Brazil Women Sevens name new head coach after Crystal Kaua exit

Crystal Kaua has left her role as Brazil Women’s Sevens head coach after the union opted not to renew the New Zealander’s contract.

The former Chiefs Manawa head coach joined Brazil in 2024 and oversaw the team’s ninth-place finish at the HSBC SVNS World Championship in 2026. She was the first woman to coach the team.

Her tenure also included a dramatic HSBC SVNS 2 victory in São Paulo earlier in 2026. The victory clinched Brazil’s place at the SVNS World Championship, where they narrowly missed out on qualification for the HSBC SVNS Series.

Kaua said: “We came to Brazil with a very clear goal – to take the Yaras to the Los Angeles Olympic Games. I would have loved the opportunity to continue and complete that journey, but unfortunately, my contract could not be renewed. I am incredibly proud of what we built together. We finished ninth in the world for two consecutive years while bringing ten new athletes into the team – something we will always be proud of.

“We know this team still has so much more to show, and we felt we were getting closer and closer to reaching its full potential. The athletes and staff worked extremely hard for this, and I believe we are leaving the Yaras in a great position to continue growing and achieving great things.”

Ahead of this month’s Sudamérica Rugby Sevens, former Brazil international Ige da Ros has been named Brazil Women’s Sevens head coach, replacing Kaua.

Da Ros, Brazil’s record men’s XVs appearance-maker, has spent the past four seasons with the *Yaras* programme across both XVs and sevens as an assistant coach.

Alexandre Chiofetti, CEO of the Brazilian Rugby Confederation, said: “Crystal was the first woman to lead the Yaras, which was an important milestone in the development of Brazilian women’s rugby. We are extremely grateful for all the work she carried out, showing that there are no barriers for our national team. Crystal delivered a world-class level of work, with great competence and knowledge transfer.

“On the field, we experienced historic moments. We defeated Australia, lifted a title at home, developed new athletes, and the talent that exists in our country was showcased to the world. Crystal’s work also helped Brazilian players earn opportunities to compete in major leagues around the world. We can only thank her for everything she has done.”