Black Ferns
Katelyn Vahaakolo

PLAYER PROFILE

Katelyn Vahaakolo

Outside Back

KEY STATS
UPDATED
AGE
25
HEIGHT
168CM
GAMES
12
POINTS
80
TRIES
16
Black Ferns Next match
BLACK FERNS Pos WEB
Black Ferns
VS
Black Ferns XV Logo
Black Ferns XV

BIOGRAPHY

Black Fern #247

Katelyn Vahaakolo had her first taste of Bunnings Warehouse FPC in 2022 with the Auckland Storm, having previously played rugby league for the Newcastle NRLW side.  

She returned to rugby league at the back end of 2022 to fulfil her dream of playing for the Kiwi Ferns at the Rugby League World Cup in the UK. However, the lure of a Black Ferns jersey saw Vahaakolo return to rugby union where she has quickly learned her craft in the outside backs and midfield for the Blues during their Sky Super Rugby Aupiki campaign. 

In 2023 Vahaakolo was selected for the Black Ferns, and made her debut in Brisbane against the Wallaroos in the opening Pacific Four Series Test. It was of no surprise follow an exceptional debut Black Ferns season the talented winger was later named World Rugby Women’s Rookie of the Year.  In 2024, Vahaakolo had an exceptional Sky Super Rugby Aupiki season receiving Blues Player of the Year. 

Player Stats

Province:
Auckland

Test Debut:
v Australia, 2023

Super Club:
Blues

Katelyn Vahaakolo news

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Black Ferns Haka Goes Viral with 20 Million Views on TikTok
The Black Ferns have captured the world’s attention with a stirring haka ahead of their 79–14 win over the USA at North Harbour Stadium.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe's Magnificent Seven Stuns USA
The Black Ferns have reclaimed the Pacific Four Series title with a fearless and frantic 79-14 thrashing of the USA at North Harbour Stadium.

Blues Seal Consecutive Sky Super Rugby Aupiki Titles at Eden Park
The Blues are the first team to successfully defend the Sky Super Rugby Aupiki title following a pulsating 26-19 victory over Matatū at Eden Park.
Black Ferns Sevens Edged by Australia in Thrilling Final
On Australia Day in Perth, the host nation toppled the Black Ferns Sevens in a blockbuster final. The All Blacks Sevens finished the tournament strongly after a sluggish start.
From XVs to Sevens: Vahaakolo's Quest for Gold
Former Kiwi Fern and Newcastle Knights women's NRL wing Katelyn Vahaakolo, 24, made a significant impact when switching to rugby in 2023 and is now chancing her arm in playing for the Black Ferns Sevens in the SVNS series.
Fan's Tactical Masterclass: How the Black Ferns Play Predictor Was Won
Think predicting rugby is just luck? One fan has proven it's all about strategy, winning not one but two major Play Predictors.
Vahaakolo hattrick powers Black Ferns home against France
The Black Ferns have snapped a three-game losing streak with a resounding 39-14 victory over France at BC Place in Vancouver.
Black Ferns overpower Australia in Pacific Four finale
The Black Ferns have finished the 2024 Pacific Four tournament on a high and wrapped up the Laurie O’Reilly Cup with a 67-19 win over the Wallaroos at North Harbour Stadium.
Black Ferns kick off 2024 in emphatic fashion
A blistering start earned the Black Ferns a 57-5 win in their opening Pacific Four Series international in Hamilton.

Looking back on the Black Ferns 2023 season
The busiest Black Ferns season outside a Rugby World Cup is over with five victories achieved in seven Tests.

Katelyn Vahaakolo named World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year
Katelyn Vahaakolo has been named World Rugby Women’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the year in partnership with Tudor following the Black Ferns loss against England (12-33) in the final round of WXV1 at Go Media Mount Smart Stadium in Auckland this evening.

Black Ferns primed for their opening Test against Australia
An eagerly anticipated return for the Black Ferns is almost over, with the team primed and ready to kick-off their first Test match of the Pacific Four Series and O’Reilly Cup against the Wallaroos.

Katelyn Vahaakolo Videos

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HIGHLIGHTS | Black Ferns v USA | 2025, Pacific Four
There was no shortage of action as the Black Ferns and USA brought the curtain…
HIGHLIGHTS | Black Ferns v France | 2024, WXV 1
The Black Ferns close out their 2024 WXV 1 campaign with a high octane clash…
HIGHLIGHTS | Australia v Black Ferns | 2024 O'Reilly Cup
Catch up on the highlights and big moments from Brisbane as the Black Ferns…
HIGHLIGHTS | Black Ferns v Australia | 2024 Pacific Four
The Pacific Four Series concludes with a pulsating clash between the Black…
HIGHLIGHTS | Black Ferns v Canada | 2024 Pacific Four
Catch up on all the action from Christchurch as the Black Ferns take on Canada…