Black Ferns legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe is poised to write another chapter in her storied career, signing on with the champion Blues for Super Rugby Aupiki next year.
The speedy winger retired from the national sevens programme, after winning repeat gold at the Paris Olympics, and has just completed a professional contract with Japanese club Mie Pearls.
Woodman-Wickliffe, 33, admits the prospect of playing alongside niece Kerri Johnson was too tempting to turn down.
"Kerri played for the Blues last season and loved every moment," she said. "It was inspiring to see what the team achieved and it was something I wanted to be a part of.
The Black Ferns legend has retired from the international sevens circuit. (Source: 1News)
"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."
Wife Renee Woodman-Wickliffe was also part of the triumphant Blues outfit that beat Chiefs Manawa 24-18 in the final.
"Renee only had good things to say about the culture and vibe of the Blues," she said. "After speaking with her, I knew I wanted to come and play."
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe has scored more tries than any other woman on the World Rugby sevens circuit, and has enjoyed success across both sevens and the 15-a-side formats, winning Olympic and Commonwealth Games golds, as well as two World Cups with the Black Ferns. In 2020, she was named World Rugby Women's Sevens Player of the Decade.
"Her skills on the park speak for themselves, she’s world class," said Blues coach Willie 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."
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