Women Lifting Women: Inclusivity and The Wāhine behind Matatū

Inspiring inclusivity is the theme for 2024 International Women’s Day, and at Matatū this comes to the squad as naturally as breathing. 

Speaking to some of the key women responsible for building Matatū from the ground up, the overarching theme is constantly: No matter who you are or where you’re from, you are accepted purely for being yourself.  

“For people to thrive, they’ve got to be able to be themselves,” said Jessie Hansen, the team’s Mental Skills coach.  

Sarah Munro, Matatū General Manager, said “you can bring your full self to Matatu”. 

“You can feel confident and comfortable that you’re in an environment where people will accept you,” Munro said. 

So how does this come so easily to the women behind the scenes of Matatū? Acknowledging and honouring differences and acceptance no matter your story or background.  

Anika Tiplady, Team Doctor, said “everyone is welcome, everyone”. 

“No matter who they are, what their background is, what their value sets are,” Tiplady said. 

Hansen said acceptance and the embrace of individuality was key to their culture. 

“We’re really lucky to have some leaders who are their weird, unique selves,” said Hansen. 

“We talk about that, and we celebrate differences.” 

Lauren Cournane, Team Manager, felt that inclusivity first hand. She came on board with the team in 2023.  

“This team is out the gate for being welcoming,” said Cournane. 

“Being a newbie, I was welcomed straight away and made to feel part of the family.” 

Developing and managing a Super Rugby team obviously comes with challenges. Munro and Cournane both balance motherhood with their roles – something that’s always been embraced bu the squad alongside them.  

“It’s really important for me that I can be both – a good mother and be a really good person at what I do in this role,” said Munro. 

“I bring my children here a lot, and they’re accepted with the players and management.”  

That mentality shows in her own management by assisting Cournane with her work – home life balance, organising an intern to assist Cournane in her role.  

“I feel welcome as a mum,” said Cournane. 

“I’m still commuting back to my family, and the ability to do that is huge.” 

Inspiring inclusivity isn’t just a theme for these wahine – they live and breathe it every day. It’s part of who they are as individuals and as a squad. 

It’s their hope the Matatū colours and tohu represent inclusion and acceptance.  

“Any girl in the South Island can look at that symbol and think: that’s the team I want to play for, I know that represents who I am and where I want to go,” Munro said.