Jorja Miller extends New Zealand Rugby contract through 2029
Jorja Miller has extended her contract with New Zealand Rugby until 2029, committing to both the Sevens and fifteens formats of the sport. At 22 years old, Miller is an Olympic gold medallist, a two-time SVNS Series champion, and has been named World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year twice. She also holds the distinction of being the youngest recipient of the Kelvin R. Tremain Memorial Player of the Year award since Jonah Lomu.
Miller expressed her continued motivation, stating she feels she is still developing and has not yet reached her full potential. She aims to improve as a teammate and a leader, with a goal to “change the game” in rugby. Her primary commitment is to the Black Ferns Sevens, focusing on securing another Olympic gold medal. She also looks forward to inspiring and influencing her team to achieve new milestones.
Commitment to the Black Ferns Sevens and Future Goals
Miller’s decision to re-sign beyond the 2028 Olympics highlights her long-term aspirations in the sport. She stated that she has much more to contribute to the jersey and the legacy of New Zealand Rugby. Her daily focus is on winning the next Olympic gold medal with the Black Ferns Sevens, aiming to push the team to unprecedented achievements.
Beyond the Olympics, Miller also anticipates the upcoming British & Irish Lions tour to New Zealand. She acknowledged the excitement of playing at home during such a historic women’s fixture, though she remains uncertain about her specific role at this stage.
Miller’s career statistics with the Black Ferns Sevens include 111 tries in 118 appearances. She has also played seven Tests for the Black Ferns in fifteens, establishing herself as a key figure in women’s rugby.
Impact and Recognition
Cory Sweeney, Head Coach of the Black Ferns Sevens, noted Miller’s significant growth as a leader, both on and off the field, despite her young age. He highlighted her value to the team beyond just scoring tries, anticipating that she is entering her prime and expressing delight at her commitment for an additional two years.
Steve Lancaster, Chief Executive of New Zealand Rugby, praised Miller as an ambassador for the sport in New Zealand. He emphasised her ability to inspire young boys and girls to play rugby, citing her journey from Timaru to becoming a top player globally and in New Zealand in 2024 as a testament to her talent, commitment, and loyalty. Lancaster looks forward to her continued contributions in the coming years.
Hannah Porter, New Zealand Rugby Sevens High-Performance lead, commented on Miller’s impact on women’s rugby, setting a high standard early in her career. Porter believes Miller is just beginning, with more significant achievements expected in the black jersey during an expanding period for the women’s rugby calendar.
Miller’s origins in Timaru, where she started as a highland dancer, are a source of pride for her. She moved to Christchurch Girls High School to pursue her rugby dream, gaining national attention at the Condor Sevens tournament in 2019. During that tournament, while still in Year 11, she scored a game-winning try in extra time of the semi-final and four tries in the final. She views her small-town background as proof that success in rugby is accessible regardless of one’s origins, attributing her current position to the opportunities and support received throughout her schooling.
Miller’s commitment to New Zealand Rugby is set to continue until the end of 2029.
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Source: rugbypass.com
