Grace Brooker named 2026 Matatū Captain
Matatū has named Grace Brooker as its Captain for the 2026 season.
Grace is a leader whose connection to the jersey runs deep, but the appointment isn’t about status or title. It’s about care, responsibility and continuing a legacy that has been shaped by those who came before her.
“Taking on the captaincy of Matatū is an honour of a lifetime; it is a taonga held lovingly by people who mean the world to me. It is more than a privilege to care for something so special. The Matatūtunga we hold as a team closely aligns with my own values”
She acknowledges the standard set by former Captain Alana Bremner and the influence that leadership has had on her own journey.
“There are some big shoes to fill following Alana’s run as captain. Fortunately, I have had the privilege of learning from her for many years, and I will do everything I can to uphold the care she put into the team,” says Brooker.
Brooker’s relationship with Matatū goes beyond the playing group. It’s personal, emotional and deeply rooted in whakapapa and belonging.
“Ko aū ko Matatū, ko Matatū ko aū, I am Matatū and Matatū is me. This team is more than a group of people. It is my home.
Despite her natural leadership within the squad, Brooker says the idea of becoming captain was never something she chased.
“I didn’t think about it. I always tried to act as I think a Matatū player should. Learning from those around me, driving to be my best, and caring for everyone and every privilege the role of being a player allowed me. It is very heart‑warming the management believe I can lead others to have a similar mindset.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Brooker’s excitement is clear, and so is the standard she and the group are setting.
“I’ve been chatting to a few of the players about the season, and we are all on the same page around putting out a product that dominates the competition.
“We hold each other to a very high standard, so I believe the quality of rugby we will produce is something people will want to bear witness to."
With Grace Brooker at the helm, Matatū enters 2026 guided by someone who understands that leadership is about service, connection and honouring the people who make the jersey what it is.