New Plymouth-born rugby union convert Tiana Davison won a Kiwi Ferns call-up for the 2023 Pacific Championships after helping Newcastle Knights to NRLW premiership glory – and won another grand final 12 months later after switching clubs.
A product of the Clifton Rugby Club who excelled at rugby sevens, Davison played for Manawatu (2019) and Taranaki Whio (2020) in the Farah Palmer Cup.
The 21-year-old switched codes with the Knights in 2022, coming off the bench in two regular-season matches for the eventual champs, before forging a more permanent spot as an interchange forward in 2023. Davison scored a try in the Knights’ semi-final win over the Broncos and featured off the pine in the thrilling grand final victory over the Titans.
Davison made her Test debut in the Kiwi Ferns’ 28-10 win over Tonga – starring with 14 runs for 149 metres and 20 tackles off the bench – before playing another solid interchange role (nine runs for 60 metres, 12 tackles) in the triumph defeat of Australia in Melbourne.
Joining Sydney Roosters in 2024, Davison became a two-time NRLW grand final winner after cementing the No.13 jersey. She averaged 20 tackles and 83 metres a game to retain a Kiwi Ferns spot for the Pacific Championships. Davison made a strong 22-minute contribution off the bench in the opening clash with Australia – chalking up 75 metres and 17 tackles – but was 18th player for the final loss to the Jillaroos..
