New national rugby strip by Turtles

Cook Islands rugby warriors preparing for national duty will feel the strength and power that comes with pulling on the national jersey.

The national under 19 rugby squad have tasted success in their brand new kit sponsored by Turtles Sportswear at the FORU tournament in Samoa where they are set to secure a spot in the under 20 rugby World Cup in the next two years.

Chris McKinley of Turtles Sportswear has confirmed that his company has made a commitment to support and sponsor Cook Islands Rugby Union over the next three years to the tune of $90,000.

This includes selling CIRU branded gear and kitting out the national teams plus local rugby referees and officials.

McKinley says that renowned sports clothing manufacturer Samurai Sportswear has also come on board to help and support Turtles Sportswear in providing top notch gear for national rugby teams.

Craig Lawson of Samurai Sportswear is reportedly rapt with the local under 19 squad’s performance at the FORU tournament in Samoa where the team edged out their toughest pool opponent Papua New Guinea 15-14 and are expected to continue their good form.

It’s not all paperwork though for McKinley who along with staff member Mahai Daniel designed the new look under 19 national squad uniform.

The kit is in the Cook Islands green, white and gold colours and adorned with traditional ‘tattoo’ motifs.

McKinley and Daniel sought the assistance of local tattoo artists and brothers Clive and Boy Nicholas of Polynesia Tattoos for the designs on the playing gear.

The design chosen for the jerseys was the arrowhead motif which is the sign of the warrior accompanied by the wave motif –together they represent the strength and power of the Cook Islands rugby players.

New rugby supporters’ apparel will soon be launched by Turtles Sportswear so local rugby enthusiasts can stand out in the crowd when cheering on our boys.