Renee Holmes Re-signs for 2023

Renee Holmes will return south for her second season with Matatū as a newly crowned World Champion in 2023.

The young fullback represented New Zealand at age-group level in Taekwondo, Ultimate Frisbee, Rugby and Football, and Matatū Rugby Club are all the better for Holmes pursuing Rugby. Speaking on her first season at Matatū, Holmes believes her time playing in blue was a turning point in her career,

“Everything I had imagined happened down there and even more.”

“They provided so much for me on and off the field and that led to a big shift in my rugby. I think I've been playing my best rugby this year and that has been a big part of it.”

“Making that move down south to a new environment, with new players, new coaches, and being uncomfortable, it just brought so much more growth out of me and a lot more leadership came out of me this year, which was really, really cool.”

Holmes played a pivotal role for the Black Ferns in their most recent World Cup campaign, starting in both the Semi-Final and Final, and coming off the bench in the Quarter Final.

Head Coach Blair Baxter has noted Holmes’ incredible growth over the last 12 months as the team prepares for the season,

“Renee has grown immensely across 2022 as we seen her showcase all of her quality attributes at the world cup. It fantastic to have Ren back with Matatu in 2023. Ren brings energy, work ethic and a real desire to be better every day. Can’t wait to have her back in the mix!”