UC has the backs of the new South Island Women’s rugby team
Women’s rugby in New Zealand will take another leap forward in 2022, when Super Rugby Aupiki takes place over four weekends in March. The University of Canterbury is proud to support the combined South Island team, which will represent the whole of Te Waka o Aoraki, specifically the Crusaders and Highlanders regions.
UC student and Matatū player Grace Brooker (left) with UC Kaihautū Taunaki Tangata Director – Equity and Business Management, Rīpeka Tamanui-Hurunui.
University of Canterbury Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey says: “The University of Canterbury is committed to gender equity and social inclusion, and we are proud to support South Island wāhine competing under the Super Rugby banner. It is pleasing to see nearly a quarter of Matatū contracted so far are UC-educated wāhine, paving the way for future generations.”
UC student Grace Brooker is in her third year of studying towards a Bachelor of Sport Coaching Degree and is one of the first contracted players in the team.
Matatū is an instructive command to remain steadfast with head held high, alert, and ready to take on any and every challenge head on. The term Matatū has, in recent years, become synonymous with Aoraki, the highest peak in the South Island. It speaks to the mana he holds as the enduring watchful guardian of all those who reside in Te Waka o Aoraki (South Island.)
The name, colours and Tohu (logo) design were created by local artist and designer Morgan Mathews-Hale, and the work was completed in partnership with Te Whaka Ako Limited.