Australia Sevens trio eye 2028 LA Olympics after signing new deals

2025 HSBC SVNS Series Rookie of the Year nominee Kaitlin Shave has set her sights on the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, announced as one of three Australia Women’s Sevens players who have inked contract extensions.

Kahli Henwood, former Global Youth Sevens standout Amahli Hala and Shave have all extended through to the LA Games. Henwood went to the Paris Olympics as injury cover, and got the chance to play after Shave was ruled out.

Shave debuted on the world’s premier sevens circuit at the Dubai Sevens a few years ago, and was later recognised for an impressive rookie campaign. The Aussie was shortlisted for ROTY honours along with Canada’s Carissa Norsten and Argentina’s Juana Stella.

The former track sprinter was selected for the Paris Olympics, but sustained a knee injury. Henwood was then brought into the playing squad, having never played on the SVNS Series before then.

Hala has signed a new two-year deal with the program, with the Queenslander chasing what would be her first Olympic appearance. The Coomera product has previously played for the Australia U18s Girls Sevens side and won the Global Youth Sevens in 2023.

“Kaitlin returned from her knee injury and found some incredible form during the World Championship winning 2025/2026 season,” Director of Women’s High Performance, Tim Walsh, said.

“Maturing into a world-class player with a powerful point of difference, Kaitlin has found a habit in scoring match-winning tries, none more memorable to beat New Zealand in Valladolid.

“Amahli is nearing the end of her international Sevens apprenticeship and is more than ready to stamp her authority on the world stage.

“A ruthless competitor, an engine always full of fuel and desire to be better makes her a valued Aussie Sevens rugby player.

“The omnipresent Kahli is ever-reliable, composed and versatile. She drives standards, competes for everything and is authentic in every way.”