Breakout Star Braxton Sorensen-McGee Shines in 2025 Rugby Season

New Zealand rugby’s Braxton Sorensen-McGee has had a remarkable rise in 2025, achieving numerous accolades while navigating unexpected career changes. Just over a year ago, the 19-year-old was focused on her studies at Auckland Girls’ Grammar School, with aspirations to become an early childhood teacher. “I kind of wanted to study,” Sorensen-McGee shared, reflecting on her stunning year with the Sunday Star-Times.

In early 2025, Sorensen-McGee planned to participate in the Super Rugby Aupiki with the Blues and pursue her education later in the year. However, her trajectory changed dramatically when she received a call-up to the Black Ferns, taking her career in an entirely different direction. Sorensen-McGee’s achievements this season are nothing short of extraordinary, including being named the World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year, Junior Māori Sportswoman of the Year, Black Ferns Player of the Year, and New Zealand Rugby Age-Grade Player of the Year.

From School Exams to World Stage

Reflecting on her rapid ascent, Sorensen-McGee admitted, “It’s been pretty unreal.” Having begun her rugby journey only in her first year of high school in 2020, she quickly made her mark in the sport. Playing for Auckland in the Farah Palmer Cup, she showcased her talent before breaking onto the international scene.

Her breakthrough season included a stunning performance in the Super Rugby Aupiki final, where she scored a match-winning long-range try against Matatū. Just five days later, she continued her impressive form by scoring two tries in the Super Rugby Champions final against the Waratahs. This string of successes led to her selection for the Black Ferns training camp ahead of the Pacific Four Series.

World Cup Glory and Continued Success

Making her debut with the Black Ferns, Sorensen-McGee scored two tries in a convincing win against the Wallaroos in Newcastle. Displaying her exceptional skills, she was not only included in the squad for the 2025 World Cup in England but also became a key player throughout the tournament. Despite the Black Ferns’ semifinal exit against Canada, she left an indelible mark by finishing as both the tournament’s leading try-scorer with 11 tries and the top points-scorer with 69 points.

“I obviously wasn’t planning to do any of that… but I kind of made a statement there. It was pretty special, and I’m still speechless,” said Sorensen-McGee.

As she reflects on her journey, Sorensen-McGee attributes her success to a strong belief in herself and the support from her coaches, particularly Willie Walker, who played a significant role during her time with the Blues. “It’s just believing in yourself and just having the confidence to know that you’re good enough,” she said.

With her remarkable achievements in the 15-player format, Sorensen-McGee recently transitioned to the Black Ferns Sevens team. Just nine weeks after her World Cup experience, she made her debut in the SVNS Series, contributing to New Zealand’s success in Dubai and a runner-up finish in Cape Town. This transition was part of a hybrid contract she signed with New Zealand Rugby, allowing her to play both formats of the game.

Looking ahead to 2026, Sorensen-McGee plans to continue her involvement with the Blues while also competing with the Black Ferns. The changing schedule for Super Rugby Aupiki means she has a busy year ahead, balancing both sevens and 15s rugby. “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 explained.

As she prepares for another competitive year, Sorensen-McGee is aware of the expectations that come with her rising star status. “I know there’s a lot of expectations on me,” she stated. “To be honest, I don’t really think about it that much. Just stay in the present, whatever happened in the past happened.”

With a wealth of talent and determination, Braxton Sorensen-McGee is poised to leave an even greater impact on the rugby world, inspiring young athletes everywhere to pursue their dreams.