows lots of movement and allows us to be agile in key moments.

“I have never felt uncomfortable when wearing the dress which is very important to me.”

Loughborough Lightning’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, innovation, and the right support. As they celebrate their consecutive titles, Kukri looks forward to continuing to provide them with high-quality netball dresses and training wear ahead of the relaunched 2024/25 Netball Super League season.

Kukri would also like to congratulate its other Netball partner, Severn Stars on finishing fourth in this season’s competition. Despite narrowly missing out on Bronze to London Pulse, the Finals Day debutants played with quality, fight and courage to cap off an incredible season both on and off the court.

About Loughborough Lightning

Loughborough Lightning is the number one Netball Super League side in the East Midlands and has been competing in the Netball Super League since its inception eighteen years ago.

Lightning have made it to the final in five of the last six seasons, and were crowned Netball Super League champions in 2021, 2023 and 2024.

Looking for a new sportswear provider?

Kukri is a leading global sportswear manufacturer, providing bespoke teamwear for a wide range of sports. With a focus on quality and performance, we are committed to supporting athletes in achieving their best.

CELEBRATING THRILLING SEASONS FOR OUR NETBALL SUPER LEAGUE PARTNERS

United Kingdom

Kukri Sports is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of its two partners, Loughborough Lightning and Severn Stars, on reaching this season’s highly-anticipated Netball Super League Grand Final.

As the official competition and leisurewear provider for both teams, Kukri have been a dedicated partner for both teams throughout their journeys. We provide high-performance dresses designed for comfort, agility and peak performance on the court.

Both teams have displayed exceptional talent and unwavering determination throughout the season.

Seasons overview

Severn Stars sealed their place in a first-ever Netball Super League semi-final following a pulsating 61-56 away win at Leeds Rhinos, with their resilience and talent on display throughout.

Following an all-Kukri showdown in the final league game of the season, Lightning’s 72-60 win over Severn Stars confirmed a home semi-final against London Pulse. Meanwhile, Severn Stars face Manchester Thunder in their semi-final, with both matches taking place on 29 June.

The Grand Final will take place at Resorts World Arena, Birmingham, on 29 June, with the top four teams coming together for one final day to decide the placings for this season. Following a third place play off, the best two teams will go head-to-head in the final to determine this year’s champions.

Our support

Kukri is proud to partner with both teams, facilitating their performances with high-quality netball dresses that have played a role in their incredible performances on the court.

These dresses are meticulously crafted with cutting-edge technology to empower the players and unleash their full potential.

By combining a sleek design with performance-enhancing technology, our netball dresses provide Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning with the confidence and freedom of movement they need to dominate the court.

Reflecting on a fantastic season and how Kukri provides support, Gabby Marshall, captain at Severn Stars, said “I am so proud of the team for making the finals, it’s been a huge effort from everyone involved.

Taken during the preseason game between Severn Stars and Celtic Dragons at University of Worcester Arena, Worcester, England on 4th February 2024

“We have had a brilliant season and that has been helped through our partnership with Kukri. We all absolutely love our playing dresses – they are so comfortable which allows us to easily focus on our jobs on the court!

“We are all so excited to represent Severn Stars over the finals and look to continue making history for this fantastic club.”

Loughborough Lightning captain, Nat Panagarry, who recently made her landmark 150th appearance, expressed her delight at the team making their fourth consecutive Grand Final.

“Really proud of the group for securing a home semi-final this Saturday. We never take that for granted as players & we’re enjoying the buzz around the club going into Finals.

We know Pulse are an incredible side with world-class players & we’ve been working hard as a group this week to make sure we are prepared. I know it will be an amazing game & we can’t wait to put out a good team performance in front of our home fans. See you on Saturday. Ready for battle Lightning fans!!”

