Kane Russell Joins Team Kookaburra

Kookaburra and Black Sticks star Kane Russell today announced a partnership that will see Russell use Kookaburra Hockey equipment around the world.

Russell will use the Origin range when playing for the Black Sticks in the FIH Pro League and other international play, during club duties for Southern Hockey in Otago or in his role as an international player for Belgium’s Royal Leopold Hockey Club in the Euro Hockey League.

The Origin stick has been picked by Russell with the drag-flick in mind, his signature move:

“I really like the Kookaburra sticks, I think they have a nice feel, and for me they have a great drag flick stick that has a nice balance point  and good shape,” Russell said.

Just turned 27, Russell is coming into the prime of his career after making his Black Stick debut as a 19 year old against South Korea in 2012.

It was an auspicious debut, scoring a goal, something he has made a habit of in his international career.

Off the back of his first Olympics in 2016, Russell starred in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, leading New Zealand’s scoring with 6 goals as they took the silver medal.  

He is now spearheading New Zealand’s campaign in the inaugural Pro League.

And while Russell will miss the Pro League clash with Australia on Anzac Day he is expected to be back for the June 4 clash away to the Netherlands.    

In addition to Russell, Kookaburra also have Men’s Black Sticks Players Blair Tarrant, Cory Bennett and Dane Lett. Also Women’s Black Sticks players Amy Robinson, Deanna Ritchie and Brooke Roberts are Kookaburra brand ambassadors.