The Black Ferns

The world-conquering Black Ferns have made their thrilling mark on and off the field.

A fifth World Cup crown received global recognition with World Rugby’s team of the year gong for the first time.

And that was backed up at the New Zealand Rugby awards in December, the Black Ferns taking out the team, coach and try of the year honours.

Achieving spectacular success playing an exciting brand, while keeping their feet on the ground, the team have become beacons for inclusion and equality.

Being awarded team of the year at the World Rugby Awards in Monaco in November — a first for a women’s side — is testament to their skill. It is also historically significant in a formerly male-dominated code.

The Black Ferns triumphs and flair have captured the public imagination.

The 13-try effort by flying winger Portia Woodman – World Rugby’s women’s player of the year – at the Women’s Rugby World Cup included eight in one game.

And the tournament’s final between the Black Ferns and England was so electrifying, one writer called it “easily the best 80 minutes of rugby all year”.

Women’s rugby has grown substantially in recent years, with more than 24,000 now playing in New Zealand.

The Black Ferns are role models to continue that momentum and help inspire new generations.