Sarah Hirini, of Ngāti Kahungunu descent, is one of the most respected players in international rugby. As captain of the Black Ferns Sevens team since 2014, she is renowned for her exceptional leadership, hard work and humility.   

Sarah has led New Zealand to numerous victories, including Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she also served as the flagbearer for the NZ Olympic team. Her impressive achievements include a silver medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, gold and bronze medals at two Commonwealth Games, two Rugby World Cup Sevens titles, and six World Series titles. Additionally, Sarah has won two Rugby World Cup titles with the Black Ferns.   

She is passionate about inspiring young people and advocating for women's rugby and sports. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Māori studies and sport science, a pilot's license and is a player representative on the NZ Rugby Players Association Board and International Rugby Players Council.   

In 2019, she was appointed a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her service to rugby. Recently, Sarah was named a semi-finalist in the 2025 Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards.