Amy du Plessis becomes first Matatū player to reach Glacier Five-Season Milestone
This week, Amy du Plessis becomes the first Matatū player to reach the Glacier Five-Season Milestone, a new recognition that honours players whose impact is felt widely throughout our organisation – and a milestone that fittingly coincides with Matatū hosting their first ever Super Rugby Aupiki final.
The milestone celebrates the equivalent of five seasons of consistent games across the Super Rugby Aupiki competition for the club. Like the South Island glaciers it is named after, it recognises those whose influence is often felt over time rather than in a single moment.
Reflecting on where it all began, du Plessis admits she never imagined she would one day become one of the most influential figures of Matatū.
"I was a pretty naive little girl that just loved playing rugby," says du Plessis.
Being the first player to receive the honour is both humbling and rewarding.
"It's pretty special to be the first one to receive this Glacier milestone. I feel very honoured because of the way that Matatū has made me feel as a player and a person.
"It's been really awesome to see the growth in thie team on and off the field from year one to year five. I feel truly grateful that I've been a part of that journey."
Glaciers are among the most powerful natural features in Te Waipounamu. From a distance they appear still, but they are constantly advancing, shaping valleys, carving rivers and transforming the landscape around them. Their legacy is not built overnight; it is forged through relentless consistency over many years.
More than a measure of appearances, the Glacier Five-Season Milestone acknowledges those who help shape the identity of Matatū and who leave the jersey in a better place for those who follow.
"Being part of Matatū means more than just a team, it's a family. It's a place that I feel like I can be myself and it brings me a lot of joy.
"What makes this team unique is the amount of care that we have for our people. It's a space where every single person can feel and be themselves. That's something I really value about Matatū.
Over five seasons, du Plessis has helped create some of the most memorable moments in the club's history.
Among them is Matatū's Super Rugby Aupiki title triumph in 2023, and when the team became the first women's side to play at One New Zealand Stadium.
"That was a pretty spectacular moment for Matatū and for our history.”
Five seasons, 27 games, and countless contributions.
Like a glacier, Amy du Plessis' impact has been shaped over time, and like the landscape glaciers leave behind, her influence on Matatū will be felt for generations to come.