Monday 13 October

Still riding the high of taking out the NRLW Premiership with the Brisbane Broncos, Ana Fotu has joined the Kiwi Ferns as an assistant coach for their Pacific Championships campaign.

A highly acclaimed coach in the academy space, Fotu stepped into the Assistant Coach role with the Broncos this season, driving improvements in their defensive systems. 

Fotu is glad for the opportunity to be back in New Zealand and to connect with the Kiwi Ferns team and management.

“I moved away from Auckland, my place of birth, over 20 years ago and having the opportunity to return home and reconnect again has me feeling what I’ve seen already – #ItRunsDeep – it’s running real deep for me joining this campaign. Back to my roots,” said Fotu.

Kiwi Ferns Head Coach Ricky Henry said: “I’m beyond proud to see one of our own, Ana, coaching at the NRLW level – her journey has been truly inspiring to watch! She is a coach on the rise and someone who can take the next step.”

Before this whirlwind season with the Broncos NRLW team, Fotu was the Head Coach of the Broncos Academy, influencing the women’s game across multiple levels. She has also coached many Queensland age-grade teams to success, as well as holding roles as an NRL Game Development Officer, Coach Developer and volunteering her time with the community game.

Her relentless work developing women’s rugby league in Queensland earned her the Female Contribution to the Game Award in 2023.

The Kiwi Ferns kick off their Pacific Championships campaign this Sunday at Go Media Stadium against Fetu Samoa.

Kiwi Ferns Coaching Group

Head Coach: Ricky Henry

Assistant Coaches: Andrew Auimatagi, David Faiumu, Ana Fotu