Sarah Hirini

Sarah Hirini - the Serial Winner.

Sarah Hirini

I heard much about Sarah ( Gossy) before I met her. The legendary coaching trio of Smithy, Ted and Crono had been waxing lyrical to me about her. How she was ‘as tough as nails’. Could share 300 odd-sheep in a day. How Ted got his hand crushed by her handshake. And what a fantastic person Sarah was.

Her records on the pitch are phenomenal. Several RWC 7’s titles. RWC2017 and RWC2021 wins alongside Olympic Gold and Silver medals, not to even start on the list of other sevens trophies and personal accolades.

Unfortunately, I still haven’t met Sarah in person but a phone chat had to suffice as we finish off our interview series for the book.

We discussed the impact Seven’s is having, has had, on the fifteens game. How being professional has lifted the onfield performance and created new standards for those around them. And we chatted about the Aotearoa Maori Sevens team and what a huge part they have played in the success of the NZ rugby sevens teams over the years.

It was good to chat - hopefully in person next time.