Black Ferns legend back, this time in blue

NEWS: Arguably the greatest women’s rugby player in history, Black Ferns legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has retired from international rugby – but she’s not done yet.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist Woodman-Wickliffe is poised to write another chapter in her storied career, signing on with the champion Blues for Super Rugby Aupiki next year.

Woodman-Wickliffe is both a SVNS Series icon and a two-time World Cup winner in 15s, and that’s not all.

Woodman-Wickliffe broke record after record during a decorated international career. The destructive ball carrier has won Player of the Year awards in sevens and 15s, was named the Sevens Player of the Decade in 2020, and was the first woman to score 250 tries in sevens.

There are so many accolades to speak of, and that’s not even close to being everything, with the experienced campaigner stepping away from the black jersey as maybe the greatest woman to have ever played the game at the professional level.

A proud Northlander, Woodman-Wickliffe will link up with the Blues after a stint with the Mie Pearls in Japan. She felt the opportunity to play Super Rugby Aupiki alongside her niece, Kerri Johnson, was too good to miss.

“Kerri played for the Blues last season and loved every moment, it was inspiring to see what the team achieved, and it was something I wanted to be a part of,” said Woodman-Wickliffe.

“The chance to play with my niece is something pretty special for me and my whānau, and to be honest I need to get in and play with her now before she’s off playing in a black jersey in the coming years!”

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is a legendary performer 🫶 🇳🇿#HSBCSVNS pic.twitter.com/itbSrezTLM

— HSBC SVNS (@SVNSSeries) August 6, 2024

Woodman-Wickliffe also discussed the move with her wife, Renee Woodman-Wickliffe, who was part of the Blues last season.

“Renee only had good things to say about the culture and vibe of the Blues, after speaking with her, I knew I wanted to come and play,” she said.

Blues Head Coach, Willie Walker, is absolutely stoked to have Woodman-Wickliffe signed.

“Her skills on the park speak for themselves, she’s world-class,” said Walker.

“Having Portia with us is also going be hugely beneficial for the team off the field. Her experience around all aspects of physical preparation, recovery, and mental skills is going to be a huge asset for those around her.”