Taken during the Netball Super League match between Loughborough Lightning and Leeds Rhinos at the Sir David Wallace Arena, Loughborough, England on 16th March 2024

Commenting on the success of both teams, Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports, states “We are incredibly proud of Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning for their achievements this season. Their success reflects their hard work and our commitment to providing them with the best support possible to thrive on and off the court. We wish them the very best in the finals.”

Images Credit: Tara St Clair

Looking ahead to the finals

As the Netball Super League Finals Day approaches, Kukri is exited to witness the culmination of a season filled with dedication. We are confident that both Severn Stars and Loughborough Lightning will continue to inspire with their exceptional talent and sportsmanship.

Kukri wishes both teams the very best of luck ahead of Finals Day.

Find out more about Severn Stars

Find out more about Loughborough Lightning

How to watch

You can watch the action unfold on Sky Sports’ official YouTube account, or by alternatively purchasing tickets from the following link here.

Get in touch

At Kukri Sports we deliver superior sportswear and exceptional service, driven by a deep understanding of the athlete journey from grassroots to performance sport.

Get in touch today to learn how Kukri Sports can support you in your journey.

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.

    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.

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    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.

    Kukri Sports announces 3 prestigious school partnership extensions

    United Kingdom

    As a dedicated provider of sportswear for leading educational institutions globally, Kukri is delighted to announce its continuation of three more key partnerships. Following over a decade of collaboration with each of Bishop Stortford College, Reigate Grammar School and Kings College School Wimbledon, Kukri is set to renew these valued associations through long-term contracts.

    The extensions include a 10-year partnership extension with Bishop Stortford College, a 5-year commitment with Reigate Grammar School, and an additional 5-year collaboration with Kings College School Wimbledon.

    With a history of over a decade of partnership, Kukri Sports has become an integral part of the fabric of these institutions, reflecting their commitment to excellence and shared values. Through these renewals, Kukri reaffirms its dedication to supporting the sporting endeavours of schools and nurturing the next generation of athletes.

    Russell McCluskey – Director of Sport, Kings College School Wimbledon

    “It has been a pleasure working with everyone at Kukri as our sports supplier here at King’s. Whether it be the ease of communication, the quality of the kit for both pupils and staff, or the efficiency of the turnaround at those crucial times of the school year, we have neem delighted with the service.”

    Evan Stewart – Director of Sport at Bishop Stortford College

    “One of our key ambitions at the College, is that all pupils are happy to be engaged in meaningful physical activity, and enjoy all aspects of sport, health, and fitness. Our partnership with Kukri supports us in delivering this ambition, by providing bespoke kit for pupils, so they look and feel comfortable when training and representing the College in matches.”

    George Browning – Director of Sport at Reigate Grammar School

    “RGS and Kukri have a long-standing relationship which we are delighted to have recently extended.  Our students will continue to benefit from high quality sports kit for years to come from a provider that is supportive of what we are trying to achieve as a school”. 

    The partnerships are another example of Kukri’s standing and commitment to providing market leading products and services to education providers who prioritize excellence in academics and sport.

    We are delighted to continue our partnerships with these three elite education providers. All three share our commitment to excellence, and we are proud to support their sporting activities by providing high-quality, bespoke-designed teamwear,” said Josh Beal, Sales Director at Kukri Sports. “The extensions are a testament to the strong relationships we have built over the years and our dedication to meeting the unique needs of each school’s sporting community.”

    The partnership announcements come at an exciting time for the business as we look forward to another exciting year, which will include some fantastic sporting events featuring our partners, including the commencement of the 2024 cricket season, featuring both Somerset CCC and Yorkshire CCC, the prestigious Hong Kong Sevens competition and the Netball Super League, featuring reigning champions Loughborough Lightning and Severn Stars, plus much more.

    Follow us on our social channels to keep up to date with the latest news from Kukri Sports.

