NZ Warriors recruit reflects on ‘dream come true’ with Black Ferns Sevens

New Zealand Warriors recruit Tysha Ikenasio has penned a couple of heartfelt messages of thanks on social media, with the HSBC SVNS Series star describing the chance to play for the Black Ferns Sevens as “a dream come true” before embarking on a new journey.

Two-time Olympic gold medallist Michaela Blyde was announced as a marquee recruit for the ‘Wahs’ last week, and another teammate from New Zealand’s sevens side followed soon after as Ikenasio was unveiled as one of four new signings on Thursday.

Ikenasio brings versatility to the Warriors as a world-class athlete who can play both fullback and centre in rugby league. At just 27 years of age, Ikenasio has already represented New Zealand at the 2015 Tag World Cup, in touch rugby, and of course rugby sevens.

In rugby union, the New Zealander spent five years playing sevens in Japan with Tokyo Phoenix and Nagato Blue Angels before returning home where she played rugby league for Richmond Roses. Ikenasio also enjoyed a stint in the USA with the Texas Team.

After debuting on the SVNS Series in 2022, Ikenasio became a regular squad member for the Black Ferns Sevens, and was later picked as a travelling reserve for Team New Zealand’s roster for this year’s Olympic Games in Paris.

But a new chapter in Ikenasio’s incredible sporting career awaits.

“It’s always been a dream come true,” Ikenasio wrote on Instagram. “Forever grateful for this journey I have been on in the black jersey.

“Time definitely flies when you are having fun. Thank @nzsevens for everything. The friendships and memories will last a lifetime.

“To everyone who has supported me along the journey… thank you,” she added in another post. “Black Ferns 7s #86 signing out…”

As the Warriors prepare to build their squad for the 2025 season, fans on social media have been excited about the additions of Ikenasio and Blyde. Blyde is regarded as one of the greatest players in Black Ferns Sevens history and also one of the sport’s all-time best.

Blyde has twice been named World Rugby’s Sevens Player of the Year, and the speedy winger was recently nominated for that prestigious award in Monaco – but that honour went the way of Australia’s Maddison Levi who scored in pretty well every appearance last season.

The two-time Olympic gold medallist possesses a powerful running game, elite speed off the mark, and an unwavering sense of confidence on both sides of the ball. Alongside Ikenasio who boasts an impressive playmaking ability, the Warriors have added some genuine stars to their squad.

“Honestly I’ve been watching the NRLW from afar for years. I’ve had mates who have played in it, had teammates who have made the switch to league and honestly been in awe of all the talent that has been shown,” Ikenasio said in a statement.

“I actually had a season of league in Auckland after I returned home from being in Japan for five years playing seven. I got to play for the Richmond Roses alongside some really amazing players like Laishon Albert-Jones and Charlotte Scanlan with coach Tash Davies.

“When Ron reached out to me I couldn’t believe it. I was nervous for the first phone call but it was instantly effortless. He hadn’t asked me one thing about league or sport, it was all about me as a person, my family, where I grew up and I knew from then that he was a genuine, good human being.

“The way he talked about building a culture, building a community and just being good people, not only reflected on him but also the way the team culture is going to be built. Coming from the Black Ferns Sevens you know just how important culture is off the field and so hearing his vision for the Warriors there was no doubt in my mind I wanted to be part of that.

“I feel like the NRLW is just growing each year with the foundation that these ladies and teams have already set, it will only get bigger and better. I am honoured to be with the Warriors and to be able to have a chance to wear the New Zealand Warriors jersey.

“… I know I have a lot to learn in league and I’m excited to learn alongside some really experienced players. I’m just thankful that Ron has given me this opportunity and I’m excited for not only next year but the next three years. Building a great team culture, giving back to the community and inspiring the next generation.”