Renowned as one of the best women’s players the game has seen, Hirini fought against the clock to be ready for selection and this series gives an exclusive insight into her journey.
Episode one premieres Friday 21 June (6.30PM NZST) on NZR+ and youtube, titled ‘Gossie’ it sets the scene in introducing Hirini the athlete, and person. Black Ferns Sevens greats Portia Woodman-Wickliffe and Kelly Brazier along with coach Cory Sweeney discuss the impact Hirini has had on the team before we rewind to the start of the 2024 season.
In the episode Hirini reflects on a strong pre-season, “Start of the 2024 season was great. I felt hungry to give and determined to start the Olympic season higher than I usually would. I felt I was really in shape, was hitting some PBs (personal bests).”
It was at the opening tournament of the season, in Dubai, when Hirini went down; “I just heard a pop, I haven’t had a lot of injuries and I thought my leg had broken in half, it was painful, and I knew it was my knee.”
“I had an MRI at the hospital, and it confirmed the worst. The doctor said it was a complete ACL tear and I just cried, I bawled, couldn’t believe it.”
Hirini was farewelled by the team with an emotional haka as she returned to New Zealand for surgery.
The four-part series follows Hirini’s progress after surgery as she worked with specialists from around the world to aid her recovery with the ultimate goal of taking the field at the Olympics.
Sarah Hirini: Relentless will continue to follow the journey as Hirini prepares for the Olympics and takes the field in Paris, with episodes being released over the next three months. To watch the series, fans can stream free on NZR+ or YouTube.