Niall Guthrie of Black Ferns Sevens playing against Papua New Guinea at the New Zealand Sevens in Hamilton 2023.
Photo: PHOTOGRAPH
Former Black Ferns Sevens representative Niall Williams-Guthrie is bringing his talents to the Blues as part of the 30-player squad for the upcoming Aupiki Super Rugby season.
Williams-Guthrie, had a decorated career with the Black Ferns Sevens and is coming off an NRLW season with the Gold Coast Titans.
She said the opportunity to test herself in a different environment, in a city she loves, was too good to miss.
“Anyone who knows me knows I’m a huge fan of this city and the Blues region. I’m an Aucklander and I can’t wait to represent this place with pride and passion,” Williams-Guthrie said.
“I haven’t played a lot of 15s but I’m here to learn and give where I can. I’m not looking to come in and be the next big thing, but I think I can offer some experience and perspectives from mine. I’ve taken on the role of Mumma Bear for the past few years, although I prefer big sis – surely I can still pull that off?!”
The family connection with the Blues runs deep for Williams-Guthrie, her brother Sonny Bill was Blues player #265 in 2017-2019.
“Sonny makes fun of him saying I want to copy him and follow him! But really, he’s a pioneer in putting himself in uncomfortable positions and testing himself. I respect him for that and I tried to do the same thing. – when it’s uncomfortable something valuable and exciting often comes out of it.”
Blues Head Coach, Willie Walker said that it will be extremely important for those young members of the squad that Williams-Guthrie has some experience with them.
“Niall has had a long and successful rugby career, so having her as part of our Nib Blues set-up will be very beneficial, not only on the field but also as a role model for the young players and showing them what the professionalism in the day. – today.”
Williams-Guthrie said she is looking forward to working with the coaching staff and knows she has to “play fun” going into camp.
“The personnel they have on board for this campaign is crazy, both players and management, there is so much talent!”
“I remember one moment from back in the day when Carlos came to my school, Avondale College, when he was with the All Blacks. They were going to get on the bus and I ran over, ripped a sheet from my refill pad and put it through the fence which he graciously signed for me!”
“I really appreciated his win and his speech back in the day for the Blues, he showed what the club is proud of and I’m looking forward to working with Carlos, Willie and the rest of the training group.”
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