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

    Learn more about the schools:

    https://www.kcs.org.uk/
    https://www.bishopsstortfordcollege.org/
    https://www.reigategrammar.org/

    PROMOTING A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

    United Kingdom

    Kukri Sports is thrilled to unveil its latest campaign, Get Fit month. Set to unfold throughout April to coincide with lighter nights and better weather, this initiative aims to ignite a passion for exercise and shine a spotlight on the many benefits of a healthier lifestyle.

    As a leading provider of sportswear that empowers athletes worldwide, we are excited to bring you an entire month of content dedicated to providing tips, advice, and inspiration directly from our professional partners who embody the spirit of dedication and perseverance, alongside highlighting the products that bring out the best in our athletes, wherever you are on your fitness journey.

    Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and motivation you need to reach new heights in your personal fitness goals. From workout inspiration, nutrition tips, injury prevention and mental resilience, we’ve got you covered.

    Kukri continues to champion a healthy and active lifestyle on a daily basis by:

    Providing Quality Sportswear

    Our high-quality sportswear is meticulously engineered for comfort and durability, empowering athletes to move with confidence and ease during workouts and sporting activities.

    Innovative Designs

    With a strong focus on innovation, we continually develop cutting-edge designs that blend style with functionality, ensuring that individuals look and feel their best while staying active and participating in their sport.

    Supporting further initiatives

    We are committed to fuelling athletes’ success beyond providing sportswear, aiming to contribute to their holistic development by providing financial support for a wide range of initiatives.

    “We firmly believe that a healthy lifestyle is fundamental to overall well-being, and at Kukri Sports, we are committed to empowering individuals to lead happier, healthier lives.”Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports.

    Follow us throughout April as we showcase expert advice from professionals and give an insight into our athletes’ training routines. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just beginning your fitness journey, join us on this exciting move towards a healthier, more active tomorrow.

    For more information and to stay updated on “Get Fit Month” events and activities, visit the news section of our website and follow us on social media.

    RISING BOXING STAR EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH KUKRI SPORTS

    Ireland | United Kingdom

    Kukri Sports is thrilled to announce the extension of its partnership with rising Irish boxing star, Kieran Molloy.

    The new agreement solidifies our commitment to supporting Kieran in his development, and highlights our dedication to supporting talented athletes on their journey to greatness.

    Kieran, a professional boxer from Galway, Ireland, has emerged as one of the most promising talents in the world of boxing. With an impressive record of victories under his belt, including notable wins in national and international competitions, Molloy continues to capture the attention of boxing fans with his exceptional skill and exciting in-ring performances.

    The 25-year-old will be hoping to build on his impressive record after pushing his slate to 7-0 as a professional with a round one technical knockout victory over Daniel Sostre on his U.S. debut in Boston.

    “I am delighted to be extending my partnership with Kukri Sports”, said Kieran Molloy.

    “They continue to provide me with unparalleled quality Boxing sportswear and embody the values of passion, ambition, professionalism and inclusivity.

    These attributes mirror my own version for my future in Boxing, a vision where hard work, attention to detail, dedication and teamwork will lead me to No.1 in the world.”

    As part of the extended partnership, Kukri will continue to provide Molloy with high-quality training and fight wear tailored to enhance his performance.

    Kukri also recently launched the official Kieran Molloy Range, which includes t-shirts, hoodies and sweatshirts, with each piece designed to embody the tenacity and determination that defines Kieran.

    Shop the Kieran Molloy merchandise range.

    “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Kieran Molloy,” said Andrew Ronnie, Group CEO at Kukri Sports. “He exemplifies the dedication, talent, and passion that we admire in athletes, and we are proud to support him on his journey to becoming a boxing superstar.

    The launch of the Kieran Molloy merchandise range further strengthens our commitment to providing his fans with innovative and stylish sportswear, whilst also supporting him throughout his exciting journey.”

    Kieran, who recently signed a deal with GBM Sports, will next feature on 20 April at the Magna Centre in Rotherham.

    For more information about Kieran, click here.

    Follow Kieran on social media: