Racing
League
Rugby
Cricket
Golf
Olympics
Football
Netball
Motorsport
Combat Sports
Basketball
Other Sports
Sport Nation
Full Noise by SN
All gas, no Brakes: Black Ferns Sevens star announces comeback
Sport Nation • May 21st, 2026 8:00 am
Michaela Brake | Photo: Photosport
Michaela Brake has confirmed her return to the Black Ferns Sevens after re-signing with New Zealand Rugby through to the end of 2027.
After a stint with the Warriors in the NRLW, the two-time Olympic gold medallist stepped away from the game last year ahead of the birth of her son Harvey in March, with NZR supporting her through maternity leave after she signed her new deal in late 2025.
Brake, 30, said she’s now mentally ready to return to the international environment, although she expects the transition back into rugby to take time.
“The last nine months have been humbling," said Brake.
"Pregnancy has been a journey and it’s made me appreciate women’s bodies a lot more than I did before. The arrival of my son Harvey has been such a joy and I’m now in a place mentally where I want to come back.
“I love this team and this game so much. It’s been incredibly exciting watching the young talent come through. They’ve stepped up massively this year and I’m so proud of them.
"But when I come back, I’m going to be that aunty that’s annoying, and I’m going to be fighting for my position.”
Brake is the leading try-scorer in women’s sevens history with 273 tries and last featured for New Zealand in May 2025, when the Black Ferns Sevens claimed another World Series title in Los Angeles.
“I now call myself a fulltime mum and a part time rugby player because the well-being of my son comes first, so the fact I’m able to still be able to play rugby and come back to the Black Ferns Sevens is such a privilege.
“I’m very lucky to be in a position where I can come back and to have so much support around me who are helping me along the way.”
Black Ferns Sevens coach Cory Sweeney said the squad was excited to welcome Brake back later this year.
“Michaela is hugely important to our group, not only for what she brings to the field but also as a positive influence in the way she carries herself and the intensity, focus and professionalism she brings to training every day.
“She has stayed connected with our group, but we’re looking forward to officially welcoming her back to the environment.”
Sweeney added there was no set timeline for her return to match action.
