RFU unveil new look kit
Rob Vickerman (England Sevens), Katy McLean (England Women), Michaela Staniford (England Sevens) Chris Robshaw (England)
Canterbury and the Rugby Football Union today unveiled the new England Rugby home and change kits, which will be worn by England’s Men and Rob Vickerman (England Sevens), Katy McLean (England Women), Michaela Staniford (England Sevens) Chris Robshaw (England)
Women’s teams in both XVs and Sevens international programmes this season. Revealed at Drybrook RFC in Gloucestershire, a club that embodies community rugby, the new kit marks the beginning of a four-year partnership with the RFU.
Combining the traditional styling that has been the mark of England Rugby since 1871, together with the technical construction that Canterbury is known for, the new home shirt provides a classic look that can withstand the very toughest of tackles.
The shirt demonstrates a ‘back-to-basics’ feel with an all-white design, complete with the iconic red rose emblem applied to the chest. To enhance the traditional look, the kit also features midnight blue socks, which return by popular demand for the first time since England’s summer tour of 2007.
England Head Coach Stuart Lancaster requested that Canterbury’s inaugural England collection include an exclusive piece for England Senior Elite Players to represent the pride that comes from representing their country. To this end, the iconic purple presentation jacket, which was worn by England players during the 70s, 80s and early 90s, has returned.
The tradition of the presentation jacket informs the eye-catching new change kit, which is styled in regal purple with gold detailing, reinforcing England’s position as a member of rugby royalty.
Canterbury’s partnership with the RFU also includes new home and change kits for the England Sevens team, with an ultramodern reworking of the red rose emblem to allude to the traditions of England Rugby dating back to 1871, whilst also looking ahead to the growing popularity and bright future of the shortened game.
The shirt represents the dreams not just of those who wear it but the millions who support England. This is reflected on the inside of the sleeve of the Seniors, Women’s and Sevens shirts with the slogan ENGLANDCONNECTED, acting as a reminder of the rugby family.
To mark the unveiling of the new kit, and its partnership with the RFU, Canterbury has also launched its ‘England Is All’ campaign, which celebrates the unity of England players, coaches, volunteers, the rugby family and fans. The campaign features a series of iconic images by world renowned English photographer David Bailey.
Canterbury Chief Executive Officer Chris Stephenson, said:
“Canterbury as a brand is synonymous with the sport of rugby, and we are proud to partner with the RFU and the birthplace of the game. This is a kit which fuses a traditional aesthetic with a construction made for the rigours of the game in the 21st century, and we’re confident that fans and players alike will be delighted with the results.”
Sophie Goldschmidt, Chief Commercial Officer, RFU, commented: “We want to put clubs at the heart of the game, which is why for the first time we are launching the new kit at a grassroots rugby club. Drybrook was selected by demonstrating what rugby means to their community. The England jersey is a huge source of passion and pride for our players. The new designs look fantastic and bring to life the heritage and tradition that both brands share.”
Paul Mason, Chairman of Drybrook RFC said:
“Drybrook Rugby Club is absolutely delighted to have been chosen as the host venue for the Canterbury kit launch. It really is a dream come true to host an event of this magnitude and it is a great opportunity for the whole of the community to combine and celebrate. There have been some memorable occasions for Drybrook throughout the years but this day will surely become the most memorable of them all.”
The kit will be available in the ‘Test’ edition, built to the exact specifications of Elite squad players, the ever-popular ‘Pro’ replica jerseys, the ‘Classic’ design, for those who prefer the simplicity of a traditional, collared rugby shirt, and a jersey fitted specifically for women, meaning that all fans have a choice of shirt to cheer the team on in style.
A full range of training and lifestyle clothing, including England specific editions of Canterbury’s popular Uglies range, and the exclusive, limited edition 1871 collection, completes the o
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