Hireme back in NZ 7s squad
Powerful finisher Honey Hireme is one of 19 players handed New Zealand women's sevens contracts this week as she returns to the game after a break in 2014, when she represented the Black Ferns at the World Cup
Published by Alison Donnelly, January 25th, 2015
3 minute read
Hireme is a powerful addition to the squad which includes two new facesMorgan Morrow and Charlotte Scanlan.
Also contracted is Wellington's Kat Whata-Simpkins, who was on a development contract last season.
Coach Sean Horan is expected to name a further two contracted players during the year.
"The game is definitely progressing, it really excites me how far things have gone," Horan said.
"There seems to be a real competitive edge out there, and girls are working hard to compete for these precious contracts.
"It's also clear that some provinces are really starting see the potential of sevens, and we're seeing athletes coming through, particularly from rural areas, with good skillsets and professional standards keep improving.
"In selecting this year's squad, we've stuck with the tried and true and we've rewarded players who have clearly worked hard.
"We are very lucky in that these contracts allow the players to focus on their training, without the pressures of having to manage a job, study as well as training requirements."
He added he was pleased to welcome back Hireme as well as captain Huriana Manuel after injury though she is not expected to play until April.
"I am delighted to have Honey come back into the family. Her explosive power and strength will be a welcome weapon of attack back on the international circuit," Horan said.
Commenting on the return of Kalya McAlister he added:
"She was in scintillating form at the National Sevens last weekend," Horan said. "She was a clear standout which is why she was named the Women's Player of the Tournament.
"While she was scoring all those tries, she's not yet up to our match fitness, so it's exciting to think she still has so much room to improve."
The squad assembles in Mount Maunganui next week, with a 12-strong squad for the Sao Paulo Sevens in February to be named on Thursday.
New Zealand Women's Sevens contracted squad:Michaela Blyde, Kelly Brazier, Gayle Broughton, Sarah Goss, Honey Hireme, Carla Hohepa, Huriana Manuel, Kayla McAlister, Morgan Morrow, Tyla Nathan-Wong, Charlotte Scanlan, Shiray Tane, Alexis Tapsell, Hazel Tubic, Ruby Tui, Jordon Webber, Katarina Whata-Simpkins, Selica Winiata, Portia Woodman.