Documentary Celebrates Women’s Rugby in Taranaki
Why this is here: The documentary includes footage of a Taranaki girls’ rugby tournament created in honor of Black Ferns sevens legend Michaela Brake, emphasizing the importance of role models in the sport.
A new documentary, No Tears on the Field, profiles women’s rugby teams in the Taranaki region of New Zealand. The film follows four teams through the 2024 season, highlighting the players and their families. Director Lisa Burd’s film explores the importance of community within the sport.
The documentary features Kate Thomson, a farmer who balances rugby training with her work. It also showcases Atalya Fakavamoeanga, a single mother who joined a team for childcare and to address post-natal depression. Coach Tami expresses her desire for her team to defeat a local boys’ team.
The film connects the current players to the history of women’s rugby in Taranaki. Vicky Dombroski, who started a women’s team in 1988, later became a Black Ferns coach. Her teammate, Cherry Blyde, went on to play for the national team, and her daughter Michaela Brake became an Olympic medalist.