Whitney Hansen appointed Black Ferns Head Coach
Matatū is proud to celebrate an historic moment for our whānau – Whitney Hansen has been appointed Head Coach of the Black Ferns.
Whitney has been part of Matatū’s DNA since day one. Since we were established in 2021, she has lived and breathed our Matatūtanga: lifting others to greatness, putting in countless hours behind the scenes to create extraordinary experiences, and setting new standards in women’s high-performance rugby.
Her appointment is a powerful testament to that kaupapa and proof when we grow our people, incredible things happen.
Matatū General Manager Sarah Munro says Whitney’s impact on the team and the wider game has been profound.
“At Matatū we strive to be the first - follow no one. Whitney has lived that mantra daily. She has challenged, inspired, and cared for our staff and players. She has left Matatū in a stronger place through her leadership, dedication, and unwavering belief in our wāhine. While we’ll miss her immensely, we could not be prouder of this achievement.
To be the first ever female Black Ferns Head Coach in the professional era is something we are so proud of - it’s an incredible moment for Whitney, her family and our organisation, and it’s a testament to all the work she puts in to better others and leave the game in a better place.”
Whitney Hansen says leaving Matatū is bittersweet, but the opportunity ahead is one she embraces wholeheartedly.
“I am so grateful to Matatū for helping to shape me into the coach and the leader I am today, this team and the people in it are incredibly special, and I have loved my time here.
I am really looking forward to this next chapter in both my coaching journey and women’s rugby in New Zealand, the opportunity and privilege to contribute to the Black Ferns is an incredible honour and not a responsibility that I will take lightly”
While this announcement comes with some sadness for Matatū and the wider organisation, it comes with even greater pride and we take heart in the legacy and momentum Whitney leaves behind.
Our programme, our standards, and our connection to each other are all stronger because of her time here. Whitney will always be part of our whakapapa, and we know she will serve the fern with pride, carrying Aoraki as her guardian.