Portia Woodman-Wickliffe’s name continues to echo through the world of rugby. The Māori athlete has earned her place as one of the greatest to ever play the game. With 250 tries in the Sevens Series, she stands as the top try scorer in women’s rugby sevens history.
Her achievements have not only set records but inspired countless young women and Māori athletes. From Olympic medals to World Cup victories, Woodman-Wickliffe’s journey is a story of excellence, pride, and perseverance.
The Top Try Scorer in Women’s Sevens History
Portia Woodman-Wickliffe’s scoring ability is unmatched. She was the first woman to reach 200 tries in the Sevens Series — and didn’t stop there. She pushed on to become the first to score 250, a record that continues to define the sport.
Her remarkable skill and speed helped the Black Ferns Sevens team succeed on the world stage. Fans, teammates, and rivals alike recognize her as a fierce and consistent scorer, with few able to match her pace and power.
Her scoring record reflects years of dedication, making her a respected figure across generations of rugby supporters.
From Netball to Rugby: A Natural Talent Shines
Before turning to rugby, Woodman-Wickliffe was a professional netballer. Her athletic ability was clear long before she picked up a rugby ball. She joined the very first Black Ferns Sevens team to compete in the World Series in 2012.
It didn’t take long for her to become a standout. By combining netball’s agility with rugby’s strength and strategy, she quickly became one of the sport’s most dangerous players. Her natural ability, backed by tireless training, turned her into a global star.
She proved that athletes can cross codes and still reach the highest levels of success.
Olympic and World Cup Triumphs Cement Her Legacy
Woodman-Wickliffe’s career is filled with major victories. She helped the Black Ferns Sevens claim a silver medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. That was followed by Olympic gold in 2020 and again in 2024.
Her skills also powered the Black Ferns to Rugby World Cup titles in both 2017 and 2022. These wins were more than trophies — they represented years of hard work and growth for women’s rugby in New Zealand and beyond.
Fans continue to celebrate these moments as proof of what women athletes can achieve on the world stage.
Recognized as One of the Greatest in Women’s Rugby
Beyond the medals and tries, Woodman-Wickliffe’s impact on rugby is profound. She has been named World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Year, World Rugby Women’s Player of the Year, and World Rugby Women’s Sevens Player of the Decade.
These awards honor not only her athletic success but also her leadership and influence. She has become a role model for young women, Māori athletes, and aspiring rugby players worldwide.
Her career has shown that determination and pride in one’s heritage can lead to greatness.
A Story That Continues to Inspire New Generations
Though records can be broken, legends like Portia Woodman-Wickliffe leave lasting marks. Her achievements have paved the way for future Black Ferns and inspired a generation of athletes to dream big.
Today, she remains an icon in New Zealand sport. Her story reminds the world of the power of courage, culture, and unrelenting hard work. As more young girls take up rugby, many do so with Portia’s name in their hearts.
The rugby world continues to celebrate her extraordinary career and the doors she’s opened for others.
