'First in the women's space': Sarah Hirini to take historic sabbatical

Black Ferns Sevens captain Sarah Hirini will take an historic sabbatical in Japan after this season’s HSBC World Series.

The sabbatical has been described by New Zealand Rugby’s Chris Lendrum as “a first in the women’s space.”

After this season’s World Series finale in Toulouse next month, Hirini will play for Mie Women’s Rugby Football Club PEARLS in Japan’s Taiyo Seimei Women’s Sevens Series.

Hirini will play for the Yokkaichi based club for the 2023 season, before returning to New Zealand and the Black Ferns Sevens ahead of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

“I am stoked to be able to have the opportunity to head over to Japan and play for the MIE PEARLS,” Hirini said in a statement.

“Japan is an amazing country, from their culture to their people it will be an incredible experience, and one which my husband, Connor, and I are exceptionally grateful for.

“This would not be possible without the support from Cory, my sevens sisters and New Zealand Rugby and for that I am incredibly thankful.

“Playing abroad will allow me to continue to grow as a player, experience a new playing environment, different coaching style and refresh ahead of an exciting year with the Black Ferns Sevens.”

The Black Ferns Sevens are on the cusp of World Series glory this season, and Hirini has played a pivotal role in their success.

Hirini was one of New Zealand’s best last weekend as they overcame a resilient Australian side in the women’s Cup final at the Hong Kong Sevens.

Black Ferns Sevens coach Corey Sweeney believes the sabbatical will be “a great thing for her and the team” before the Olympics.

“Sarah is invaluable to our team’s success, both on and off the field. She dedicates a huge amount of time to the Black Ferns Sevens jersey,” Sweeney said.

“This opportunity allows her to reset and refresh, through experiencing a new team environment and culture, which will be a great thing for her and the team ahead of our Olympic campaign.”

A number of All Blacks have taken sabbaticals over the last few season, before returning to New Zealand rested and raring to fire.

But this is “a first” for women’s rugby in Aotearoa.

“Sarah signed her first professional contract with the Black Ferns Sevens ten years ago in 2013. Over this time, she has amassed a long and illustrious list of accolades,” NZR’s Chris Lendrum said.

“While this arrangement is a first in the women’s space it is similar to sabbaticals offered to some of our senior All Blacks who have played in Japan.

“The flexibility we have in our contracting model allows for our top players across both the men’s and women’s professional game a chance to refresh, experience and engage in a different rugby environment, but remain committed to New Zealand Rugby, which is a good result.

“We are looking forward to seeing her back in black when she returns ready for the 2024 Paris Olympics.”