Braxton Sorensen-McGee Shines as Breakout Star of 2025 Rugby Season

Braxton Sorensen-McGee, a 19-year-old rugby sensation, has experienced a remarkable rise in 2025, quickly establishing herself as a standout player for the Black Ferns. Despite a year filled with accolades, including being named the World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year, Sorensen-McGee reveals that she did not fulfill one personal goal: pursuing her education.

Reflecting on her extraordinary journey, Sorensen-McGee shared her aspirations to study early childhood education while balancing a debut season in Super Rugby Aupiki. “My plan was to do Blues in the first part of the year and then go study the second part of the year,” she stated. However, her unexpected call-up to the Black Ferns shifted her focus entirely.

Over the past year, Sorensen-McGee transitioned from an aspiring teacher to a prominent figure in women’s rugby, earning multiple awards including the Junior Māori Sportswoman of the Year and Black Ferns Player of the Year. With a collection of trophies now adorning her family’s home in Auckland, she humorously noted, “I’ve just moved those aside,” referring to her former rugby league accolades.

Sorensen-McGee’s journey began in 2020 when she took up rugby while on a league scholarship. She quickly made her mark in the Farah Palmer Cup, where her talent became undeniable. Under the guidance of Blues coach Willie Walker, she emerged as a key player during the Super Rugby Aupiki season, culminating in a stunning long-range try in the final against Matatū. Following this, she scored twice in the Super Rugby Champions final against the Waratahs, further solidifying her status as a rising star.

Following her impressive performances, Sorensen-McGee received a call to join the Black Ferns training camp in preparation for the Pacific Four Series. Initially unsure of her inclusion, she made a memorable debut against the Wallaroos, scoring two tries and demonstrating her skill at the international level. Her speed, footwork, and overall game sense positioned her as a crucial player for the Black Ferns during the World Cup in England.

Despite the team’s semifinal exit against Canada, Sorensen-McGee left a lasting impression, finishing as the tournament’s leading try-scorer with 11 tries and accumulating 69 points. “I kind of made a statement there. It was pretty special, and I’m still speechless,” she remarked, expressing her disbelief at her rapid ascent from a schoolgirl to a world-class athlete.

Her success can be attributed to her confidence and adaptability. “It’s just believing in yourself and just having the confidence to know that you’re good enough,” she explained. Sorensen-McGee has become a role model for young athletes, with many aspiring players expressing their admiration for her achievements. Often referred to as “Baby” by her teammates due to her age, she has proven to be remarkably mature for her years.

As 2026 approaches, Sorensen-McGee faces new challenges with a transition to the Black Ferns Sevens. Just nine weeks after the World Cup, she debuted in the SVNS Series, where New Zealand achieved victory in Dubai and finished as runners-up in Cape Town. Her initial agreement with New Zealand Rugby was for sevens, but she has successfully balanced both formats, showcasing her versatility.

Looking ahead, Sorensen-McGee is evaluating her path for the upcoming year. “We’re still trying to figure it out, really, just seeing how I feel with sevens, and if I want to take it bigger or just focus on 15s,” she said. She confirmed her commitment to play for the Blues in the Super Rugby Aupiki and intends to continue representing the Black Ferns, despite scheduling conflicts.

As Sorensen-McGee prepares for the next chapter of her career, she acknowledges the weight of expectations. “I know there’s a lot of expectations on me,” she admitted. Yet, she remains focused on the present, determined to continue her impressive trajectory in the world of rugby. With her remarkable talent and unwavering dedication, it is clear that Braxton Sorensen-McGee is poised for a bright future in the sport.