Trio of returning stars headline 2025 Chiefs Manawa squad

Three familiar faces will be back in action for the Chiefs Manawa in 2025 as the team looks to go one better than their consecutive second-place finishes.

While Black Ferns prop Santo Taumata is set to return from injury, fellow Black Fern and world champion Kelly Brazier comes into the side along with Olympic gold medallist Tenika Willison

The region is celebrating its recent FPC win, something head coach Dwayne Sweeney hopes will ignite a winning edge in his squad.

“Kelly, Tenika and Santo were all exceptional for Chiefs Manawa in previous seasons, so we are excited to have them back in Chiefs colours. They will add to the depth and experience within our squad but also bring some healthy competition that will have everyone working hard for those starting roles.

“I don’t want to be biased, but Waikato were immense during FPC this season and earned their title. We have selected several of our rookies from within that team as across the competition; we feel they were the best of that next generation of players. We look forward to seeing them perform at Super Rugby level.”

Another cross-code star Rosie Kelly also joins the Hamilton club, while Canada’s Shoshanah Seumanutafa and Fiji’s Jade Coates add even more international experience.

“I’m super excited for the opportunity to join Chiefs Manawa for the upcoming season,” Kelly said upon signing last week.

“I look forward to embracing the team culture, creating new connections and growing as a player both on and off the field. Super Rugby Aupiki is growing every year and I can’t wait for the 2025 season to begin.”

2025 Chiefs Manawa Squad:
Ariana Bayler
Azalleyah Maaka
Charmaine Smith
Chyna Hohepa
Grace Houpapa-Barrett
Grace Kukutai
Hazel Tubic
Jade Coates*
Kate Henwood
Kelly Brazier
Kennedy Tukuafu (nee Simon)
Kiriana Nolan
Krystal Murray
Logan Hauraki*
Luka Connor
Mererangi Paul
Mia Anderson
Reese Anderson
Renee Holmes
Rosie Kelly
Ruby Tui
Santo Taumata
Shoshanah Seumanutafa*
Tanya Kalounivale
Tenika Willison
Veisinia Mahutariki Fakalelu*
Vici-Rose Green