Black Ferns to go professional

In an historic first for the women’s rugby 15s game, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the New Zealand Rugby Players Association (NZRPA) have negotiated a formal Black Ferns professional performance programme.

In a move hailed as a landmark, team members will not only be paid for their efforts but also receive elite-level training, nutritional and career development support.

The Parental Policy in the MOU introduces an entitlement for players returning to the programme from maternity leave, to have a support person of their choice to travel and stay with them to look after the infant during squad assembly.  The costs of travel and accommodation for the support person will be met by the Player Payment Pool, with the cost capped at $15,000 a year for each player until their child turns one.  The policy also provides opportunities for players due to go on maternity leave, to move into other safe employment within the rugby network until the player goes on maternity leave.

It is expected that players will be required to commit around 10-14 hours per week for rugby training however, priority will be given to ensuring players can maintain their work and study while on the programme. For those selected to the Black Ferns squad they will assemble for approximately 50 days a year for training camps and fixtures. Details of the Black Ferns fixtures for 2018 will be announced in due course. 

NZR CEO Steve Tew said he was proud of the announcement which signalled new era in women’s sport in New Zealand and in rugby. 

“Women’s participation in sport is growing globally, and women represent the fastest growing group in New Zealand rugby numbers. One in seven rugby players in New Zealand is female.

“The Black Ferns – and the Black Ferns Sevens – have rapidly grown in profile, statue, and relevance on the international stage.  This agreement supports them to be the best they can be when wearing the black jersey.

“Rugby fans can’t get enough of the Black Ferns’ exhilarating and entertaining rugby. And, if we want to support players to continue to give their all, we need to ensure we’re providing the best environment in order for them to perform at their best.  Today’s announcement highlights our commitment to all rugby and to the black jersey.

“Congratulations to the negotiation team on their hard work behind this agreement.  The programme we are announcing today delivers a sustainable model that allows for growth, and that is ultimately, great for the game.

“This year will be an exciting year for the Black Ferns - we have already announced Glenn Moore’s re-appointment as Head Coach, and we will soon announce details of the Black Ferns 2018 programme.”