School: Westlake Girls 
Club: Silverdale
Position: Halfback
Heritage: Niuean

Hi, my name is Sofia Hipa, and I am 16 years old. I am very grateful for the opportunity that has been presented for me to be able to travel internationally for the sport I love!

I have been playing contact sports for the last 7 years, but have been playing any sport with an oval ball for 12. My junior club is Silverdale Rugby Club. For the last 3 years, I have been playing rugby league for Richmond Rovers. I think this opportunity is a great way for me to get back into rugby union, as it is what made me love contact sport in the first place.

I was lucky enough to have won the U16s grade last year in league, and was then chosen to play at nationals in September 2025 for the Akarana Falcons. I hope this experience will allow me to create new memories and friends, as well as grow my skills and knowledge about rugby union.