Patricia Maliepo has become the latest Black Ferns rugby union international to switch codes after signing a one-year deal to join the One New Zealand Warriors for their return to the NRLW this season.
The 22-year-old 10-Test Black Fern has been confirmed as the club’s 23rd squad member just days after helping the Blues win the Super Rugby Aupiki title for the second straight year.
Primarily a first five-eighth, Maliepo is one of a number of rugby union players signed to join the Warriors led by Black Ferns Michaela Brake (née Blyde), Tysha Ikenasio and Shakira Baker.
“We are excited to have Patricia joining our whānau,” said One New Zealand Warriors NRLW head coach Ron Griffiths.
“She has an exceptional skill set, equally adept with her running, kicking and passing game.
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“She also has wonderful vision and we are looking forward to her developing playing an instinctive game with the freedom to do so.”
Educated at Edgewater College and Southern Cross Campus, the prodigious Maliepo was a 16-year-old student when she made her debut for Auckland in the Farah Palmer Cup in 2019.
“I’ve seen girls move out of rugby union into rugby league and I’ve always wanted (to do it) but never thought it would come this early,” said Maliepo.
“Ever since I got a call from Ron I’ve been excited. I’m really excited for the new change and the new challenges.
“I felt the timing was right when Ron reached out to me. The vibe he gave me wasn’t one full of bull.
“I don’t think I’ve ever come across a coach who approached me and spoke to me in a way that changed my whole perspective of being in a new environment.”
Maliepo had the distinction of playing for the Blues in the first-ever women’s Super Rugby match against the Chiefs in 2021 before she made her Black Ferns Test debut against England later that year as an 18-year-old.
With Maliepo being signed, the Warriors now have one more spot to fill in their squad of 24 for the 2025 NRLW season.
Profile | Patricia Maliepo
Born: March 13, 2003
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Club team (rugby union): Marist
Position: First five-eighth
Height: 175cm
Weight: 82kg
Farah Palmer Cup (rugby union): Auckland Storm (2019-2023)
Appearances: 26
Points: 174 (11 tries, 49 conversions, 7 penalties)
Super Rugby Aupiki (rugby union): Blues (2021-2025)
Appearances: 20
Points: 33 (5 tries, 4 conversions)
Honours (rugby union):
International: Black Ferns (2021-2024)
Tests: 10
Points: 17 (3 tries, 1 conversion)
Representative: New Zealand Barbarians (2020)
Appearances: 2
Points: 12 (3 conversions, 2 penalties)
