Marcelle Parkes

Date of Birth: 9 September 1997
Position: Number 8
Provincial Union: Canterbury

Marcelle Parkes returns as one of the experienced leaders within the Matatū environment, bringing power, composure, and a wealth of top-level experience to both the loose forwards and front row. A member of the club’s inaugural 2022 squad, Parkes played a key role in Matatū’s historic Super Rugby Aupiki title-winning campaign in 2023 and has consistently been one of the side’s most reliable performers at number 8 before successfully transitioning into the front row as a loosehead prop.

In 2018, Marcelle became one of the first 28 wāhine to receive a professional Black Ferns contract — a landmark moment for women’s rugby in New Zealand. She went on to make her Black Ferns debut against France later that year and has since built an impressive career across both provincial and international rugby.

Known for her physicality, versatility, and strong set-piece presence, Parkes continues to be a valuable presence for both Matatū and Canterbury, bringing leadership and experience across multiple positions in the forward pack.