Black Ferns bring Rugby Inspiration to Patcham High

Black Ferns Bring Rugby Inspiration to Patcham High School

Patcham High School welcomed six members of New Zealand’s world-famous women’s rugby team, the Black Ferns, who were in Brighton competing in the Rugby World Cup 2025, for a special community event on Saturday 7th September. Around 40 children aged 7–14 enjoyed an unforgettable morning of rugby, culture, and fun, with families and staff joining together to celebrate the sport.

The players Vici-Rose Green, Kelly Brazier, Kaipo Olsen-Baker, Vei Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Iritana Hohaia and Atlanta Lolohea, were greeted with a moving Powhiri (Māori welcoming ceremony) performed by the Patcham High School choir and given a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

They responded at the end of the session with a Waiata of their own, which captivated the crowd, before presenting the school with a Black Ferns Rugby World Cup 2025 shirt signed by the entire squad. 

The cultural exchange set the tone for the morning. New Zealander Stefan Mapp, Head of Music, said:

It was absolutely fantastic for me to be able to share my culture with our musicians and community. Bringing to life some concepts talked about in Year 7 lessons, such as Waiata (Aotearoa folk music), and providing the students a chance to see this in practice.

Stefan Mapp, Head of Music

From there, the event shifted to the school’s 3G pitch, where children rotated through rugby skills stations such as passing, agility and line-out throwing. The Black Ferns threw themselves into the activities alongside Patcham High staff, offering expert coaching and encouragement. Pupils also created their own Poi, which became treasured keepsakes, before finishing with an autograph session.

Reflecting on the importance of connecting with young people, Black Ferns star Kelly Brazier explained:

It’s always special for us getting out amongst the community, throwing the rugby ball around. I think that’s where a lot of us started - with grassroots rugby.

Kelly Brazier, Black Ferns

For many young people, the highlight was meeting world class Rugby players. Silver, a Patcham High School student shared her excitement:

I really enjoyed the session. Rugby is something I find enjoyable and fun. Meeting the Black Ferns was inspiring as they were so nice and keen to get involved and talk to us. It was also good to have so many girls taking part.

Silver, Patcham High Student

That sense of inspiration was felt by students and families alike. Steve Arnold, whose son Ben attended, described the impact of the day:

Ben loved every minute of it. They were so generous with their time, so friendly and approachable. Thank you for organising such a wonderful opportunity.

Steve Arnold, Parent

Assistant Headteacher Ruth Astley highlighted the wider impact on the school and community:

Hosting the Black Ferns captured so much of what we value at Patcham High - community, connection and opportunity. The players brought so much warmth and skill and shared this with the children in our community. We’re proud to have hosted an event that brought children of all ages together to celebrate rugby and culture.

Ruth Astley, Assistant Headteacher

Looking ahead, Tom Brookes, Director of Sport, said the visit has helped strengthen Patcham’s rugby journey:

Rugby is a fantastic sport that has the power to not only develop people physically but also emotionally and socially. We are really looking forward to seeing the impact the Rugby World Cup has on participation in girls’ rugby and are fully committed to providing as many opportunities as we can at Patcham High School.

Tom Brookes, Director of Sport

The visit came just one day before the Black Ferns convincingly beat Ireland 40–0 in their Women’s Rugby World Cup pool match, yet they gave their all at Patcham, leaving a lasting impression on every child who took part. The school is determined to build on this experience to inspire even more young people, particularly girls, to discover the joy of rugby.