The Blues Women’s Super Rugby Aupiki squad will be looking to create a dynasty after last season’s triumph.
Their squad for 2025 features nine new faces most notably World Cup winner and Sevens Olympic gold-medalist Portia Woodman-Wickliffe who contributes to the over 300 international caps amongst the squad.
There’s no shortage of homegrown talent either with 22 of the 30 players coming from within the Blues region (4 x Northland, 1 x North Harbour, 17 x Auckland).
Head Coach Willie Walker said he thinks the club has recruited well:
“The additions we’ve made will only add to a strong returning group of players from last season. I’m proud of the way we’ve been able to retain a lot of our squad, it makes me think we’ve got the culture and vibe right if players want to come back and play for us,” he said.
“Our young players get to play and learn alongside people they’ve admired and looked up to which is great for their development,” said Walker.
“As well as experienced current players for the youngsters to feed off, it’s been great to add Charmaine McMenamin to our coaching group as someone with recent and relevant playing experience. I’m looking forward to working with her and the different perspective she will bring.”
Walker said the challenge for the nib Blues is to gel together as a squad, parking any thoughts of last season’s success.
“We need to innovate, stay ahead of the game and give ourselves an opportunity to win another title.”
nib Blues squad 2025
前锋
Chryss Viliko, Aldora Itunu, Sophie Fisher, Cheyenne Tuli-Fale, Harono Te Iringa*, Awhina Tangen-Wainohu*, Atlanta Lolohea*, Oceane Donelley*, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Eloise Blackwell, Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Elizabith Moimoi, Lemalu Dajian Brown, Paris Mataroa, Holly Greenway*, Lily Murray-Wihongi*
后卫
Kahlia Awa, Tara-Leigh Turner, Ruahei Demant, Krysten Cottrell, Sylvia Brunt, Daynah Nankivell, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe*, Patricia Maliepo, Katelyn Vahaakolo, Jaymie Kolose, Kerri Johnson, Braxton Sorensen-McGee*, Danii Mafoe*
*denotes rookie nib Blues squad member
