MIKAELE TU’U WINS NIB BLUES PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Fresh from their Sky Super Rugby Aupiki three-peat, the nib Blues celebrated another memorable season at the 2026 nib Blues Awards.

Powerhouse forward Liana Mikaele-Tu'u took home the club’s highest individual honour, winning nib Blues Player of the Year.

Mikaele-Tu'u capped off an outstanding campaign by also being named the Barfoot & Thompson Forward of the Year. Her consistent performances, physical presence and leadership throughout the season made her a standout performer and a deserving recipient.

The awards evening recognised excellence both on and off the field, celebrating players and staff who have made significant contributions to the nib Blues throughout the 2026 season.

Emerging star Amarante Sititi was recognised with the Komatsu Rookie of the Year award after an impressive debut season, while the 2Degrees Back of the Year honour was shared by Sylvia Brunt and Tara Turner following outstanding campaigns.

Assistant coach Charmaine McMenamin received the Fable Community Award in recognition of her commitment to making a positive impact beyond rugby, while Cheyenne Tuli-Fale was voted LEGO Team Member of the Year for her selfless contribution to the team environment through an injury affected season.

The fans also had their say, with Braxton Sorensen-McGee earning the Blues Supporters 4Life Fans' Player of the Year award for a second straight season.

The nib Blues head to Sydney this weekend to go up against the NSW Waratahs in the Women’s Super Rugby Champions Final on Saturday night.

2026 nib Blues Awards

nib Blues Player of the Year
Liana Mikaele-Tu’u

Barfoot & Thompson Forward of the Year
Liana Mikaele-Tu’u

2Degrees Back of the Year
Sylvia Brunt and Tara Turner

Komatsu Rookie of the Year
Amarante Sititi

Fable Community Award
Charmaine McMenamin

LEGO Team Member of the Year
Cheyenne Tuli-Fale

Blues Supporters 4Life Fans’ Player of the Year
Braxton Sorensen-McGee