Theresa Fitzpatrick

Theresa Fitzpatrick, now known as Theresa Setefano, is a powerful centre for the Black Ferns and the New Zealand Sevens team. She made her sevens debut in 2016 and her first appearance for the Black Ferns in 2017. 

Born on 25 February 1995, Theresa Fitzpatrick is not the only talented sportsperson in her family; her younger sister, Sulu Tone-Fitzpatrick, used to play netball for the Silver Ferns. Both siblings competed in a variety of sports during their youth but Theresa's big moment came while she was studying medicine at the University of Auckland. 

A dedicated player, Fitzpatrick put her medical studies on hold to make her New Zealand Sevens debut. She earned her first cap at the 2016 USA Women's Sevens, where she scored her first international try. She also competed at the 2016 Olympics, where she won a silver medal. 

Next, she won the gold medal at the 2020 Olympics. Following this, she was also included in the Black Ferns Sevens squad for the 2022 Commonwealth Games and took home a bronze medal. 

In the 15s, Fitzpatrick was selected for the 2017 Rugby World Cup. She came on as a replacement during the final against England, helping to secure New Zealand’s 41-32 win and take their sixth title. 

In 2022, Fitzpatrick competed at the inaugural Super Rugby Aupiki tournament. However, it was at the delayed 2021 Rugby World Cup where she really showcased her skills.

Fitzpatrick scored three tries during the tournament. Her first two occurred during the pool stage: one in the Black Ferns' 56-12 victory over Wales and one in their 57-0 win against Scotland. She also scored in their tense semi-final against France—New Zealand won 25-24. 

In 2023, Fitzpatrick stepped away from rugby. She married her partner Ryan Quentin Setefano and changed her name to Theresa Setefano. Eager to return to the sport, she rejoined the Black Ferns Sevens in 2024. A few months later, she was selected to compete at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, where she again won gold.

Described by her team as a 'powerful ball carrier with explosive speed', we look forward to seeing what else Theresa Fitzpatrick can achieve in the game.