Michaela Brake announces post-baby comeback to Black Ferns Sevens

Black Ferns Sevens ace Michaela Brake has signed a new deal with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) through to the end of 2027.

The 30-year-old has begun her return to rugby after giving birth in March. The commitment to competing for a Black Ferns Sevens jersey again was made late last year, with NZR supporting Brake through her pregnancy.

Last seen in a black jersey in Los Angeles last year as New Zealand were crowned series champions, Brake says the past 12 months have been a journey for both her and her team.

“The last nine months have been humbling; pregnancy has been a journey, and it’s made me appreciate women’s bodies a lot more than I did before. The arrival of my son Harvey has been such a joy, and I’m now in a place mentally where I want to come back,” she said.

“I love this team and this game so much. It’s been incredibly exciting watching the young talent come through. They’ve stepped up massively this year, and I’m so proud of them. But when I come back, I’m going to be that aunty that’s annoying, and I’m going to be fighting for my position.”

Women’s Sevens’ all-time leading try scorer with 273 tries to her name, Brake says she expects some “trial and error” as she returns to training.

“I now call myself a full-time mum and a part-time rugby player because the well-being of my son comes first, so the fact I’m able to still be able to play rugby and come back to the Black Ferns Sevens is such a privilege.

“I’m very lucky to be in a position where I can come back and to have so much support around me who are helping me along the way.”

With the Black Ferns Sevens a tight-knit family, Black Ferns head coach Cory Sweeney was sure Brake’s return to the team would bring positivity and professionalism.

“Michaela is hugely important to our group, not only for what she brings to the field but also as a positive influence in the way she carries herself and the intensity, focus and professionalism she brings to training every day.

“She has stayed connected with our group, but we’re looking forward to officially welcoming her back to the environment…

“She’s a remarkable athlete and incredibly competitive, but we’ll take our time and manage her transition back into training through the second half of the year.”

NZR Head of Women’s High Performance Hannah Porter spoke about supporting Brake through her pregnancy and shared her excitement about one of New Zealand’s greats being back competing for a black jersey.

“Michaela was clear around her intention to return to SVNS, and NZR wanted to be there to support her through her pregnancy and give her the certainty that our door was open when she was ready to resume her career.

“We’re thrilled she feels ready to return and is in a great place both physically and mentally after such a significant period in her life. She has always been an inspiring figure within our game, and her return once again highlights what is possible for athletes balancing both motherhood and high performance sport.”