Kennedy Simon earns Kings Birthday honours

The Chiefs Rugby Club congratulates Waitomo Chiefs Manawa and Black Ferns captain Kennedy Simon on being named as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to rugby.

Simon was acknowledged for the inspirational leadership of the World Cup Black Ferns squad alongside co-captain Ruahei Demant.

New Zealand Rugby (NZR) CEO Mark Robinson said: "Ruahei and Kennedy’s involvement in the successful Rugby World Cup campaign was significant. While each played different roles, both complemented one another and attributed to the accomplishments of the team.

“Ruahei is a remarkable player who is recognised as a quiet leader but is fiercely determined and committed to delivering the innovative style of rugby the Black Ferns play, whilst leading the team on the field. Kennedy is an intelligent and resilient player, who has persevered to overcome injury. She has an inspirational ‘follow me’ style of leadership that complements Ruahei’s quiet approach.

“This is worthy recognition of their dual contribution to the team’s success to this point. They each are richly deserving of this acknowledgement, and one which both them and their whānau should be proud of."

Also acknowledged for their contributions to rugby was All Blacks and Black Ferns Performance Coach Wayne Smith, Tournament Director of the Rugby World Cup 2021, played in 2022 Michelle Hooper and former All Blacks Captain and NZR President Andrew Leslie.

Smith will fittingly become a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) for his services to rugby; Hooper has been named as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to sport, in particular her role in the tournament’s success; and Leslie as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for services to sport and community.

Congratulations all!