Ardie Savea Claims Historic Third Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Award as New Zealand Rugby Celebrates Rising Stars
A new generation of talent is emerging in New Zealand rugby, but Ardie Savea remains a dominant force. The celebrated All Blacks player secured the prestigious Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial award for a third time in his career – in 2019, 2023, and now 2025 – solidifying his position as one of the most influential figures in the sport.
The annual awards ceremony, held recently, underscored a period of significant achievement for Kiwi rugby, recognizing both established stars and burgeoning talent across all levels of the game. Savea’s victory came after a remarkable season where he reached a milestone of 100 test appearances for the All Blacks, showcasing his prowess both internationally and in Super Rugby Pacific with Moana Pasifika. He prevailed over a competitive field including Fabian Holland, Cam Roigard, and Quinn Tupea.
A New Wave of Female Rugby Excellence
The ceremony also highlighted the growing impact of female players within New Zealand rugby. Braxton Sorensen-McGee, already recognized as World Rugby’s Newcomer of the Year, was honored with both the Black Ferns Player of the Year and Age Group Player of the Year awards. This double recognition signals a bright future for the young athlete.
Alongside Sorensen-McGee, the legendary Portia Woodman-Wickliffe received two key honors, including the Tom French Memorial, awarded to the country’s top Maori player. Her continued success exemplifies the depth of talent within the Black Ferns program.
Black Ferns Sevens and Coach Cory Sweeney Continue Dominance
The Black Ferns Sevens team reaffirmed their status as a global powerhouse, earning the Team of the Year award for the second consecutive year. Their head coach, Cory Sweeney, reached a historic milestone, securing his sixth Coach of the Year award – establishing him as the most decorated coach in the category’s history.
The sevens format also saw recognition for Jorja Miller, the world tour player of the year, and Tone Of Shiu, the newly appointed captain of the All Blacks Sevens.
Honoring Legacy and Cultural Integration
The evening included poignant tributes, notably the Steinlager Salver awarded to the memory of Luke Crawford, a pivotal figure in integrating te reo and Maori culture into New Zealand rugby. His dedication to inclusivity and cultural understanding was deeply felt throughout the rugby community.
Provincial awards also recognized the contributions of champion coaches Rob Penney (Crusaders) and Willie Walker (Blues), alongside long-serving players like Sam Whitelock and “The Elders” for their dedication to the NZRPA.
A Sport Rooted in Community and Excellence
As outgoing CEO Mark Robinson noted, the awards ceremony showcased the core values of rugby in New Zealand. “It’s a sport where the world’s elite, young talent, and the community base that sustains the country’s oval identity coexist,” he stated. This sentiment encapsulates the enduring spirit of rugby in New Zealand, a blend of world-class athleticism and deep-rooted community connection.
